Strength Training: Compound exercises versus Isolation exercises

​Compound exercises are an important part of any fitness regime, whether you are a newcomer to the gym or not. Compound exercises, such as the barbell bench squat or barbell deadlift are the foundation of a solid workout. Whether your looking to gain muscle, lose weight or improve your fitness,  compound exercises can and should be a major part of your workouts or personal training sessions.
 
Compound exercises are key movements that require several muscle groups and joints to be working at the same time. They are different than isolation exercises, which are movements that only use one muscle group and joint at a time.
 
Some key examples of compound exercises are squats, push-ups, pull ups, deadlifts, and the overhead press, all of which engage more than one muscle and can be made more difficult by adding weight. 
 
Of course compound exercises are great and will make you stronger and fitter, but isolation exercises should not be neglected at the same time. Isolation exercises (such as lateral raises or bicep curls) are also great for correcting muscular imbalances and targeting specific weaknesses. Ideally, compound and isolation exercises should be used in tandem for a well rounded and balanced strength resistance training programme.