I think people over credit the importance of being able to squat, bench and deadlift. I like them as much of the next guy, but I also believe there are exercises that are just as if not more effective at working those muscle groups.
You’re absolutely right, but a large part of the value of those lifts in particular is that they let you participate in and feel like a part of the gym community, especially when starting out
3
Anonymous#11w
They also provide a benchmark for comparison between lifters, so you can generally know how much weight you have to be able to move in order to achieve your ideal physique