Sudden, rapid weight loss and the aging process are the two biggest reasons for the appearance of loose, saggy skin. Loss of skin elasticity results from collagen breakdown and to some extent is permanent. There are, however, ways you can partially compensate for this collagen breakdown using a variety of exercises that work to increase muscle mass in your triceps, abdomen and thighs, the areas of your body most prone to loose and sagging skin.
Triceps Exercises
The dumbbell press and front squat are two exercises you can use to build muscle tone in the muscles under your arms, called the triceps. BusyWomensFitness.com recommends starting with a pair of two to three pound dumbbells, moving to a heavier weight as your muscle groups become stronger.
To perform the dumbbell press you need an exercise bench or chair. Sit at the edge of the bench and position your arms so your elbows are over your head, pointed toward the ceiling, and your arms are hanging to the side, just behind your head, with a dumbbell in each hand. Slowly raise your arms toward the ceiling, tensing, or flexing, your triceps as you go. With your arms fully extended, hold for a few seconds and then slowly move back toward your starting position. Repeat this exercise 10 times.
To perform a front squat, stand with your back straight, eyes forward and feet slightly apart. Cross your arms and holding a dumbbell in each hand, rest your hands on your shoulders. Slowly lower yourself, bending at the knees only as far as is comfortable, and then return to a standing position. Repeat this exercise 10 times.
Abdominal Exercises
Crunches, bends and twists can improve muscle tone in your abdominal area and help tighten loose skin. Repeat each exercise 10 to 15 times with a break in between for 30 to 45 times.
Perform crunches from a prone position. Suck in your stomach, hold your breath and raise your upper body to a 45-degree angle. Hold this position to about two seconds and then slowly lower yourself back to a prone position.
Side bends work on both your abdominal oblique muscles and the small muscles in your back. Stand up straight with your arms resting at your sides. Lean slightly forward, keep your hips straight and move your upper body from left to right, then from right to left.
Health and Lifestyle magazines rates the torso twist as one of the best exercises you can do to tighten abdominal muscles. Stand straight, suck in your stomach and hold your breath as you twist your upper body from left to right and then from right to left.
Thigh Exercises
Leg lunges, with or without a dumbbell, are good for tightening thigh muscles. Stand straight with your feet together and arms resting at your sides. Leave one foot in place and take a two-foot step forward with your other foot. As you move forward, bend your leg but make sure to keep your shin in a straight line with the ground. Push back, return to a standing position and then repeat with your other leg.
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