This really does need to be a case-by-case basis decision. I would say isolation movements will invarably offer a lower return on investment than their compound counterparts, but there will always be circumstances in which isolation movements are helpful and even necessary. I think neck training is the best example--technically moving the c-spine is a multi-joint exercise, of course, but not in the traditional sense. But for fighters, footballers, etc, neck training is a must in my opinion, and whether it's bridging, band work, or neck harness work, it's essentially isolation work.
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