Chicago, Mar 11 : US first lady Michelle Obama's toned arms have been seen by some as workout inspiration and by others as symbols of hope.

One such fan is Ann Fox, who works out at the East Bank Club, and loves the first lady''s trademark sleeveless dresses.

"She is setting a wonderful example of a confident woman who is making healthy food choices, exercising regularly, and is comfortable with her body," the Chicago Suntimes quoted her as saying.

Jennifer Smith, fitness and sports director at the High Ridge YMCA in Rogers Park, gave her expert opinion.

"Michelle Obama''s arms are attractive because they are toned enough for you to see the muscle distinction but not to the point that it takes away from her femininity," Smith said.

"This proves that women can do weight training exercises and reach their desired results without bulking up," she stated.

Bonnie Fuller, from the Huffington Post, sees the well-toned arms as nothing less than symbols of the audacity of hope.

"Michelle''s strong arms convey the message that if she can personally hug and lift us out of a lousy economy and a lack of top health care or education for everyone, she will," Fuller said.

Gretchen Collins, fitness director at the East Bank Club, has advised that in order to get the great look one would really have to workout hard.

"You need to have a low body fat percentage," she said.

Adding: "You''ve got to work the whole package, with full-body strength training, good nutrition and cardio, cardio, cardio." (ANI)