I just started strength training last month with the goal of getting stronger and toning up, but I’ve realized that I’m quite weak. When I try lifting dumbbells, I can barely manage 5-10 lbs and struggle with both upper and lower body exercises. This is really affecting my motivation, even though I know I’ll get stronger if I stick with it. Right now, I’m feeling discouraged by how little strength I have. Has anyone else been in this situation? How did you keep pushing forward? Any tips or motivation would be appreciated!
Lack of motivation often comes from putting in too much effort too quickly.
First, understand that it’s a mental game won over the long term with consistency. Don’t focus too much on specific numbers or strict timelines. Instead, aim for sustainability—train a manageable number of days per week, keep sessions short, and avoid injuries.
I’ve been training with resistance bands for almost two years and gained 14 kg of muscle, working out just 3 days a week for 30 minutes each session, always pushing every set to failure. I use the Weller band app and their PowerBands.
If you feel like skipping a workout, that’s fine, but the rule is never skip two in a row. Bands are great because there’s no excuse—you don’t need a gym and can even take them with you on vacation.
Progress is like compound interest. Also, train in front of a mirror to remind yourself of the areas you want to improve and to see your results as you make progress.
Never rely on shortcuts like drugs, as the results will fade when you stop, and you can’t take them forever. Fitness should always be about health.
Staying motivated is my biggest challenge as well. The first step is to focus on what you’re good at or what you already enjoy, like maybe a form of cardio. This way, you can impress yourself or meet your goals more easily. Then, gradually work on improving the other areas you want to focus on.
Secondly, what has really helped me is turning workouts into a game. I discovered this when I used exercise equipment at a gym that had built-in games, and I’ve never been as worn out from a workout since.
Set realistic goals. It doesn’t matter how much you can lift right now—what’s important is staying consistent and maintaining good form. I can assure you that soon, those 5-10 lb weights will feel much lighter. I started with 10 kg (~22 lb) dumbbells back in 2015, and they felt incredibly heavy—I struggled to even move them. Now, they’re starting to feel too light (though I wasn’t lifting consistently the whole time, as I took breaks until around 2020).
Also, find a workout buddy, even if it’s virtual. I have two good friends who help keep me on track. One is my best friend, who struggles just like you but I keep pushing him, and another lives in a different city. We encourage each other over Discord, and that helps a lot with consistency.
To show how helpful that support can be: I likely have Poland syndrome, which means my left chest muscle didn’t fully develop in the womb, so no matter how much I lift, I’ll always have a half pec. I don’t think I could stay motivated on my own, but with my friends’ support, I know I can keep going.
Stay strong! 
Consider switching up your workout routine. Peloton offers fantastic instructors who can motivate you with a variety of free weight workout classes. You can start with the basic membership for about $12 a month.
You’ll be amazed at how quickly your body can adapt and improve in strength and balance over time.
You’ll definitely get stronger! When I started last year, I bought 5, 10, and 15 lb dumbbells, and later added 3 lb and 8 lb weights. It took me some time to work up to using the 15 lb dumbbells, but it’s all about repetition! This year, I’ve bought 20s and 25s, and now I’m looking for some used 30s and 35s. You can do it—just stay consistent! 
Begin with lighter weights. If you have access to lower weights, use them. You’ll be surprised at the strength gains you can achieve as a beginner. I started with just 15 lbs for my triceps, and now I typically lift around 40 lbs. Be patient and have confidence in yourself. Before long, you’ll be sharing that you’re using 25 lbs, then 35 lbs, and eventually 50 lbs. You can do this!
What has helped me make progress over the years is consistency, not motivation. It’s easy to feel discouraged, even after training for some time, but if you remain consistent, the results will come regardless. Just keep pushing forward!
Strength training is definitely one of my favorite workouts, and I’m lucky to have discovered this passion through the Obé Fitness online platform! They offer live strength classes and thousands of on-demand workouts that you can take anytime. I’ve found that the trainers on Obé have really helped me improve my form and stay motivated. Additionally, Obé has an amazing online community on Facebook where users share sweaty selfies, ask questions, and support each other for accountability and motivation. It’s been fantastic for my motivation, and I’ve made some of my best fitness friends through that group! If you want to try this platform, use this link https://www.obefitness.com/?rstr=2965 along with my code Nikkibellaxo3 for a 30-day free trial. Hope this helps!