Vigorous leg work is definitely your number one consideration when putting together a workout routine. In my 20s I attempted to gain without employing the squat or deadlift in my workouts - big mistake! Due to their core training properties, I make sure to include either the squat or deadlift in my workouts, and my only regret is that I didn't utilize these compound movements sooner.
If you want to get in shape, and gain some fitness, these core training exercises will certainly do it for you!