The 10 Best Exercises for Overall Fitness

Build strength and stamina with proven moves like squats, planks, lunges, and push-ups — no equipment needed.

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to the best exercises — but some movements are widely effective for building strength, mobility, and fitness.

Here are 10 of the best all-round exercises:

  1. Squats – full-body lower strength

  2. Lunges – legs and balance

  3. Push-ups – upper body and core

  4. Planks – core stability

  5. Burpees – full-body and cardio

  6. Jumping jacks – simple cardio

  7. Mountain climbers – full-body and endurance

  8. Sit-ups – abdominal strength

  9. Side planks – obliques and shoulder stability

  10. Pull-ups – challenging upper-body strength


You can do many of these with no equipment. Focus on form, progress gradually, and choose movements that feel right for your body.