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The "big 3 lifts" are popular exercise for a reason

Discussion in 'Training' started by Zillagreybeard, Feb 22, 2022.
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Zillagreybeard
Zillagreybeard
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The “big 3 lifts” (Back Squats, Bench Press, and Deadlifts) are popular exercises for a reason. These exercises together help train a large group of muscles in an efficient way while using simple equipment. But unless you are a powerlifter that needs to practice Squats/Bench/Deadlifts frequently, the big 3 lifts are not “must-do” exercises.

Now, don’t get me wrong, I think most people can benefit from doing a squat variation, flat pressing, and hip hinge exercises like the deadlift. But I don’t think we should have a rigid adherence to a single exercise if it does not feel good. For example, if you struggle with getting the barbell squat form right, you can try an exercise that trains a similar movement pattern (like Split Squats). Or instead of doing Flat Barbell Benching, you can use dumbbells.

As long as you use alternative exercises that train the same primary movement patterns, your results will be similar. For instance, research shows Bulgarian split squats produce similar athletic performance improvements as back squats [1]. Also, dumbbell benching stimulates your chest muscles at least as well as a barbell bench [2].

So don’t limit yourself. There is no one-size-fits-all in training.

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