Learn more about squats and deadlifts

Squats and deadlifts are both highly effective compound exercises, but they engage slightly different muscle groups and emphasize different areas of the body.

Squats

The pros of performing squats for increasing muscle growth include:

• They engage multiple muscle groups and joints, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, calves and core.
• They are a functional movement, as they mimic a natural movement pattern that humans do in everyday life, making them functional for daily activities and promoting overall lower body strength.
• There are lots of squat variations (such as front squats, back squats, goblet squats, and single-leg squats), so you’ll be able to find a variation that you enjoy and that is most effective for you.

The cons of performing squats for increasing muscle growth include:

• Squats require proper form to avoid injury. Beginners may need time to develop the necessary mobility and technique.
• Squats carry the potential for knee injuries or back injuries if performed incorrectly.

Deadlifts

The pros of performing deadlifts for increasing muscle growth include:

• Deadlifts are compound movements that engage multiple muscle groups, including the back, glutes, hamstrings, core and forearms.
• They are excellent for building overall strength and power, making them beneficial for athletes and those aiming for functional strength.
• They emphasize the posterior chain, contributing to the development of the muscles along the back of the body.

The cons of performing deadlifts for increasing muscle growth include:

• Deadlifts carry a risk of lower back strain or back injuries
• Deadlifts aren’t ideal for everybody, and some people might find them difficult, uncomfortable, or ineffective