Compound exercise
A compound exercise moves more than one joint.
Compound exercise: a practical example
For example, a squat involves movement at the hips and knees.
Use it in your log
When you log your workout, keep this in mind: compound describes joint movement, not whether an exercise is automatically better for your needs.
Next, use the workout log to keep names, weights and reps in one place. Then check your progress across sessions.
Related terms
These examples explain terms. They do not tell you what to lift. If you need help with a plan, ask a qualified trainer.
Updated October 22, 2026. For more context, read the ACSM training guide (2009). However, terms can vary by plan.