Success stories women in their 50's who have toned up

I'm almost at my goal weight of 135 (5'10" tall) with 2 lbs left. I've been firming up with light weights and strength workouts. That seems for me at least to be doing the best for me. i don't have any pictures right now but I'll see what I can get. (Oh, and by the way, I'm 58, almost 59.)

What kind of strength work outs do you do and thanks can't wait to see the pictures

I have a DVD that my daughter gave me from I don't know when by Women's Health called "Look Better Naked". It has a strength workout and a metabolism workout. The strength one is my favorite but I do the metabolism one off and on also. The strength has really worked wonders at toning up. I have issues with my stomach area in particular after 3 babies, 1 c-section, and 3 intestinal surgeries ... and it's actually starting to flatten out (amazing). It's also toning up my arms. I'll look at the DVD tonight and get the actual information on it for you when I'm home.

Thanks I really appreciate that as I am so new to all this stuff, never lifted weights, basically only thing I ever done was walking and i still do that but now I am motivated to tone up and you guys are very motivating

I only use 5 lb weights too ... and started with just 2 1/2 lob weights ... so it's not like a huge amount ... and it could be less if you want. She gave me the weights, but you could even start by using a soup can or something like that for a lower weight. I didn't think I could do it, but she encouraged me and since she is a dancer (and has been since she was very little) and her mother-in-law is a dietician, she is a terrific source for me.

Hang in there ... you can do it ... even if it's small amounts.

I'm 50 now and lost 45 pounds 2 years ago. I have always been a weight lifter, but I put on weight in my 40s and decided to do something about it. I just followed the guidelines here on MFP, ate my exercise calories, and cleaned up my diet - lots of lean meats, veggies, fruits, and occasional treats now and then. I cook most of my food from scratch, and pack my lunches for work. I believe in the theory that about 80% of your diet should be for nutrition, and about 20% for whatever you want, within your macros. It's worked for me.

At our age, I think the biggest factor is patience. The weight doesn't always come off quickly, and sometimes you have to mess around with your calories and exercise types to find that "sweet spot" that gets you the body you want. It can take me three months to lose 5 pounds, but that's the way it is when you're whittling off those last few pounds of fat.

As for exercise, I do Wendler's 5/3/1 strength program for powerlifting. I was a powerlifter in college, and once I hit my goal weight and needed something to work towards, i decided to get back into the sport. So now I'm competing in the Master's division (50-54) and loving it! In fact, I have the Florida State Championship meet in a month, so I'm training my *kitten* off and eating super clean. I don't recommend doing the 5/3/1 program unless you're seriously trying to build strength. It's designed for experienced lifters who really hit the iron hard. I'd recommend 5x5 or one of the other programs already mentioned. They're all good programs and you'll get great results if you put in the work.

Honestly, I'm in better shape than most women half my age, and that's pretty sad. Age is no excuse. Good luck!