Weight Training Exercises
Weight training exercises can be classified as isolated and compound. Isolation exercises involve movements that are restricted to a single joint and muscle group. In this case, specialized equipment is used to make sure that other muscles have minimal involvement in the movement. Other muscles are only required to stabilize one’s posture. The knee joint is the main focus of movement. A majority of isolation exercises involve the use of machines as opposed to free weights such as dumbbells. Joint bracing and special positions can be used in combination with free weights. An example of isolation exercises is the leg extension. Learn more about Mark McCool here.
Compound exercises, on the other hand, make use of a large number of muscle groups at the same time. Two joints or more are included in the movement. Compound exercises are considered to be more natural than isolation exercises because they mimic the usual movements that are involved in common tasks such as lifting objects from the ground. Free weights such as barbells and dumbbells are used in compound exercises and this requires more muscles for the joints and body as a whole to be stabilized along with the movement of weight. An example of compound exercises is the leg press. The two types of exercises are used for different purposes.
Compound exercises are used to build basic strength that is necessary for daily activities. Isolation exercises are used to work on the muscles that are not exercised fully during compound exercises. Individual goals determine what type of exercise is most appropriate. If a person wants to be a better athlete, for example, compound exercises would be more ideal as isolation exercises would strengthen limited muscles.
Competitors who seek to improve their ability and power to lift weights would require compound exercises. If the desire to enhance the aesthetic appeal of one’s body and shape, isolation exercises would be the best option. Isolation exercises are ideal for individuals who do not consider strength gain maximization as a priority. In the general scheme of things, both types of exercises can be used.
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