Abstract: A user interface console for programming exercise parameters relating to the operation of an exercise device, including a display for displaying the value of each of the exercise parameters and a selector for selecting one of the exercise parameters to be programmed. The interface console further includes a programmer for programming the selected exercise parameter with a desired value; the programmer includes an encoder unit having a rotatable shaft, wherein the user programs the selected exercise parameter by rotating the rotatable shaft. In response, the encoder unit generates electrical signals representative of the incremental motion of the rotatable shaft. The interface console further includes a microprocessor, coupled to the programming means and the display, for receiving the electrical signals and for responsively adjusting the value of the selected exercise parameter.