An exercise apparatus providing a User multiple different exercises, including both resistance movements and isometrics. The User interacts with the apparatus by grasping a bar. A resistance mechanism is symmetrically mounted on a second bar and provides infinitely variable resistance to the User, as well as soundproof operation. A vertical column allows infinite positioning of the bars for different exercises, and a bench provides support. The User can change the exercise resistance by verbal commands, or the apparatus can sense the torque applied by the user to the apparatus and vary the exercise resistance in response to the force applied by the User or the speed at which the user is moving the bar. The apparatus can be battery powered and operated at locations where electric service is unavailable, or in zero gravity. To verify accuracy, the resistance can be calibrated against a known quantity of weight.