have never pumped a tire properly. HELP

[Zen]

Start doing those push ups.

[MomOnBike]

First, around here we just don't get crabby when someone asks a how-to-do-it question. We all have those. This is the place one goes to get legitimate questions answered. What is more legitimate than getting air in the tires?

Second, I really don't have much to add, but I agree that the pump could easily be bad - after all you were successful with another pump, right? - or the physics of the matter might be defeating you - you said you are small, right?

Me, I'd take the advice and get my bike and the pump to the LBS. If the pump is the culprit, toss the thing right there and get one that works. Test the very pump you are planning to buy right there in the store. Don't take home one that fights you.

Finally, once you get the pumping tires thing straightened out (and you WILL), and have more questions, come back here and ask. Please. We live but to serve.