Exercise library · Back
Barbell Shrug.
An isolation exercise specifically designed to build and strengthen the upper trapezius muscles.
BeginnerBarbell

The numbers
Sets
3–4
Reps
10–15
Rest
45–75
Muscles
Primary
Upper traps
Secondary
Forearms
The play-by-play
How to do it.
- Step 01
Stand upright, holding a barbell with an overhand grip, hands slightly wider than shoulder-width.
- Step 02
Let the barbell hang in front of your thighs, arms fully extended.
- Step 03
Keeping your arms straight, elevate your shoulders towards your ears.
- Step 04
Squeeze your traps forcefully at the peak of the contraction.
- Step 05
Hold the contraction briefly before slowly lowering your shoulders.
- Step 06
Return to the starting position, allowing a full stretch in your traps.
What separates good from great
Pro cues.
Avoid rolling your shoulders; move them straight up and down.
Use a controlled motion; do not bounce the weight.
Focus on feeling the contraction in your upper traps.