The best exercise for strength can vary depending on your goals, preferences, and physical condition. However, compound exercises are generally regarded as highly effective for building overall strength as they engage multiple muscle groups at once. Some of the best compound exercises for strength include:
Squats: Squats primarily target your quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes but also engage your core and lower back muscles for stability.
Deadlifts: Deadlifts work your posterior chain, including your hamstrings, glutes, lower back, and grip strength. They're excellent for overall strength and functional movement.
Bench Press: The bench press primarily targets your chest, shoulders, and triceps but also engages your core for stabilization.
Pull-ups : Pull-ups and chin-ups are fantastic for upper body strength, particularly targeting your back, biceps, and shoulders.
Overhead Press: Overhead press, whether with a barbell or dumbbells, targets your shoulders, triceps, and upper chest, helping to build upper body strength and stability.
Bent-over Row : This exercise targets your upper back, lats, and biceps, helping to balance out the pushing movements of exercises like bench presses.