Fat around the thighs can be really stubborn and simply refuse to be shed no matter how we diet or exercise.

If you’re looking to tone your thigh area, this massage routine that is trending hard in Japan right now may be what you can consider doing. It promises to slim your legs down by 7cm within a month!

How is it done exactly, and what is the logic behind it? We’ve got all the details right here, so keep reading!

How this slimming massage routine work

Japanese Leg Slimming Massage - The Logic - studioteal.yoga on Instagram

Photo source: @studioteal.yoga on Instagram

According to Japanese beauty writer Chiba, thick thighs may not necessarily be caused by too much food and not enough workout, but rather, by poor lymphatic circulation.

She explained that when the lymph nodes in the legs are blocked, excess water cannot be recovered and metabolised, leading to an accumulation of water.

This is called edema, which is the observable swelling from fluid accumulation in body tissues. It can lead to poor blood circulation, which in turn affecting the burning of fat.

To help improve blood circulation and reduce water retention, Chiba developed a massage routine. It is divided into a set of six movements and is recommended to be done 20 times a day for a total of ten minutes.

This massage routine is currently trending in Japan, with netizens reporting noticeable results, including some who said they saw a reduction of 7cm in four weeks.

How to do the slimming massage routine

Step 1: Press the thigh

Japanese Leg Slimming Massage - Step 1

After applying body lotion evenly to both of your legs, you can begin the first step of this slimming massage routine.

Simply press the palm of your hand down to the base of your thigh and massage repeatedly for 20 times.

Step 2: Foot massage

Japanese Leg Slimming Massage - Step 2

Next, use both thumbs to press down from the sole of the foot all the way to the toes.

This step can relieve the pressure on the legs throughout the day and improve blood circulation.

Step 3: Massage the ankle

Japanese Leg Slimming Massage - Step 3

Then, massage the ankle. Press your finger in an up-and-down motion, followed by a back-and-forth motion. Repeat this action 20 times to complete one set.

Step 4: Focus on the calf

Japanese Leg Slimming Massage - Step 4

Apply more body lotion and press the back of the calf with your thumb and bring it to the back of the knee joint.

Lubrication is important to get this step right, so don’t be afraid to use more body lotion if your skin is too dry.

Step 5: Weight-bearing massage

Japanese Leg Slimming Massage - Step 5

When massaging, slowly add pressure to activate the acupoints along your thigh.

Make a fist with one hand, open the five fingers of the other hand, and place it above your fist. Press down using your fist, moving from your knee to your hips.

Step 6: Soothing relaxation

Japanese Leg Slimming Massage - Step 6

Finally, it’s time to soothe your muscles. Knead the base of your thigh repeatedly with both hands to relax your them.

Now, you’re done with your routine!

Featured image credit: アーティストリーTM 公式チャンネル Artistry Japan