Compound exercises, or compound movements, are considered the most efficient way to structure your workouts and are often used by top personal trainers and fitness instructors. These movements involve multiple muscles and recruit all of the muscles that help to flex one joint. Compound exercises can mimic everyday activities such as lifting heavy items, reaching higher shelves, or carrying groceries, according to Scott Thompson, global athletics director at F45 Training. While isolation exercises involve only one joint, compound exercises can grow specific muscle groups. The variety of compound movements can increase motivation and consistency, leading to sustainable fitness goals long term. Additionally, the physical benefits include increased coordination and increased heart rate.