Zoey,
Thanks a lot for your lovely comment, I’m sooo happy to help! :)

Hi Athenais,
It really depends on how strong you are and how much you can take.
Some people progress in a few months, while others stick to the same weight for a year.
What you should do is pick up a weight, and try to do a movement (certain exercise).
Keep increasing the weight until you find the one that’s really challenging, but still gives you the opportunity to keep the right form of the exercise.
In time, you’ll notice how you can do 13-15 reps with a weight that you hardly could do 10, and that’s when you need to pick up a harder weight.
Just don’t force yourself in the first few weeks, let your muscles adapt to the movements first, before you load them up.
The most you’ll be able to load up is your legs – I personally got to 40 kg on squat.
Other than that, you’re fine with 22kg.

I was wondering what were the requirements for a good gym? (Range of free weights, must-have equipments…) I’m going to be looking into suscribing a gym membership soon and I want it to pay off as much as possible!
Also, how much weight should I start lifting and how heavy can I expect to be able to lift in a year from now? (most gym in France have to place custom orders for free weights above 22kg so that’s why I’m asking)
I know it must depend on the person but what would be a good rule of thumb?

As always, thanks for your help! :)

Ps : I would like to lose fat, be able to see my abs and build muscles so that I could carry a 80kg man in the very long term. :3
I want fitness to become a part of my life ~~

Well, 4 times a week gym, 2 times karate, and one rest day, sounds like a great plan to me :)
I workout 5 times a week, have one hiking day and one rest day.
So you just figure out your best schedule and take it from there :)

Hey Shannon,
I’ll be more than happy to do tips for over 40. Doing it first thing Monday morning.
Monica