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Squats for the Buns, Hips and Thighs Part 2

By , About.com Guide

Updated January 04, 2012

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Plie Squat with an Exercise Ball
Plie Ball Squat Paige Waehner
Regular Plie Squats are a great way to target the inner thighs along with the hips and glutes. In this version, an exercise ball is used to add back support which may give you just what you need to go a little lower. Always work with your own flexibility and only go down as low as you comfortably can.
  1. Stand with feet wide, toes out at about a 45-degree angle and place an exercise ball behind your lower back for support.
  2. If you choose to hold weights, you can keep them at your sides or prop them on the hips.
  3. Bend the knees and lower into a squat, keeping the knees in line with the toes.
  4. Lower down as far as your flexibility allows and push into the heels to go back to starting position.
  5. Do 1-3 sets of 10-16 reps.

Tips:

  • Keep your knees in line with your toes. If your knees want to angle inward, adjust the angle of your toes to a more comfortable place.
  • Press through the heel of you foot as you push up from the lunge to engage your inner thighs.
  • Avoid letting the knee bend over the toe.

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