Did you know that you can use a Pilates ring for more than just a Pilates class? I encourage my private weight-loss clients to keep a few small pieces of exercise equipment stashed behind their couch — including a Pilates ring (available at online retailers).
With ring in hands, you can lie down in front of the couch or even on the couch to do a great inner thigh workout with these 3 exercises:
Squeeze a pilates ring with both legs from this side lying position, and then release as shown here in the starting position.
Brian Ernst/Sun-Times
Side Lying Squeeze
First, lying on your right side, prop your head up with your right hand. Pull your naval in toward your spine, and place the Pilates ring in between the tops of your ankles. Squeeze the ring with both legs from this side lying position, and then release. Repeat this 10 times.
Adding a bridge adds an extra challenge to a pilates ring inner thigh exercise.
Brian Ernst/Sun-Times
Bridge Inner Thigh Squeeze
Now roll onto your back and bend your knees. Press your feet into the ground, and reach your fingertips towards your heels. Open your feet as wide as your hips. Place the Pilates ring in between your upper inner thighs. From here, roll up into a Bridge position. Hold the Bridge position, and then squeeze the ring in and then release. Repeat this 10 times.
A standing “v” squeeze with a Pilates ring will give your thighs a great inner-stretch/workout.
Brian Ernst/Sun-Times
Standing V Squeeze
Finally, stand up and bring your heels together and toes apart. Make the letter V with your feet. Open your knees and place the Pilates ring in between your upper thighs. Place your hands on your hips and pull your naval in towards your spine. Squeeze the ring in and then release. Repeat this 10 times.
Repeat all of these exercises in this order for a total of 3 rounds. That’ll be 30 repetitions of each exercise! Your inner thighs will feel the burn and as a result, they’ll become tighter and more toned over time. Repeat this series every other day for the best results.
Stephanie Mansour wants you to ‘“step up” your fitness regimen. Mansour coaches private clients in weight loss, provides fitness/health/lifestyles advice on national TV shows, and offers her free 21 Day Challenge online. Check out her fitness tips every Thursday in the Well section of the Chicago Sun-Times. And visit her website at stepitupwithsteph.com.
