Here’s ‘rub’ on those irritating inner thighs

Q: The part of my body that bothers me the most are my inner thighs. Despite many attempts to lose weight, my thighs still rub together. What am I missing with my workouts to help eliminate the dreaded “rub” of my thighs?

A: Genetics, lifestyle choices, body composition and activity level all play a role in the size, strength and appearance of your inner thighs. Tackling inner thigh “rub” by working on factors you can control, such as exercise, is a great place to start.

These are three exercises you can add to your current program to help strengthen the muscles of your inner thighs.

1. Squats are great for your legs. Start with your feet and knees facing forward and feet shoulder-width apart. Bend your knees and sit your weight on your heels as you lower toward the ground. (Do not go down lower than 90 degrees at your knees.) Return to standing position, keeping your weight on your heels and feet and knees forward.

2. Plie squats are similar to the squats mentioned above; however, your foot position is turned out. Begin with your feet slightly wider than shoulder width and turn your feet to point outward. Line your knees up with your feet, and lower your body toward the ground. Keep your knees and feet turned and upper body upright (not bending forward) until your knees reach 90 degrees. Pressing through your heels, return to the standing position.

3. Another great exercise is side lunges, which are great for all of the muscles of your leg. Start with your legs wider than shoulder-width apart, with your feet facing forward. Keeping your feet facing forward, shift your weight to the right by bending your knee forward. Your weight should be on your right heel, and your hip, knee, ankle and foot should all be in alignment while your left leg remains straight. Bend your knee only low enough to maintain control, and then straighten the right leg to standing position. Complete the same movement on the left side.

Complete each of these exercises for 10 to 15 repetitions and one to three sets. After you master these exercises with just your body weight, you can add resistance from either dumbbells or medicine ball. Remember to maintain a strong and aligned upper body while completing these lower-body exercises.

Although there is no guarantee as to just what your body will look like, adding these three exercises to a total body exercise program along with eating properly can help you see overall results.

Always consult a physician before beginning an exercise program. Andrea Renee Wyatt, M.S.S., C.S.C.S., is a certified personal trainer with an extensive background in strength and conditioning as well as therapeutic recreation.