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Barbell Shrug.

An isolation exercise specifically designed to build and strengthen the upper trapezius muscles.

BeginnerBarbell
Barbell Shrug
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.

  1. Step 01

    Stand upright, holding a barbell with an overhand grip, hands slightly wider than shoulder-width.

  2. Step 02

    Let the barbell hang in front of your thighs, arms fully extended.

  3. Step 03

    Keeping your arms straight, elevate your shoulders towards your ears.

  4. Step 04

    Squeeze your traps forcefully at the peak of the contraction.

  5. Step 05

    Hold the contraction briefly before slowly lowering your shoulders.

  6. 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.