Part of our issues with bloating are in perception. I think you perceive or feel your arms seem smaller because your belly seems bigger. I don't think it is possible to have smaller biceps because of bloating. And when you lift weights you are breaking the muscle down each time and it grows bigger and stronger after it recovers (why you can't do weights two days in a row). You probably know that. But it wouldn't really be possible for the muscle to seem smaller after some workouts. It might not bulge as high if it is tired or if you are tired. I have noticed when I am worn out after a lot of work I can't make my biceps bulge as high to look at them. I think understanding your own perception is involved will make you more accepting of not looking the way you want 100% of the time.
-------------------- IBS-A for 20 years with terrible bloating and gas. On the diet since April 2004. Remember this from Heather's information pages:
"You absolutely must eat insoluble fiber foods, and as much as safely possible, but within the IBS dietary guidelines. Treat insoluble fiber foods with suitable caution, and you'll be able to enjoy a wide variety of them, in very healthy quantities, without problem." Please eat IF foods!