An apparatus for performing an arm curl exercise includes an input arm assembly having a first arm and a second arm. The second arm is interconnected to a resistance mechanism at a point of interconnection on a distal end of the second arm rotatably pivotable around a linear axis along a generally forward to rearward or downward to upward path of travel under resistance exerted by the resistance mechanism. The input arm assembly is adapted such that, in a start motionless position, the manually graspable mechanism is disposed in a start exercise position vertically below and forwardly of a point of engagement the elbow of a user with an engaging surface when the user is seated on a seating surface of the apparatus in an orientation where the anterior surface of the user's trunk is facing generally forwardly. Also provided are methods of performing arm curl and pull down exercises.