Best exercises for thighs / reduce my quads?

anoette

I have HUGE quads. Literally, huge. They stick out almost as far as my stomach and are mostly muscle. I -really- want to get them slimmed down! Most of the fat on my thighs seems to be on the inside of them and the back (my bum is fairly toned, but more can't hurt!) so I'd love to know the best exercises to target there

wellbert

If you are truly at a sub 16% bodyfat level, where your legs are 'mostly muscle' pretty much you're looking at atrophy (not moving them at all for long periods of time). I think you might be surprised how much adipose is there - unless they look all jagged and veiny that is.

anoette

I'm definitely not at 16% body fat! It's not my entire legs, I just assumed it was muscle on my quads since I can't pinch it (I'm a history student who never paid attention to biology!) so I have no idea what adipose is! Still, some advice might be nice

wellbert

Adipose is a really nice way to say fat, hehe
But there's no spot reduction. I mean, you can strengthen your legs.
Fat will go in areas when it's ready to go (Women typically lose fat in the thigh/lower stomach area slower.)

Continuing to eat at a deficit will allow you to continue to lose weight.


For general well being, you should consider squats, lunges, etc. Body weight until you're comfortable, then add weight - but it won't make your legs smaller.


Adding a picture might help.

AnvilHead

If they don't look like this, they're not "all muscle":




If they do, then you've just got genetically large legs and there isn't much you can do about it other than allowing your leg muscles to atrophy (a few months in a wheelchair should take care of it).