4 Women Get a Lower Body Makeover

Heather's Story

Name: Heather
Goal: Lose cellulite
Age: 25
Height: 5'7"

Heather Told Us: "I jiggle all over my lower body but have no idea how to get more toned! I don't think I've worked out a day in my life."

Weight: 145 lb.
Body Fat: 27%
Thighs: 19"

Weight: 133 lb.
Body Fat: 20%
Thighs: 17.5"

"Since cellulite is the result of fat deposits, it's important to do a combination of cardio to reduce body fat and strength moves to tone muscle," says Tilita Lutterloh, a personal trainer at Equinox Fitness Club in New York City.

Heather exercised for 30 minutes two or three days a week on the treadmill, stairmill, or VersaClimber, and did two days of strength training that focused on the lower body, plus step-ups and agility drills to burn more fat while sculpting muscle. She also started eating more regularly and added protein and fruit to her diet.

Week one: I never realized I had quite so many muscles that weren't being used. After my first two training sessions, I could hardly walk and bought the biggest bottle of Advil sold at the drugstore!

Week three: It's not easy getting up at 6 a.m. to be at the gym by 7. But I already have more energy, even during a really busy week at work. Yesterday, my trainer said that she thought that "my twin" had showed up at the gym because my form was so much better.

Week four: My legs don't burn as much when I exercise, and I actually look forward to working out. And because my jeans are bigger on me, my friends are calling me "the incredible shrinking Heather."

Week six: Halfway there -- I've lost 3 percent of my body fat!

Week twelve: I've lost 10 pounds, and my clothing size has dropped from an 8 to a 6. Best of all, my cellulite has definitely diminished. When I started, I used to feel sick after a few minutes on the treadmill. Now I can get through a 30-minute workout and still feel great!