The Claim
For untrained individuals, exercise selection between single-joint and multi-joint exercises should be based on practical considerations including equipment availability, movement specificity, individual preferences, and time commitment rather than anticipated differences in strength or hypertrophy outcomes.
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.
For beginners, it doesn't really matter whether you do exercises that work one joint (like bicep curls) or multiple joints (like squats) - what matters is what equipment you have, what movements feel natural, what you enjoy, and how much time you have. The muscles will grow about the same either way.
See the scientific wording
Exercise selection between single-joint and multi-joint exercises for untrained individuals should be based on practical considerations such as equipment availability, movement specificity, individual preferences, and time commitment rather than expected differences in strength or hypertrophy outcomes
What the research says
1 studyStudy: Single vs. Multi-Joint Resistance Exercises: Effects on Muscle Strength and Hypertrophy
The study compared two types of weight exercises - ones using multiple joints (like lat pull-downs) versus single-joint exercises (like bicep curls) - and found both types build muscle and strength equally well in beginners. Since there's no real difference in results, it makes sense to pick exercises based on what works better for you practically.
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.