Thigh Exercises

Does anyone have any good ideas for exercises that really tone the thighs? I have been biking and running, but want to really shape my legs for this up coming summer. Suggestions? Thank You!

Lunges with weights

I agree the thigh and butt area is all about the lunges

Squats and lunges. Get creative with them - when you do a lunge, put your front foot on a bosu ball. Try doing squats while standing on the flat side of the bosu ball (you'll have to jump onto the platform and balance before you start). If you've never done this before, when you go down for a squat, your whole core will shake - you're touching on a bunch of smaller muscles you're not used to working and it will help with stability.

If you're working out on a treadmill, jack up the incline (if it has incline capabilities).

Stairmaster and eliptical will help.

Jump rope will give you more of a full body workout.

step up on a small or medium sized box while holding dumbbells in each hand, or while holding a barbell behind your neck.

Alternatives on lunges - do it with dumbbells - lunge forward and lift the dumbbell above your head for more of a full body workout.

Just get creative and don't forget about the small muscles.

some of the traditional ballet moves...like plies..(not sure that's spelled right, sorry traditional leg lifts...one of my fav's is called the fire hydrant. (you do this on all fours, hands and knees, keeping knee bent, lift to the side just like a dog peeing on a fire hydrant) sorry to be so graphic LOL! But they work!