I know you want to reduce "saddlebags" so to do this first determine how many calories that you need on a daily basis to maintain your current body weight with your current activity level. Subtract 20% or 500 calories whichever is higher from this number and start eating that calorie level on a daily basis. You will lose an average of a pound per week assuming the numbers that you determined were accurate. Check with your nutritionist, trainer, doctor etc. for accuracy. When you reach your desired weight determine if you still are unhappy with your appearance. Consult with one of the above to determine if your body fat is at a healthy level and if by all measurements you are considered lean.
When a person generally gets to this lean level all "problem areas" are usually pretty much an afterthought or are no longer a problem. Focus on your intake of calories, practice a sensible fitness program, and make sure you are living a healthy lifestyle and you will find the "saddlebags" are not an issue for very long.
First of all, you cannot target a specific area and reduce fat in that area alone through exercise. You can, however, reduce your overall fat through reduced calories and exercise, which will eventually get rid of that unwanted fat (saddlebags) on the outer thighs.
In the mean time, while you are waiting for the fat in that area to be reduced, you can perform some exercises to tone the muscle hiding beneath that fat! Here are a two of my favorites:
Side walking with bands or tubing- with bands or tubing around your ankles, feet shoulder width apart, knees slightly bent facing forward. Remember to keep head and chest up with belly button pulled in. Step with one foot to the side as far as comfortable, and then bring the other foot along. Be careful to keep the hips square and the upper body with good posture. Take 10-15 steps, the repeat in the other direction so your muscles are balanced!Side lying leg lift- Lay on your side. You can lay with your head all the way to the floor or on your elbow with your hand supporting your head, whichever is more comfortable. Top leg straight, bottom leg slightly bent. Pull your belly button in, and make sure there is a straight line from your chest to your toes. You will want to hold this position throughout the movement to target that muscle. Keeping your knee & toes pointing forward, raise the top leg as high as comfortable, then return to starting position and repeat 10-15 times. Turnover and do the other side!
Continue Learning about Types Of Exercise Programs
Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.