How to Lose Weight In Your Lower Legs

No one part of your body will lose weight more than any other part simply by dieting. This is especially true of the lower legs or calves. Weight loss through dieting will occur throughout your body gradually. If you have a significant amount of weight to lose, dieting could cause you to see a marked change in the size of your calves. For most people, though, exercise and liposuction are the most effective options for losing weight in your calves.

Instructions

• 1

  Focus your exercise routine on your calves. Exercise is the most effective way to tone and shape your lower legs. Activities that tone your calf muscles include squats, jumping rope, sprinting and heel lifts. Aerobic activities such as walking, running and swimming can trim fat from your lower legs, in addition to burning fat throughout your body. The stretches done in yoga and Pilates can lengthen your muscles and give your calf muscles a less bulky appearance.

• 2

  Decrease your caloric intake if you are overweight. Eat healthy foods and increase the amount of lean protein you consume to help your body build muscle. When you burn body fat -- and build muscle in your lower legs -- your legs will appear leaner.

• 3

  Drink plenty of water to keep all systems within your body performing well. Calves and ankles can appear large when your body is retaining water due to various reasons. Perhaps your diet contains too much sodium, you are dehydrated or you are suffering from a medical condition that prevents your body from eliminating fluids properly. If you spend a large portion of your day on your feet, take some time to rest by elevating your feet. If your lower legs still appear swollen after rest, hydration and diet changes, consult your physician.

• 4

  Consult a plastic surgeon to assess whether or not liposuction is a valid option for you. Some people are genetically predisposed to having larger lower legs. In such a case, dieting and exercise might not give you the results you want. A board-certified plastic surgeon will examine you and determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure.