Inner Thigh (adductor longus)

[rose426]

I workout on a regular basis, I love the way I feel. I am very toned for a 49yr old. I have always had nice legs, even as a child, but I have always had the same problem. My left inner & upper thigh is not now, nor has ever been solid. It got worse after having children. The doctor has said it's not fat, just a weak muscle. While trying to isolate & concentrate on it, everything I've done exhausts the other muscles.
Anyone have any ideas?

 

[NinjaMom]

Not Cathe but I thought I'd chime in. I am currently in physical therapy for a hamstring tear at the sitbones. I have been strength training for over 7 years so imagine my surprise when the PT said my adductors are weak. She went on to explain that even though I perform what I consider adductor specific exercises, other stronger surrounding muscles kick in and assist too much. She gave me some exercises that are supposed to target only the adductor and they are HARD! It is very difficult to isolate one muscle while relaxing those that want to assist so I totally understand where you are coming from. My only suggestion is to seek out a physical therapist who can provide instruction and exercises specific to the muscle that is weak.

Good luck!

JJ

 

[rose426]

Thanks for the reply. Unfortunately I've been told to keep doing what I do. It's just one of those uuuughs!!!

 

[howrobin]

not Cathe here.

Have had a similar problem, due to so much time just sitting in a chair at work, various muscle pulls, my not stretching enough, etc. Recently discovered an exercise program by a martial artist named Paul Zaichik. The program is aimed at martial artists trying to improve their kicking skills and also at persons wanting to do front and side splits. It is called "Elastic Steel." If you google his name and Elastic Steel, you will find his web site. I have been doing it off and on for a couple of months and it is helping me. By no means is it a substitute for Cathe's cardio or weight work. Her cardio/weight work should remain the meat and potatoes of your work outs, but it is a good supplement for a specific problem. So for example, I do Cathe's Kick Punch and Crunch, and then at the end do 10 minutes of Elastic Steel stetching/conditioning for the inner/outer thigh because that program is geared directly to my problem area.
Good luck.