A fitness training apparatus comprising: a base, at least one retractable line provided in or on the base, and a load generator provided in or on the base for applying a selectively adjustable load to the at least one retractable line. The retractable line has a free end region for operation by a user, wherein the at least one retractable line is configured and arranged to be extended from a retracted state in or on the base to an extended state upon application of a force to the free end region of the retractable line by the user. The load applied to the retractable line by the load generator resists or acts against the force applied to the free end region by the user for extending the retractable line from the retracted state to the extended state.