The Get Bigger Guys

‘Compound Exercises’

Compound Exercises

Understanding what compound exercises are will not only increase your knowledge on fitness but will also help you build a better workout plan for you in the gym. I have touched on the fact that as a beginner you should stay away from machines. If you have yet to read that blog CLICK HERE and check it out after you read this.

Multi-Joint Movements 

Simply put a compound exercises is one that consists of using multi-joint movements. Which in short means; working several muscles and muscle groups at one time. This is not some secret or hidden truth kept from you by the elite! Compound movements are called “the basics” for a reason! By incorporating more of these into your routines it will help you build bigger and stronger muscles. Power lifters are famous for their size and strength and they primarily train with compound movements!

 Build and Strengthen!

You see, since compound exercises work out multiple muscles at the same time you can build and strengthen all those secondary muscles easily and mindlessly. Athletes actually use these types of explosive multi-joint movements more often then isolation ones simply because it helps you get more out of your workout routines.

Anyone can head over to the gym and get on a machine and build up specific muscles easily. However in the long run it would be far more beneficial to use compound movements in your training routine. Here’s an example; It’s leg day and you are doing squats. Well this compound movement not only works out your quads (your primary muscle), but it also works out your hamstrings, glutes, calves, lower back and also yours core. All of this with one exercise!

Don’t Believe Me?

It’s amazing just how effective compound exercises are and what they will do for your body in the gym. Still don’t believe me that using more muscle groups during a workout is a great idea check this out.

Using compound movements;

• Allow a full body workout faster
• Improve coordination, reaction and balance (great for athletes)
• Decreases the risk of injuries in sports
• Increases your heart rate and provides cardiovascular benefits
• Helps you burn more calories through increased metabolism
• Allows you to lift heavier and build more strength
• Increases testosterone levels!

As you can see, compound movements are absolutely necessary when it comes to adding major size and strength to your frame. Building muscle and burning fat by using these movements makes it a no brainer. But don’t worry you can still do your dumbbell curls and your pec deck, just make sure to do them after your compound movements. You should be aiming to incorporate at least 2 compound movements per workout. Some examples are, but certainly not limited to; Squat, Barbell Curls, Dead Lift, Bench Press, Pull-ups and Military Press. Follow the Links to find out more about each exercise.

Get Big!

-Zee-