The Claim
Doing extra arm exercises along with big compound lifts like squats and presses makes arms a little bigger, but doesn’t make you stronger than doing just the big lifts alone.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
Doing extra arm exercises along with big compound lifts like squats and presses makes arms a little bigger, but doesn’t make you stronger than doing just the big lifts alone.
See the scientific wording
Adding single-joint exercises to a multijoint resistance training program in untrained young women is associated with a slightly greater increase in flexed arm circumference (4.39% vs. 3.50%) after 8 weeks of training, but no additional improvement in muscle strength across elbow extension, elbow flexion, or knee extension.
What the research says
1 studyAdding arm-specific exercises to a full-body workout made arms slightly bigger in young women, but didn’t make them stronger than just doing the big compound exercises alone.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.