5 compound exercises to facilitate all-round gains

With so many different weight exercises and drills it can be tricky to develop a favoured all-round workout. Indeed often it can be tricky to fit in time to focus solely on a muscle set. Therefore concentrating on compound exercises is the perfect way for that rounded session.

Compound exercises hone in on multiple muscle groups to hit multiple body areas in one go. So which ones should you try? We’ve picked out five workouts to facilitate all round gains.

 

Bent over row

Working your lats, upper arms and deltoid muscles, bent over rows provide a comprehensive barbell routine.

Starting with your legs slightly bent and an overhand grip on the barbell, slightly wider than shoulder width, bend your back to a 45 degree angle. Arch your back slightly and lift the bar up to your upper abs or lower pectorals before slowly moving the weight down again.

 

 

Dumbbell lunges

This exercise is a great all-round workout for your legs. Use heavy dumbbells to add tension and improve your grip technique in your lower arms before proceeding to smash out a set of between 8 and 12 reps. Working your glutes, hamstrings and thighs, this is an easy, yet comprehensive drill.

 

 

Squat jump into lunge

Use a lighter barbell this time, lifting it from the rack gently onto the back of your neck. With your feet shoulder width apart, jump straight up into the air and land in the squat position. As you complete the squat, flow straight into a lunge on each leg to complete one rep.

 

 

Zottman curl

This twist (literally) on a normal bicep curl makes a standard workout one of the simplest must-try compound exercises. Simply begin said bicep curl as normal, then, when fully contract rotate your wrist and forearm. With your palms facing down, lower the weight to give your forearms an equally rigorous toning.

 

 

Landmine Thruster

Perhaps one of the most overlooked pieces of equipment, the landmine offers  a wealth of possibilities. Thrusters are one of those compound exercises that works muscles all over your body, though it does focus on your legs, glutes and shoulders.

Start with the bar against your best, move into a squat position and return to a standing position with a bang. Explode upwards, extending your arms forwards at the same time as straightening your legs.

 

Are you a personal trainer? Before you try these with your clients, get a quick quote for our comprehensive personal trainer insurance.

 

*Disclaimer – This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation. Information is factually accurate at the time of publishing but may have become out of date. 

Last updated by

Bee Ingram Image

Bee Ingram

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.

For the small businesses we support, insurance and financial protection can sometimes seem complicated, especially when getting started. That’s why our content is designed to be clear and practical—providing helpful guidance and ensuring our customers not only find the specialist cover they require but are confident it will do the job they need.

 

 

Recent Blogs

The Competent Person Scheme (CPS) in the UK Image

Trades

The Competent Person Scheme (CPS) in the UK

If you’re a tradesperson in the UK, you’ve probably heard of the Competent Person Scheme (CPS). But what exac

Expenses you can claim for as a tradesman Image

Trades

Expenses you can claim for as a tradesman

As a tradesperson, running your business means facing various expenses, from tools and transport to insurance and

Expert tradespeople’s “tips and tricks” of the trade Image

Trades

Expert tradespeople’s “tips and tricks” of the trade

Spring is just around the corner, and millions of us will be planning to give our homes and gardens some TLC as t

Hiring or outsourcing staff – which is best for your small business? Image

Laws, rules and regulations

Hiring or outsourcing staff – which is best for your small business?

Assessing Costs, Productivity, and Market Trends in 2024-2025 The UK business landscape in 2025 presents both

Using social media for trades businesses Image

Trades

Using social media for trades businesses

Gone are the days when trade businesses relied solely on word-of-mouth or a well-placed ad in the local paper. To

How much can Carpenters and Joiners earn? Image

Trades

How much can Carpenters and Joiners earn?

Carpentry and joinery are two of the most important trades in the construction industry. While they both involve

Top 10 dog breeds in the UK Image

Pet Business

Top 10 dog breeds in the UK

There is no doubt that the UK is a nation of dog lovers, with some breeds standing out as favourites, but what’

Changes for employers from April 2025 Image

Laws, rules and regulations

Changes for employers from April 2025

There has been significant discussion about the evolving nature of employment laws in the UK this year, with chan

How to become a bricklayer Image

Trades

How to become a bricklayer

Do you love working with your hands, enjoy being outdoors, or want a career with solid earning potential, then br

10 mins read

How to price a job & win business Image

Trades

How to price a job & win business

Pricing a job correctly is one of the most important things you can do as a tradesperson. Charge too little, and

Simply find the insurance you need.