Abstract: A variable resistance exercise apparatus is disclosed specifically adapted to provide an improved method or aerobic and anaerobic exercising of the upper extremities and upper body portion of a user. The apparatus is characterized by the use of a hand crank assembly adjustably positioned at a vertical height above a support platform to cause a user to reach and twist during exercise upon the apparatus. The length of the hand crank assembly may be adjusted to accommodate differing extremity lengths of the particular user and the exercise resistance load applied to the hand crank may be varied to accommodate both professional athletic training as well as residential fitness programs.