Why is it important to perform heavy compound movements first in a workout?

Performing heavy compound movements first in a workout is crucial because these exercises are primarily about maximizing strength gains and ensuring energy is utilized effectively. Compound movements, such as squats, deadlifts, and bench presses, engage multiple muscle groups and require significant energy and focus to execute correctly. By prioritizing these lifts at the beginning of the workout, when the body is fresh and the nervous system is most capable, you set the foundation for lifting the heaviest weights possible.

This approach helps in developing overall strength, as your body can handle heavier loads when it isn’t fatigued from other exercises. If these heavy lifts were done after isolating movements, muscle fatigue could compromise form and performance, potentially leading to diminished strength gains and increasing the risk of injury. Therefore, strategically placing compound movements at the start of the workout aligns with best practices for optimizing performance and ensuring safe execution of these demanding exercises.