Technically you don't even need to do free weights at all. Sure, they're optimal, but also very intimidating for new people. Swapping a squat with leg press is totally fine for example. As long as you're doing some sort of compound movements you're making progress.
This doesn't apply as much to more experienced lifters that require more stimulus to see adaptations, but they ready know what works for them anyway.
userrnam t1_j5jzfie wrote
Reply to LPT: To get the most muscle/sculpting for your buck at the gym, focus on compound lifts—the exercises that recruit multiple muscle groups. You only really need overhead press, bench press, squat, deadlift, rows, dips, and maybe pull-ups. These will give you most workout for the energy you put forth. by [deleted]
Technically you don't even need to do free weights at all. Sure, they're optimal, but also very intimidating for new people. Swapping a squat with leg press is totally fine for example. As long as you're doing some sort of compound movements you're making progress.
This doesn't apply as much to more experienced lifters that require more stimulus to see adaptations, but they ready know what works for them anyway.