Okay, so I did a trial run last night with my ghetto weight system. I was really struggling to do 5 pounds on each dumbbell. I could probably hit my 10 really quick with 10 pounds on each. Is this normal when you first start working out or am I just that wimpy? My son thinks I am pathetic.

Doing heavier weights without the proper form will not do you any good. You should be able to do 10-12 reps with proper form. This does not mean to do weight that is to easy, rather, you should have to really push yourself to do the last couple of reps. Your weight will increase as you become stronger. Keep a log of the amount of weight you do with each bodypart, you will not only remember the next time you lift, but also will see the increase in weight as you get stronger. That is motivating!!!!

What matters when hitting your 10s, Kathryn, is that they are your 10s and not your son's. If 10 lbs is what it takes then 10 lbs it is. The key is that 4 or 5 weeks from now this will all have changed.

Use your workout sheets to kee track as you go - you will see your progress. The maximum you can lift now will not be the maxium when 12 weeks have come and gone.

And yes, upper body strength tends to be something that women have to work at when starting out.

Nat

I went and bought 3# dumbbells today and will have to start on that weight first and work myself up. I just felt so wimpy. I mean, I couldn't believe how much I struggled with 5#! And I do know how important form is so that is why I felt so wimpy to begin with.

I am doing a full trial run UBWO today and a full LBWO tomorrow. Start officially on Monday. Wish me luck! and Strength!

Good luck....and keep us posted on your progress!!!