Achieve leaner legs through consistent daily pilates practice. Here are some thigh-slimming pilates moves recommended by our expert.
Many individuals prioritize sculpting their legs, especially when aiming to reduce body fat. Thighs, in particular, can pose a challenge. Pilates offers a range of exercises to target thigh fat effectively, such as the Pilates side leg series. This sequence typically comprises 5-10 exercises performed while lying on one side of the body. These exercises engage all leg muscles, toning and shaping them.
Unlike traditional standing exercises where gravity adds resistance, the leg series in Pilates focuses solely on toning without increasing muscle size. Our pilates expert, Vesna Jacob, has outlined five simple yet effective pilates exercises for leaner legs. These exercises are executed while lying on one side. There are three variations of this series:
1. Beginners Level:
In the beginners’ version, the lower leg is bent to provide more stability.
2. Intermediate Level:
The intermediate level involves straightening both legs but maintaining them at an angle.
3. Advanced:
Practitioners execute the same exercises while lying straight in a line, with the top arm positioned behind the back for added challenge and stability.
Pilates Leg Sculpting Exercises
You can perform these exercises by adding resistance, such as ankle weights or utilizing a resistance band. This allows you to adjust the difficulty level accordingly. The following Pilates movements are effective for toning thigh muscles and achieving slimmer legs. These include:
1. Front and back kicking movements
- Extend your leg forward with toes pointed.
- Exhale as you kick the leg forward, as if aiming to kick a ball.
- Then, flex the leg backward as far as possible, kicking twice with the heel.
- Repeat this alternating movement 10-15 times.
2. Straight up and down leg movement
- Point the toes and lift the leg upward.
- Lower the leg gradually while keeping the toes flexed.
- This exercise engages all muscles, including the calves.
3. Passe
- Position your foot on the same level as your knee.
- Lift your knee and extend it forward.
- Move your leg up and down to engage your inner thighs.
- Complete 3 repetitions of this exercise, alternating directions.
- You can raise your leg in the air, ensuring to bend your knee and touch your toe to your leg.
4. Little circles
- Rotate your leg in a large circle while maintaining stability in your upper body.
- Perform 5-10 circles on each side.
- Repeat this exercise at least three times to tone your legs.
5. Inner thigh lifting exercise
- Lie down with your legs bent and feet flexed.
- Keep your feet on the ground and lift the lower leg up and down.
- Repeat this movement for 3 repetitions.
These Pilates exercises are effective for sculpting leaner legs. By incorporating these simple movements into your daily routine, you can tone your thighs effectively. For proper guidance and technique, consider seeking assistance from a fitness or Pilates expert.