I am not active above what it takes to manage a house with three kids and I watch my 18 month old great-nephew during the day. I am not having a problem with getting weight off--that just took changing my eating habits, portion control, and relying on God to help me make the right choices. I have lost 30 lbs since the first of the year, but still have a LONG way to go to where I would like to be.
My problem area is my arms, specifically the flabby area underneath. I have started to lift low weights (1-2lb hand weights) doing all of the typical lifts in sets of 15-20 reps. I do 3-5 sets a say, depending on how much free time I have with the boys. Is this a good start and then build to heavier ones? I also have 3, 5, and 10 lb hand weights.
I am planning on joining a gym, very soon, just need to ensure that I have a sitter in the evening in order to do it.
Now that the weather is starting to break and we have daylight savings time, I will also be walking in the afternoons with all of the kids, involving pushing said nephew in a double stroller.
I used to be very active--I played soccer, softball, and basketball, but it has been many many years since I last played any sports. I cannot run, I have cartilage damage in my knees from past injuries and my weight.
Suggestions?
Living God's blessings with grace and dignity~ SMW
OK, First congrats on the weight loss!!! Good for you!! Keep up the good work in that area!! As for lifting and your arms, no, going really light and high reps is not the best way to tone arms, or any muscles for that matter. The back area of your arms is the tricep muscle and it makes up 3/4 of your total arm mass. What I suggest for those are dips, with a chair 4-6 sets of 6-8 reps, close grip push-ups same set and rep scheme, tricep extensions with the dumbell same set and rep scheme. Remember this, you most work your total body to have good overall symatry. Concentrating on one or two areas will make you look out of proportion.
