A mechanical exercise apparatus primarily intended to strengthen the muscles of the chest (especially the pectoralis major) through a repetitive pushing or pulling motion performed with the arms against the force of a weight. It typically consists of a metal frame containing a lever or pulley-cable system that incorporates changeable weights and bars and/or handles/hand stirrups for the user to grip and push or pull; also typically included is a bench for the user to sit or lay while performing the exercise (some exercises referred to as bench press). The device may also be used to help strengthen other upper-body muscles (e.g., deltoids, biceps, triceps).