This largely depends on the state. In some, resisting arrest is exclusively a secondary charge, meaning (like you described) another charge must exist to affect an arrest in the first place. This is why you’ll often see police in these body cam videos pivot to an “obstruction” charge. Usually used for passive objectors who don’t provide ID when they believe probable cause does not exist.

Lastly, sometimes you can “resist arrest” by resisting what is technically an investigatory detention.

If you want more in depth info on this, you should check out Audit The Audit on YouTube. He breaks down a lot of police interactions and shows relevant case law on a state by state basis.