An apparatus for false twisting a yarn is provided which comprises, in one embodiment, a pair of endless belts mounted for rotation to define a twisting zone between opposing friction surfaces thereof. A pressure applying member is mounted adjacent the back side of each belt for biasing the belts toward each other locally at the twisting zone so as to firmly engage the yarn passing through the twisting zone and while the friction surfaces remain in substantially non-contacting relationship with respect to each other. The pressure applying member preferably utilizes an air cushion between the member and back side of the belt to minimize friction. In another embodiment, the apparatus comprises an endless belt in association with a disc mounted for rotation about an axis disposed perpendicular to the runs of the belt, and in a further embodiment, the endless belt is associated with a roller mounted adjacent the runs of the belt.