Patricia I’m sure one of the instructors will be able to give you a more technical answer. However, as a pilates student, I just did it a little at a time, raising for part of the exercise then putting it down. It took a while and I did have some discomfort at first. I am on the site for three years now and can now lift my head for exercises easily. There are some great beginner programs on here that may be helpful. Hang in there! 😀