The importance of accessory work

And then you have accessory work, which is every bit as important as those big four lifts. “If you’re not physically capable or able to get into those positions, just exercising them over and over won’t make them any better,” says weight lifter Jenny Tong. “For example, squatting to your limit is great, but if your depth or mobility in the squat is inhibited by poor hip flexion or weak ankles, then adding weight onto your squat is going to risk injury.”

The fact that these “smaller exercises can work on opening up the body before going on to larger movements” is why they’re so important.

5 fundamental strength training moves you should include in your workouts