Abstract: An exercise resistance mechanism provides resistance to unwinding of a flexible line from about a reel. In a preferred embodiment, an arbor is mounted on a shaft by a one-way clutch in such a manner that the arbor rotates in one direction together with the shaft, and rotates in a second, opposite direction relative to the shaft. A first portion of the arbor is connected to an end of a spring extending from a recoil spring pack. A second portion of the arbor is connected to the reel in such a manner that the reel rotates together with the arbor. The arbor and spring end are in full view during assembly of the resistance mechanism. Two holes are provided near the hub of the reel so that a replacement line can be secured to the reel while the original flexible line remains connected thereto and provides a handle for maintaining tension in the recoil spring.