Spot Reducing & Increasing / Question
Published: June 18, 2001
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I'm a 15 year old girl and weigh 121 lbs. At 5'6". I'm not really concerned about my weight because (I think) I am maintaining a healthy weight (Am I right in this?). The thing that concerns me is the shape of my legs. I know this sounds stupid and vain, but I just do not like my inner thighs. They are thick and just disgusting. Do you know of any certain simple exercises I can do at home which can help me?
Signed: Anxious Vanity -Thick Inner Thighs
Dear Anxious Vanity -Thick Inner Thighs,
Unfortunately there is no one particular exercise that will make your inner thighs smaller compared to another part of your body. The inner thighs just happen to be the place you store muscle and fat. Other people may store fat and muscle in the gut, hips or buttocks.
Although you cannot spot reduce, you can select workouts that use muscles in the problem area. Walking, cycling and rollerblading are all good exercises that you can do at anytime. If you join a gym, there are professionals on staff who can advise you on what equipment will help you with your problem area.
You are right in noting that your weight is healthy! Do not try the latest diet or skipping meals in the hopes it will reduces the size of your thighs. You already are maintaining a healthy weight and simply need to continue to eat healthy. Remember your body is structured according to your genetic blue print. No matter how much you diet or exercise you cannot change that blue print.
If you would like more information on this topic, see TeenHealthFX's response to Spot Reducer - Thighs, Butt & Legs.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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