Abstract: An exercise apparatus for performing forward and/or lateral extension type exercises has one or more grip means in combination with a guide means. The grip means comprises a handle means, such as a shaft, around which the hand can be wrapped during use, and upon which the weight of the user can be applied through the hands. The grip means also comprise a means for permitting sliding or rolling movement of the grip means within conforming guide means. These movement means may be wheels located rotatably on the handle shaft, or simply a low-friction undersurface for sliding movement. The guide means also has adjustable stop means for fixing the distance along which the grip means are permitted to move within the guide means.