Deadlift vs Squat: Differences, Pros, & Cons

Two of the most common movements in any program are the deadlift and squat. Many believe they are the same type of movement. However, they are very different exercises. So, let’s compare deadlift vs squat: what’s the difference? The deadlift is a pulling exercise that requires the athlete to lift resistance in front of their body, … Continue ReadingDeadlift vs Squat: Differences, Pros, & Cons

Arnold Press vs. Shoulder Press: Differences, Pros, Cons

The Arnold press is a fantastic shoulder exercise, and like other shoulder presses, it can be a staple in any solid training program. With most exercises, there can be many variations. Here, we are looking at two of the classics; the Arnold press and the standard shoulder press.  Both of these exercises share many of … Continue ReadingArnold Press vs. Shoulder Press: Differences, Pros, Cons

Trap Bar Deadlifts vs Squats: Front & Back (Pros, Cons, Differences)

Trap bar deadlifts, back squats, and front squats are always in the mix when taking your leg training to the next level. But how do you know which one is best for your goals? What are the differences between the trap bar deadlift vs. squat? Trap bar deadlifts are hip-dominant movements, allowing you to step … Continue ReadingTrap Bar Deadlifts vs Squats: Front & Back (Pros, Cons, Differences)

Front Squat vs Back Squat: Pros, Cons, & Differences

The front squat and back squat might seem like they’re interchangeable, but they have some important differences and specific applications! So what are the differences between front squats and back squats? Back squats are better for beginners or those primarily looking to develop max strength. Front squats are better if you’re looking for maximal quadriceps … Continue ReadingFront Squat vs Back Squat: Pros, Cons, & Differences

Trap Bar Deadlift vs. Conventional: Differences, Pros, Cons

Although there are many variations of the deadlift, the trap bar deadlift and conventional deadlift are two of the most common. I’ve been successfully using both deadlift variations for the last seven years, both in my training and with hundreds of clients. But before deciding whether you should do one over the other, you should … Continue ReadingTrap Bar Deadlift vs. Conventional: Differences, Pros, Cons

Olympic Lifting vs Powerlifting for Fitness: Pros & Cons

Each style of lifting can have major benefits for people seeking fitness. Both involve intense whole-body training using multi-joint lifts. Olympic lifting (snatch and the clean and jerk) involves highly precise explosive movements lifting the weight from the floor to overhead. Powerlifting (squat, bench press, and deadlift) consists of slower movements done with high muscle intensity. Having … Continue ReadingOlympic Lifting vs Powerlifting for Fitness: Pros & Cons

Push Press vs. Overhead Press: Differences, Pros, and Cons

To the untrained eye, the push press and overhead press may look like the same lift. Some even use the names interchangeably, thinking it’s the same lift, but it’s not. There are key differences in the execution and purpose of each lift and what they train.  So what is the difference between the push press … Continue ReadingPush Press vs. Overhead Press: Differences, Pros, and Cons

Bent-Over Row vs Upright Row: Pros, Cons, and Differences

Just because two exercises are rowing exercises doesn’t make them equal or even very similar, and that’s exactly the case with the bent-over row and the upright row. Although the names make them sound so much alike, how do you differentiate when to use each and which is right for you and your current goals? … Continue ReadingBent-Over Row vs Upright Row: Pros, Cons, and Differences

Squats Vs Sumo Squats: Pros, Cons, and Differences

Squat variations are plentiful, and it’s helpful to know which ones are truly useful, how they are beneficial, and whether or not you should give them any attention. One variation commonly seen in the gym is the sumo squat. But how similar/different is it when compared to the traditional squat? Sumo squats differ from squats … Continue ReadingSquats Vs Sumo Squats: Pros, Cons, and Differences