Simple exercises for toned legs
Who doesn't want sexy, toned legs? Regardless of your height or your size, shapely toned legs can make every outfit look better and give you a spring in your step and a boost in your confidence.
And getting toned legs is not impossible. Indeed, these simple exercises are perfect for working the muscles in your legs and, what's more, you don't have to join a gym to do any of them!
Walking
Walking is a fantastic exercise as it tones your legs, bottom, back and stomach all at the same time. What's more, if you wear wrist weights you can work out your arms while you walk to. Aim to walk at a brisk pace for the best results. Some guidelines recommend walking around 10,000 steps a day. On average it takes about 2000 steps to walk a mile so, to meet the guideline recommendation, you'd have to walk around five miles a day. Of course this isn't always feasible, whether because of health issues or time constraints but aiming to walk two or three miles a day should still produce results.
Running
There are plenty of benefits of running. Not only can it help to beat depression and improve your mood it can also help to keep your heart healthy and it can aid weight loss (figures show on average runners burn 1000 calories an hour). And of course, running is a great way of toning the legs. The muscles you use when running mean you can achieve toned, tight thighs, a shapely bottom and defined carves.
Step
The benefits of step aerobics are two-fold. Firstly step aerobics is a cardiovascular exercise which means it increases your heart rate and as such can burn a lot of calories. Secondly, the actual action of stepping onto a block and back to the floor works the muscles in your legs thus producing defined muscles in the calves, thighs and buttocks and leaner, more toned legs.
Squats
Squats are not suitable for everyone. If you have knee problems then they should be avoided but, if they can be done, they are a very effective exercise for toning legs.
With any exercise it is important to know your own body and know when you're pushing yourself too far. Don't over do it, pace yourself and be patient – you will see results as long as you maintain your exercise routine and rest when you need to so as to avoid injury.
