Thigh exercies which combine activities such as brisk walking and cycling used in combination with squats and weights, are probably the most effective thigh exercises which can be carried out in the gym or a home.

Brisk walking, with relatively large strides which is fast enough to get the arms pumping and increase the heart rate is a great way to help tone thigh muscles and trim off excess fat. Cycling either on the road or on a cycling machine is also an effective way to tone thighs.

Both of these thigh exercises should begin on flattish ground or on a program setting which does not include steep gradients and be of short duration in order not to strain muscles and reduce the risk of injury. Over a few days or weeks, depending on the overall fitness of the person, both the gradient and duration can be increased to further strengthen and develop thigh muscles.

Squats can be carried out following all precautions such as keeping the back straight and not trying to squat too low to or carry out too many to begin with. Wall squats are ideal for toning thighs. Lunges are also beneficial and will help to firm thigh muscles. Squats, lunges and brisk walking or cycling will help tone thigh muscles without the expense of a gym.

In the gym thigh exercises will be part of circuit training with specific machines which are used to raise and lower the legs with the weights on the machines being gradually increased. Any good gym will demonstrate how to use the machines safely and to your best advantage which will result in trimmed and fabulous thighs as well as improving general health and fitness and reducing the risk of injury.

Thigh exercises for those who are already fit further extensions of these , such duration and increase in weights can be built up and worked on over time. As with any form of exercise those who have a medical condition or past injury should seek professional advice before beginning a thigh exercise program.