Expert: Kim Farmer - 9/5/2009

Question
Over the last year I've gone from 250 to 175 lbs which has left disgusting loose skin which exercise is not helping. My main areas of trouble are my upper thighs and lower abs. I call my leg skin my "pantyhose skin" as I can start at my ankle and gradually pull it up and it "collects" at the top of my leg *GROSS* Because of this and my lower belly skin I am stuck in a 14/16 pants but they are big everywhere else..... I KNOW I could fit in a 12 if not for these issues. If I were rich I'd head off to surgery, but I'm not, so what do I do? Anyone ever fix this problem effectively?

Answer
Hi Amanda-
Thanks for the question.  Unfortunately I don't have good news for you though.  Exercise and strength training will not get rid of loose skin.  The only way that I know to get rid of it is some type of medical procedure.  Many, many people have this problem due to weight loss and pregnancies and simply live with it because most of us aren't rich and can't afford surgery just like you mentioned.

Sorry for the bad news  : ( keep exercising anyway since it will help you tone your muscles and get rid of unwanted fat.

Thanks for the question!

Kim Farmer
ACE-Certified Personal Trainer
ACE-Certified Clinical Exercise Specialist
www.milehighfitness.com