Question:
Need advice on toning hips & thighs. Going to Florida, HELP!

I had open rny Nov, 2001. Started at 237 & I am down to 119, which is where I want to be. However, the back of my thighs & hips look horrible. Just like ripples. Just my excess skin, I suppose. I do not see how I am going to wear shorts this summer & we are going to Florida for 2 weeks. I am so self conscious about this. Is there any particular exercise I need to be doing to get rid of this or is it something I am just gonna have to live with? Thanks in advance...    — Lori M. (posted on February 8, 2003)

February 8, 2003
I do not have an answer but am looking for one also. I started at 226 and am 14 weeks post op and down to 158. Though I still have 35 lbs to go I went shopping today and looked at my inner thighs and they looked awful. I am trying everything.
   — Marie R.

February 8, 2003
The best thing for you is really the machines at a gym, do you belong? I know it can be expensive, so it's not ideal for everyone, but there they have inner and outer leg machines designed specifically for those tough spots many women have on the outside of the legs and hips. (I never see men on these machines!) It's harder at home for legs, where as for arms you can lift weights, legs you can't really. Have you ever tried squats? They really work your quads and you can feel the workout even after the first time. I do caution you though, it can be hard on the knees, so I don't do them b/c I'm 23 and already have inherited knee problems. But my personal trainer said squats are truly one of the best exercises for legs, and most people don't do them. I also ride a bike, which always works my thighs. Goodluck, i hope you find what works for you- and have fun in Florida!
   — Lezlie Y.

February 8, 2003
Maybe one of those thigh masters might work. You know the ones that Suzanne Somers promotes!
   — DRutherford

February 8, 2003
I'm going to have to disagree with the other posters here. I'm sorry, but no amount of exercise is going to "tone" up saggy, ripply skin. Its what we are left with after losing so much weight. Where skin bounces back or not is a result of your age (younger is better), how heavy you were and for how long, genetics, and how fast you lost. I'm afraid the only thing that will get rid of ripples is a thigh lift. Exercise helps to develop the muscle underneath but not the ripply skin covering it.
   — Cindy R.