[beaner]

Hello, I'm a new member here. 22/F. I recently graduated from Nursing school and while in my last semester I put on 20 lbs because of stress and what not. I saw myself gaining weight in the middle of the semester so i decided to start running on the treadmill and using the gazelle we had. Well I soon noticed that but thighs and butt were getting HUGE, like to the point where I could not even put on my clothes that I had been wearing previously. I am pear/spoon shaped anyway so I tend to carry more weight there but geeeze. I have lost some weight since graduationg but only like 5-7lbs by just changing my diet. I really want to exercise and was wondering if any of you or Ian had any suggestions for me. I am almost half scared to exercise because I do not want to get a bigger butt or thighs. I would like to loose a little more weight and tone up but have not had much success. Also currently I am 5'5 and weigh 135. Thanks

[caSTARR]

Nutrition will play a big role in getting the thighs and butt smaller. But you can also do squats, lunges, and step-ups. I know it may seem like doing these exercises will make you bigger, but they won't; they will slim you down and give you definition. Try 3 sets of each exercise 12-15 reps (start out using NO weight and then gradually add 3lbs, 5lbs, then 10lbs).

You can also try pilates or yoga. These exercises will give you a lean figure.

Also, drink lots of water

Hope this helps!!

[Ian]

caStarr's suggestions are valid, but the best results can be had from
good nutrition every day and breaking a sweat when doing cardio 3-5
times a week.

[gYmGuRl]

Cardio should be your main focus and that will also tone your legs and butt without building bulk. Focus on your upper body with free weights.

[BouBou]

What may have happened is that you have built a bit of muscle under the layers of fat in your butt and thighs. It may be helpful to include some form of aerobic training in your work out routine and focus on other muscles groups in your training.

I love soccer and track and if you ever really look at the playersyou will notice that they have some seriously thick thighs and charmain booties.

BouBou

[Emma]

Hey,
I've started working out recently, and for the first time in my life I'm enjoying exercise!! I'm also working on the huge bum/thighs problem... but I find that I build calf muscle REALLY easily. Working out therefore results in me having enormous calfs, does anyone know how I can work out and avoid doing this? I go to pilates once a week and the gym 3 times a week.

E x