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WHAT'S NEW
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3 thigh-toning exercises
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Pull in the reins on saddlebags.
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By Michele Drake
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 | 2. BOSU or stability ball hip lift with straight leg lift
• Start by kneeling beside the BOSU.
• Rest your right hip on the BOSU, keeping knee bent, and place your hands lightly on top of its surface to stabilize yourself.
• Stretch out your left leg. Your body should form a straight line (not hinged forward from the hip or head.)
• Keep abdominals tight to support your pelvis. With your right knee planted on the ground, come up to a kneeling position to raise your hips and then lift your left leg so your ankle is in line with your hip (no higher!).
• With control, lower your leg down to the ground as you guide your right hip back to rest on the the BOSU.
• Do eight to 10 repetitions on each side to start. Work up to 15 repetitions after two or three weeks.
* To perform this exercise with a stability ball, remain in the kneeling position throughout. |  | 3. Standing abductor raise (inspired by Brad Schoenfeld's The 28-Day Body Shapeover)
• Attach a cuff to a low cable pulley and then secure the cuff to your right ankle, or tie a flexible band around a sturdy object at about ankle height and secure the other end around your ankle. Wear thick socks to cushion the band if you opt for a flexible band instead of a pulley.
• Position yourself so that your left side faces the weight stack or the other end of the band and grasp a sturdy fixture for support.
• Keeping your right leg straight, pull it out to the right, away from the standing leg.
• Contract your bottom and then slowly return your leg along the same path back to the start position.
• When fatigued, repeat on the other side. Repetitions may vary according to the weights you use, but always aim for complete muscle fatigue while holding good form. |
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While toning your outer thighs and buttocks may take some time, your body will benefit from these exercises. Keep at it and you'll fully enjoy your wardrobe with no bulges or bunches to hide.
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