When I started, my BMI was 36% of my 245-250 lb. size, so I calculated the non-fat part of me was only 161 lbs. and with normal 4 to 8% fat would give me a normal weight of about 175 lbs., so I would use that to estimate any percentage of what I "should be lifting" (though I don't subscribe or use that measurement approach, first because it's your non-fat weight that matters with the weight lifted, and second it depends upon what muscle group you are using and if it is a complex or simple exercise invoked, so the weight itself is secondary). Instead, I use my breathing to guide me, and I am down to 239 lbs. in about 3 months, and have been steadily increasing the weight lifted, depending on the exercise, as it becomes too comfortable. I never hold my breath or grunt to strain, and keep my breathing steady. I don't care how long it takes me to add another 5 lbs., just taking it slow. My goal is to have a net calorie intake (ingested food less consumed calories from exercise) of 1500 calories, which would mean about a pound loss per week or better. The extra muscle will accelerate my resting metabolism. It is also restoring some of my lost ability from an adult sedentary life, and make me look better. I am not getting the visible vascularization I used to have, but at my age, who cares, as I am adding muscle girth. The heaviest weight I use is on the quad press machine, 170 lbs. at the moment and calf press machine, 190 lbs. at the moment, as these two muscle groups are naturally the strongest, and actually the easiest to do for me. Other exercises are as light as 35 lbs. I anticipate that if I get down to my former "fighting weight" of 178 lbs., I will be doing these weights and probably more, since the absence of fat won't mean a loss of anything good. But run everything by your cardiologist early on or before you start to make sure in your case its not over your red line or that s/he may have a better routine for you.