If you're contemplating starting a weight loss routine, or are already doing one: Adding some simple leg toning exercises to what you're doing everyday can significantly speed up how fast you, and people around you notice the results of your efforts. Almost all exercises done to tone the legs also tone the butt (gluteus-maximus), hips and core (abs, lower back, obliques, etc.)
Lying Leg Raises
Lying leg raise are the most effective leg toning exercises you can do without machines. They tone deep into your legs, hips, butt and core. You can lie either on your side, or flat on your back, while raising one of your legs 1 - 2 feet off the ground and holding for a five-count. Doing lying leg raises flat on your back will target your front leg muscles and core; while lying on your side will target inner/outer leg muscles -- along with your butt, hips and core.
Standing Squat thrusts
This exercise will target your entire legs and core. Stand with your legs shoulder-width apart, with your arms crossed on your chest (or placed on your hips) and bend your legs with your back straight. You can lower your body as much as you feel comfortable with, just make sure not to over-extend your knees (watch your knees and make sure they don't extend past the tips of your toes).
Leg Extensions & Leg Curls
This exercise works and tones the entire legs, hips, butt, and core (remember all leg exercises provide these benefits). These are both awesome leg toning exercises, the only disadvantage to the the above exercises is that you will need an extension/curl machine at home, or a gym membership to perform them. Follow the directions provided on the machine and don't focus on using heavy weights, but rather good form along with getting an intense burn out of the exercise.
Lying Leg Raises
Lying leg raise are the most effective leg toning exercises you can do without machines. They tone deep into your legs, hips, butt and core. You can lie either on your side, or flat on your back, while raising one of your legs 1 - 2 feet off the ground and holding for a five-count. Doing lying leg raises flat on your back will target your front leg muscles and core; while lying on your side will target inner/outer leg muscles -- along with your butt, hips and core.
Standing Squat thrusts
This exercise will target your entire legs and core. Stand with your legs shoulder-width apart, with your arms crossed on your chest (or placed on your hips) and bend your legs with your back straight. You can lower your body as much as you feel comfortable with, just make sure not to over-extend your knees (watch your knees and make sure they don't extend past the tips of your toes).
Leg Extensions & Leg Curls
This exercise works and tones the entire legs, hips, butt, and core (remember all leg exercises provide these benefits). These are both awesome leg toning exercises, the only disadvantage to the the above exercises is that you will need an extension/curl machine at home, or a gym membership to perform them. Follow the directions provided on the machine and don't focus on using heavy weights, but rather good form along with getting an intense burn out of the exercise.