A grip assembly has a core having a longitudinal axis and anchor interfaces on opposite ends, an exercise band with elastic properties, one end furled around the core, and the other, loose end extending away from the core, and a keeper strap having attachment interfaces at opposite ends compatible with the anchor interfaces of the core, the attachment interfaces engaged to the ancho interfaces of the core, the keeper strap spanning the length of the core, intimately contacting the furled exercise band. The keeper strap constrains the furled exercise band from unfurling.