YogaBuff,

Actually, if you ask me, a 3-lb. loss in your ability to lift doesn't sound all that bad. I bet you'll be back to your old self quicker than you think. I've only been lifting a week (3 sessions so far) and at first I was dreadfully sore afterward. But already I've reached the point where I'm not sore at all after lifting and I think I'll bump my weight up a bit on my next session. I work out at home, too. (Hey, I'm a homebody like you. It saves all that money I'd have to spend on a gym membership). I have a bench and a new curling bar and plates for it ranging from 5 to 35 pounds. Right now I'm using it at 25. I can use the bar for squats, and shoulder and chest presses as well. In addition, I have a whole range of dumbbells that I use for other exercises. But I can't imagine going at it for an hour. My limit is about 35-45 minutes.

Missydog