Why do saddlebags happen?

Author: Millie Ratke  |  Last update: Monday, July 28, 2025

Muscle atrophy can lead to the development of saddlebags as the muscle on the buttocks are often underused, as most people spend the majority of their day seated. As a result, the muscles in the area lose their shape and begin to sag, thus turning into saddlebags.

Do saddlebags ever go away?

Sometimes fat hangs on to certain spots for women albeit while generally losing weight all-over, though chances are, saddlebags (& other problem spots) will go away with a low enough body fat percentage. Mind you, one should definitely stay within a healthy range and use their own discretion!

Why am I skinny but have saddlebags?

Saddlebags can form across a person's body for a variety of different reasons, from genetics and hormones to lifestyle factors. We all store fat differently across our bodies as well. So some people may be more prone to gaining weight across their abdomen rather than their thighs.

How do I get rid of saddlebags on my legs?

The best way to lose body fat (saddlebags included) is through exercise. Increase the amount of cardio you do, and you can significantly minimize your outer thigh fat. Some great cardio workouts include swimming, running, jumping rope, walking, cycling, and hiking.

What foods give you saddlebags?

Carbohydrate-rich foods (rice, pasta, bread, etc.) easily increase your total calories, which is why we tend to get fatter with these foods, because it can be difficult to control portions. But it is not the food itself that makes you fat, it is the portions that are too large.

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What hormone causes saddlebags?

The development of saddlebags is more common among women, in part due to the prevalence of hormonal fluctuations and imbalances. In particular, an excess of oestrogen can lead to weight gain in the bottom and thigh area, which is a common occurrence during pregnancy.

Does walking help saddlebags?

Does Walking Get Rid of Saddlebags? If you live a very sedentary lifestyle, walking can help you get rid of saddlebags.

What hormone causes inner thigh fat?

Estrogen is one of the leading hormonal causes of thigh fat because it causes increased levels of fat cells which cause fat deposits to form in and around the thighs. Age can also be a contributing factor because aging results in a slower metabolism, which makes it more difficult to eliminate fat.

What are saddlebags caused by?

The causes of saddlebags can be attributed to 4 factors: Lifestyle: high-calorie diet low in fruits and vegetables, excess alcohol and tobacco. Hormonal causes: estrogens, which are produced during certain phases of life (for example, breastfeeding), may promote fat build up in the lower body.

How do you reshape saddlebags?

Reshaping and Restoring the Bags

While repair kits are available, a many riders use this handy trick to get their saddlebags back to normal. To start, simply soak each bag in a bucket or tub of hot water for about 30 seconds. This makes the leather more malleable, so you can reform it into whatever shape you need.

Can you tone saddlebags?

Exercise is a fantastic tool that supports the reduction of fat across your body, including saddlebags. When you tone the muscles under the fat layer, it subtly reshapes and strengthens your body, providing a leaner appearance.

What is the best treatment for saddlebags?

The best way to get rid of saddlebags is minimally invasive liposuction. Liposuction under local anesthesia is a relatively simple procedure which only takes a couple of hours to perform. The area of the saddlebags is numbed with tumescent fluid.

Are saddlebags unattractive?

Saddlebags refer to excess fat deposits on the outer thighs and hips. They create a bulging appearance, often affecting body shape and confidence.

Can you massage saddlebags away?

Yes, you can get rid of saddlebags without exercise by making smart lifestyle changes! Focus on a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole foods to support fat loss. Lymphatic massage helps improve circulation and reduce fluid retention, while staying hydrated flushes out toxins.

How much does it cost to remove saddlebags?

The cost of outer thigh liposuction will vary based on where the patient chooses to have the procedure. For patients who choose Smartlipo for their outer thighs, a typical price range to expect is between $3,000 and $5,000.

Does high estrogen cause saddlebags?

Women are generally more susceptible to developing saddlebags, partly because of hormonal factors. Oestrogen, a female hormone, can sometimes be produced in excess, leading to weight gain specifically in the areas around the thighs and bottom. This is often seen during phases like pregnancy.

Why are my thighs so fat even though I'm skinny?

Genetics and a lack of exercise are standard reasons, but for women, thigh fat can also commonly develop for estrogenic reasons. The amount of estrogen receptors in the thighs and the effect the hormone has on fat pads in the thigh area can also be primary causes.

How to flush out excess estrogen?

Eat a healthy diet: Eating a low-fat, high-fiber diet with very little processed sugar can make it easier for your liver to process estrogen. Limit your alcohol intake: Eliminating alcohol or drinking in moderation can help your liver break down estrogen. Reduce your exposure to synthetic xenoestrogens.

How to get rid of fat deposits on legs?

Exercising and using compression stockings can give you a better outcome. Liposuction can help you feel better. Having other conditions like depression, obesity or lymphedema can make lipedema worse. A provider can refer you for counseling, physical therapy or help managing your pain.

What cardio gets rid of saddlebags?

Saddlebag-Workout-Plan:

In order to reduce your saddlebags fat, cardio exercises are very important. Especially workouts that involve the entire body like kickboxing, aerobics, running, swimming, and cycling. Try to vary and aim for 40 minutes exercising at least three times a week.

What body type has a thigh gap?

A thigh gap is the noticeable space that appears between the inner thighs when you're standing with your feet pressed together. Thigh gaps are typically a feature of extremely slim women or girls, but even the skinniest people might not have a natural thigh gap.

How to dress if you have saddlebags?

Clothes that glide over your hips and thighs or flow from your waist will help your figure look sleek. You can also accentuate your décolletage with ruffles or a plunging neckline while balancing your look with a flowing skirt.

Are hip dips the same as saddlebags?

“Saddlebags” is the colloquial term for fat pockets below the hip dip area. People with an inward curve between the femur and hip tend to accumulate fat below the curve. That can emphasize the appearance of hip dips and make them more obvious.

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