A free weight lifting apparatus adapted for to return of a Free Weight Barbell (6) to a stationary barbell support rack (3), without other ancillary assistance, for a lone exerciser participating in a variety of free weight lifting exercises, including negative lift exercises. A reciprocating frame assembly (2) adapted for the upward and rearward travel of a Free Weight Barbell (6) in the direction of the stationary barbell support rack (3). The reciprocal frame assembly is comprised of a pair of horizontal arms (4) with an electrical switch (11) secured to each arm and a sleeve (5) pivoted over each switch (11). The reciprocal frame (2) reciprocates in or about a fixed vertical frame (1). The frame (2) is raised and lowered by an hydraulic cylinder (8) which is powered by an electrically driven pump (24). The electrical switches (11) are activated when the free weight barbell (6) depresses the sleeves (5) and are deactivated when the barbell automatically rolls off the sleeves and re-positions itself on the support rack.