Abstract: A variable resistance lifting mechanism for increasing the resistive force during an exercise stroke includes a lever arm pivotally attached to a frame at one end and slidably mounted through a linear bearing sleeve at a position remote from the pivot point. In one embodiment, the linear bearing sleeve is connected by a clevis pin to a housing slidable in a linear manner on guide bars. A bar secured to the housing is adapted to be attached to a predetermined number of weights. The weights are also slidable in a linear manner on the guide bars. In a second embodiment, the linear bearing sleeve is pivotally connected by the clevis pin directly to the bar adapted to the attached to the predetermined number of weights.