<p>This might not apply to the original poster, but this is a very big problem for some women. The whole upper body strength thing. </p>
<p>I concur with the practice, practice, practice thing. But, if you can’t even do one pullup getting that first one is a leap.</p>
<p>We belong to our local YMCA and they have a machine which is really neat for working up to pullups. You kneel on a plate that is counter-balanced by an adjustable amount of weight. You can start out with 100 lbs and work down until you are lifting your complete weight.</p>
<p>An alternative to this is the really big rubber strips (rubber bands?) that you can buy at fitness equipment stores. Get about 6 feet, tie each end to your bar, step on it and it will counteract some of your weight.</p>
<p>And take heart. Once you get past the first one, the second, third etc. get easier.</p>
<p>Practice, practice, practice.</p>
<p>Good luck…</p>