Compound vs. Isolation Exercises – What’s the Difference?

So, you’ve probably heard of isolation and compound exercises, but what are they?

The fitness world can be so confusing with so many terms and exercises to remember, compound and isolation exercises included! Read on to know why compound and isolation exercises are so important and how you can work them into your routine.

Isolation exercises are exercises that focus strictly on one muscle group for a single joint.

Compound exercises includes multiple joints and muscle groups, working a larger area than isolation exercises.

So, depending on the goals you have set for yourself, you can improve your health by working both into your workout routine.

Compound Exercises

Compound exercises work more muscles, so as a result, it takes less time to do them than isolation exercises.

So for those of you with less time on your hands, compound exercises may be for you! Every movement we perform in our daily lives (like sitting, playing basketball, or putting away the dishes) are compound movements, so they are a more practical option.

Also, compound exercises are great for those looking to lose weight, as they can create a quick change in your body composition.

Isolation Exercises

Isolation exercises also have their place in fitness – especially for those looking to really tone and define specific body areas.

So, these exercises are recommended for advanced lifters who want to isolate certain muscle groups that they want to be larger or more defined. So, if you are including isolation exercises, you will benefit by performing them at the end of your workout after doing compound exercises.

Here’s a list of several well-known compound or isolation exercises.

Not sure how to perform these exercises safely, or just want some extra motivation to help reach your goals?

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