Abstract: An exercise device having an insert slidably coupled within a base; a compression element (e.g., a helical spring) located within a cavity formed by the base and the insert; an extension element (e.g., an elastic band) extending through the cavity; and opposing handles connected to opposing ends of the extension element. When the device is in its equilibrium state with no external longitudinal forces applied to the handles, the spring is slightly compressed and the elastic band is slightly extended with the resulting forces keeping the components of the device together. When the opposing handles are moved closer together, the elastic band is relaxed and the spring is further compressed. When the opposing handles are moved further apart, the elastic band is further extended, but the spring is not relaxed.

Abstract: In various embodiments, an apparatus for exercising can include a housing, a first inner tube, a second inner tube, and a compression spring operable to resist motion when compressed. The first inner tube is coupled with a first end of the compression spring and the second inner tube is coupled with a second end of the compression spring. In addition, the apparatus can also include an extension spring inside the housing. Furthermore, a portion of the compression spring and a portion of each of the first and second inner tubes are inside the housing. Note that a first end of the extension spring is coupled with a first handle or loop and the second end of the extension spring is coupled with a second handle or loop. The extension spring is operable to provide resistance during pulling motion away from center of the apparatus.