How much do you lift?

It must have just been the way i was standing and of course when I noticed it I had to do a real 'pose' and then I could see the big muscle definition as well as how broad my shoulders have become.  So weird!   I have to admit that it does make me proud to see more celebrities showing a little muscle...have you seen Kelly Ripa's arms on a recent Tide commercial?  Very defined and i think it sends a good message to young women.  

I don't currently use barbells, but I do implement some free weights into my "upper body days" weight training.  (I am by no means "accomplished"!!)  I don't even know the real names of the various exercises, but depending on the specific one I'm doing, I generally use 8, 10, and 12 lb. weights in each hand.  When I was really more devoted & consistent (my first 2 yrs. post-op), I sometimes pushed myself to use 15 lbs. per hand for a couple exercises.  I generally do 2 sets of 12-15 reps and want to start working towards 3 sets of 10-12 reps. I also do various weight machines, but I don't know how to explain what the machines are (I don't know the names of them) to be able to tell you what level of resistance (in lbs.) that I use. This winter has NOT been my most shining period of time, as far as working out goes.   I have had a few lapses, but I've not abandoned it either!  I'm joining Kathy's "Did You Move to Lose Challenge" in hopes of giving myself a little more motivation to be consistent! Jo

Wanda when I walk I use a 3 or 5 lbs free weight in each hand and on pilates I am pushing and pulling my own weight of 131, of course I am laying down on the reformer. Don't think I would even try this standing.