Expert: Daphne E Brown MS CPRP - 7/2/2007

Question
Hi Daphne

Hi, I am 26 years old female, healthy, 154cm and 46kg. I am small in size (upper body) but my lower body is quite big. I want to tone my thigh, butt and calves using a gym ball which is a gift from my friend.

Due to work commitments, I have not been exercising for a long time. I also have cellulites in my thigh, butt and calves.

Can you recommend some exercises to tone my lower body using a gym ball?


Answer
Hi Jessica!
This is a great question and I am glad that you have decided to commit to use the ball that your friend must have really thought a lot of you to get.  A gym ball is GREAT and with a little practice, you will master using it without worrying about falling off.  

Here is a very good website that has progressive level exercises that are mostly for the ball.  I recommend all the exercises shown, with and without the ball.  Just follow the directions and suggestions in the article.

http://exercise.about.com/library/bllowerbodyprogression.htm

Hope this helps you get started.  If you need a little help, go to your local gym and ask a trainer to watch your form and execution.  I strongly suggest that you also try to fit some cardio into your workout routine, too..

Here is a site that gives a pretty good explanation of cellulite and some possible solutions

http://www.realsolutionsmag.com/ezine/35/issue35e.asp

I hope this helps.  Once you get started, don't over do it and commit to 2-3 times a week at first.  Give yourself 2-3 months of consistency (if you fall off your routine, don't sulk--just start back up asap) and you'll be so proud of the way your body will start changing.

TAKE CARE!!!!  Daphne