Leg Training Question ...

[niclyf]

I think I'm an ecto, since I have a small frame and really fight to add mass to my upper body, however my lower body seems to gain weight first, be it fat or muscle. I typically don't go above a 30lb barbell on lower body to avoid beefing up too much. My trainer wants me lifting *heavy* on my lower body. Yesterday I went up to 35 or 40 depending on the exercise/set, and I swear, my legs thighs and quads are looking beefier, a look I'm not going for! Anyone out there who was in the same position that actually didn't bulk their legs from heavier lifting??

Thanks girls!!

 

[trevor]

Your trainer needs to explain why he/she wants you to go heavy on lower body. If you bulk up easily on lower body you need to go high reps/lower weight to lean yourself out. And you can go heavier/lower reps on upper body to bulk a little if you want.
For cardio a little running might also lean your legs a bit.
Trevor

 

[Bobbi]

I wish I had your problem for my chicken legs! I agree with Trevor and I would tell your trainer you prefer low weight, hi rep work which should define your legs without bulking them up. He's right about running. Running is great for the legs!
http://www.handykult.de/plaudersmilies.de/person/schnauz.gif Bobbi

 

[Michele S]

I have the same problem and always babied my legs for fear of bulking up. I just recently starting using heavier weights for my legs and have seen an incredible difference. They're not chicken legs by any means, but they've definitely slimmed down a little. My husband even noticed and he does not notice anything. Maybe just give the heavy lifting a few weeks and see how it goes!

 

[niclyf]

Hey Michelle,

Can you tell me more about your lower body training lately?? What exercise (or video) are you doing, and what kind of weight are you using?? Did you find when you first starting using heavier weights that you had any 'swelling' at all??

Thanks again!