1. A method for guiding a user through programming steps of an exercise console, the method comprising: providing a substantially fixed array of buttons interactive with a user; providing to the user a plurality of input options, each selectable in a pre-determined sequence by operation of the buttons and effective to program an exercise console thereby; selecting, by the user, at least one input option from the plurality of input options; determining which input options are available for selection by the user after selection of the at least one input option; and automatically indicating, to the user, which buttons and associated input options are next available for selection.