Barbell Shrug

Barbell Shrug — Start position
Start position
Barbell Shrug — End position
End position
Region
Shoulder & Scapula
Equipment
Barbell
Category
Strength
Level
Beginner
Mechanic
isolation
Force
pull

Muscles worked

  • traps

Filled = primary · Outlined = secondary

Source: Free Exercise DB (public domain)

How to perform

  1. Stand up straight with your feet at shoulder width as you hold a barbell with both hands in front of you using a pronated grip (palms facing the thighs). Tip: Your hands should be a little wider than shoulder width apart. You can use wrist wraps for this exercise for a better grip. This will be your starting position.

  2. Raise your shoulders up as far as you can go as you breathe out and hold the contraction for a second. Tip: Refrain from trying to lift the barbell by using your biceps.

  3. Slowly return to the starting position as you breathe in.

  4. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

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