An apparatus for training the upper extremities is taught and claimed. The invention comprises a paddle subassembly adapted to slidingly engage with a mount subassembly. A user interacts with the apparatus by pulling on a climbing hold located on the paddle subassembly. The paddle subassembly offers increasing resistance to the user, thus increasing the strength and endurance of the muscle groups exercised. Resistance elements such as, for example, bungee cords and the like are used to provide resistance. The climbing hold is interchangeable, thus allowing the use of various styles and shapes of climbing holds in order to provide a variety of strength exercises for the hands. The slide of the invention is adapted to rotate to a plurality of discrete angles. The invention is particularly useful and training the muscles of the fingers, hands, wrists and forearms in preparation for rock climbing activities.