CATHE's reply
This was asked to Cathe a while ago, here is her reply:
One of the best exercises for the "teardrop" effect is a leg extension. In my opinion, this exercise works best on a leg extension machine however, most people do not have this unit in their home. You can simulate this exercise by putting a 15 pound ankle weight around your ankle and sitting on a table with your legs hanging off the end (simply raise and lower your leg for 3 sets of 15 reps). Although this will not challenge your muscle as effectively as a leg extention machine, it will target that specific quad area. You could also put a heavy dumbell between your feet and lift that while sitting on the table too but it may be prove to be too distracting as you try not to drop the dumbbell while doing the reps.
Forward lunges are a little harder to do than back lunges due to the gravitational pull forward. Many find that this forward force hurts their knees. You can modify forward lunges by lunging forward onto a step vs the floor. This will decrease the impact and distance of the lunge making it a little easier yet more comfortable. If you are looking for a substitute exercise, you could do a static lunge. Good Luck!
Susan C.M.
