Compound Exercise
An exercise that works multiple muscle groups and joints simultaneously.
Updated
Compound exercises are multi-joint movements that engage several muscle groups at once. They are considered the foundation of any strength training program because they allow you to lift heavier weights, burn more calories, and provide functional strength. Examples include squats, deadlifts, bench press, rows, and overhead press. These movements should form the core of most training programs.
Examples
- Squats work quads, glutes, hamstrings, and core
- Deadlifts work the entire posterior chain
- Bench press targets chest, shoulders, and triceps
Compound exercises
489 exercises in the library match this description.
Common questions
What is Compound Exercise?
An exercise that works multiple muscle groups and joints simultaneously. Compound exercises are multi-joint movements that engage several muscle groups at once.
What exercises train the Compound Exercise?
Good options include Kneeling Squat, Landmine 180's, Landmine Linear Jammer, Lateral Bound, Lateral Box Jump. Each links to a step-by-step guide with demonstration images.
What are examples of Compound Exercise?
Squats work quads, glutes, hamstrings, and core; Deadlifts work the entire posterior chain; Bench press targets chest, shoulders, and triceps.
Put it into practice
12-Week Muscle Building · £29
A 12-week, four-day hypertrophy plan in three phases, with a modest calorie surplus