One of the things I love about this movement system is that it’s kind to your body—but still gets results. The tai chi–inspired exercises below will sculpt your thighs without ever causing you a moment of joint pain. They have other benefits as well, such as promoting relaxation and fine-tuning strength, balance, and flexibility. You can do them every day for gentle lower-body toning or as a warm-up or cool-down for a more strenuous workout. The Empty Step Stand tall and relaxed with knees slightly bent and hands in front of chest, elbows bent. Gently take an “empty step” by lifting right foot as if you were about to start walking, and place heel so it hovers near floor. Breathe deeply and evenly as you hold this position for 30 seconds. Then set right foot down, step left foot forward, and repeat with left leg. Continue this slow-motion walk forward for six strides on each side. MORE: 6 Moves That Target Stubborn Cellulite Rooster Pose Breathe deeply as you extend leg slightly, keeping body steady. Hold for 30 seconds to 3 minutes, then lower and switch legs. Perform twice with each leg. MORE: 7 Things That Happen When You Stop Eating Sugar Crouch Step Stand with feet wider than shoulder-width apart and toes angled out slightly. Bend elbows so that forearms are parallel to each other in front of chest, about 10 inches apart, with palms facing each other. Keeping right leg straight, bend left knee as you let body sink toward floor. Hold for 30 seconds to 3 minutes, straighten left leg, and repeat, bending right leg and switching top/bottom arm position. Perform twice with each leg.
