I too have an ezup and it is much easier with 2 people. If I have to do it myself and am setting up on grass I'll anchor 2 corners in the ground and then "pull" apart. It works for me. If I'm next to or even close to someone that I see is having trouble I will gladly help them without even being asked. It's just good to help someone in need and only takes a few minutes.

I have been using e-z up for over five years. Three of them - they don't last that long, but maybe it's because I use it a minimum of twice a week - more during different seasons... I do it myself. It sounds like your e-z up is new. The more you use it, the less stiff it is. Use some spray silicon on the legs and NEVER plant your legs to the ground while putting them up or even holding the legs down with your foot. The legs are not meant to go straight down and will actually break with that treatment... I always carry the spray silicone and a wrench along with a screw that will fit thru the holes along with a nut that will fit - in case one breaks or falls out - If you are having problems setting up, get someone to help - you can in turn help them... Crafters are like that - helping each other... Hope this helps. I also carry bungee colds along with empty gallon milk containers filled with water so that I can hold down the tent in the wind on concrete and tent spikes to use in the grass (I carry a hammer to help with it)

It was only used 3 times when I bought it . Hopefully it will loosen up. Thanks for the advice !!!!

...ye, it'll loosen up for sure,

I've been "anchoring" mine down for a couple of years now and the legs on my ezup aren't bent at all.

I bought one recently for an upcoming show. Hubby and i set it up in the yard as a 'trial run' and it took both of us to get it done.... I guess it could be done w only one person, but I'd hate to know I had to do it by myself.

I hope it works out ok for the show later this month.
we caught it for $60 at DICks sporting goods (used to be Gaylan's) -- we thought it was a bargain.

Anita

...a 10' x 10'? That's a very good buy!!!