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Originally Posted by Cd
So if a person lifts dumbells with only one arm is it actually possible to have one skinny arm and one big arm ? My guess would be of course not .
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There is an interesting effect that occurs when, as per Piwoslaw's example, one can only exercise one limb due to injury. Surprisingly, the other limb does make some limited progress. However, working out one side on a regular basis would certainly result in an asymmetry, because the body builds muscle on the basis of need.
When talking about lifting weights as a means to gain muscle, it is important to get out of the 'isolate everything' mindset. A hormonal response - as well as a caloric surplus that most lifters use - will aid in muscle development in general. That's why big compound exercises like squats and presses performed correctly will put muscle on a skinny kid.
So the very testosterone and protein needed to build the big arm in the first place may also
contribute to the smaller arm, although that limb will be noticeably smaller due to lack of exercise.
As an added note, minor strength and size asymmetries are not terribly uncommon even among lifters who use [evenly loaded] barbells on a regular basis, and lift them in a symmetrical manner. Interesting thing.