Abstract: An exercise machine employing one or more flexible tension bands includes a pair of exercise arms rotatably mounted on frame members and being configured to be engaged by opposed hands of an individual. Vertically spaced apart connectors are located, respectively, on the exercise arms and on frame members vertically above or below the rotatable mount of the exercise arms. At least one elongate flexible tension band configured to be connected at vertically spaced apart locations to vertically spaced connectors, whereby rotation of the exercise arms in one of the upward or downward directions stretches the one or more flexible tension bands to create a tension force opposing the upward or downward direction of rotation of the exercise arms. The exercise arms can include rotatably connected inner and outer sections.