Abstract: An exercise machine for simulating the stroke of a canoe paddle is disclosed. A tube is pivotably mounted on the longitudinal axis of a frame. A paddle-like shaft is pivotally connected to a frictional resistance element sidably mounted on the tube. The frictional resistance element provides greater resistance to movement in one directional sense than to movement in the other directional sense to that the stroke and return stroke of a canoe paddle can be simulated. The frictional resistance element is formed of an outer member having a conical inner surface and an inner member having a conical outer surface, the inner member being fabricated into two halves on either side of a longitudinal plane. The tube passes through a longitudinal bore of the inner member, the bore being lined with frictional material. Forces acting to move the frictional resistance element in a first direction cause the outer member to compress the halves of the inner member as a function of the cone angle.