“Saddle bags” is a colloquial term used to describe the appearance of excess fat and skin on the outer thigh area. While there is no specific exercise that targets this area, certain exercises can help to tone and strengthen the muscles in the thigh and hips, which can improve the appearance of saddle bags.
Exercises
Here are some exercises that can help to tone and strengthen the muscles in the thigh and hips:
• Squats: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your toes pointing forward. Lower your body as if you were sitting back into a chair, keeping your weight in your heels. Push back up to the starting position.
• Lunges: Step forward with one foot, lowering your body until your thigh is parallel to the ground. Push back up to the starting position and repeat with the opposite leg
• Leg press: Sit in a leg press machine with your feet flat on the foot plate. Push the plate away from your body using your legs, and then slowly release.
• Step-ups: Step up onto a bench or step with one foot, and then step back down with the same foot. Repeat with the opposite foot.
• Clamshells: Lie on your side with your legs bent at a 90-degree angle. Slowly lift your top knee as high as you can without moving your pelvis, and then lower it back down.
• Donkey kicks: Start on all fours, with your hands and knees on the floor, and your hands directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. Keep your right knee bent, and lift your right foot towards the ceiling, squeezing your glutes as you lift. Hold the contraction at the top for a moment and then lower your right foot back to the starting position. Repeat the movement for the desired number of reps.
It’s also important to note that while exercises can help to tone and strengthen the muscles in the thigh and hips, they will not necessarily lead to significant reduction of fat on the area. To lose fat on specific areas, it’s important to maintain a healthy diet and engage in regular cardiovascular exercise. Additionally, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or a certified personal trainer to make sure you’re performing exercises safely and effectively.
If you have any questions regarding this topic, please don’t hesitate to get in touch either via email info@livewellhealth.co.uk oor give us a call on 030 043 2501.
