Abstract: An exercise apparatus and method comprises an internet enabled display device operatively connected to the exercise apparatus such as a treadmill allowing a user to exercise while using the internet for emailing, shopping or general browsing. At least one thumb activated input device is disposed on a gripping area of the apparatus allowing a user to control a pointing device while exercising. In order to motivate the user to maintain and meet optimum physiological reading parameters, the apparatus utilizes a control system that varies the output to the display device depending on the user's activity. If the heart-rate or other physiological reading indicator is outside of selected goal parameters, the display becomes less useable. As the user adjusts the level of exercise output and returns within the acceptable parameters, the display is restored to optimum usability.