The question
I can't seem to find any at-home exercises to battle inner-leg flab. Can you please help?
The answer
First, make sure you are doing variations of squats, lunges, deadlifts and single-leg balance exercises. Although these are not purely inner thigh isolation exercises, those muscles have to work as stabilizers.
As a bonus, complex exercises such as squats and lunges help build lean muscle mass, which will help boost your metabolism.
For inner-thigh isolation, try the exercise outlined below. The only piece of equipment you will need is a small inflatable squishy ball, about the size of a cantaloupe. You can get one at a dollar store, or try a pillow.
Squishy ball crunch and leg lower
Lie on your back with your hands by your ears and your knees up in the air, bent at a 90 degree angle. The ball should be between your knees. Come up into a curl as you simultaneously squeeze the ball. Repeat 10 times.
Make sure you are not just pushing the ball in with your knees. Rather, use the muscles in your inner thighs to squeeze the ball.
Advanced version
If you have a strong core and a healthy back, try to hold yourself up in the crunch position at the end of your 10 repetitions. Keep the position of your lower back stable as you lower and lift your legs toward the ground 10 times.
Trainer's tip
Incorporate cardiovascular exercise that involves side to side motion. For example: rollerblading, skating or team sports that involve multidirectional running, acceleration and deceleration such as soccer or ultimate Frisbee.
Send certified personal trainer Kathleen Trotter your questions at trainer@globeandmail.com . She will answer select questions, which could appear in The Globe and Mail and/or on The Globe and Mail web site. Your name will not be published if your question is chosen.
Read more Q&As from Kathleen Trotter
Click here to see Q&As from all of our health experts.
The content provided in The Globe and Mail's Ask a Health Expert centre is for information purposes only and is neither intended to be relied upon nor to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.