Isolating the Abs, Calves, and Arms: Why Do It?

In the world of fitness and bodybuilding, the debate over isolation exercises for specific muscle groups like the arms, calves, and abs is almost as old as the discipline itself. The central question revolves around whether engaging in the big lifts—those compound movements that recruit multiple muscle groups simultaneously—is sufficient for developing these smaller yet aesthetically significant muscles or if targeted isolation work is required for optimal growth and strength gains.