Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame, a pivot axis supported by the frame, a pedal lever, a coupler for pivotally coupling a first end of the pedal lever to the pivot axis at a predetermined distance from the pivot axis such that the first end moves in an arcuate pathway around the pivot axis, a guide member supported by the frame and engaging a second end of the pedal lever such that the second end of the pedal lever moves in a reciprocating pathway as the first end of the pedal lever moves in the arcuate pathway, and a pedal having a toe portion and a heel portion, the pedal being pivotally coupled with the second end of the pedal lever such that the toe portion is intermediate the heel portion and the pivot axis and the heel portion is raised above the toe portion when the second end moves in the reciprocating pathway in a direction away from the pivot axis.