Exercise library · Back
Dumbbell Shrug.
An isolation exercise specifically designed to build mass and strength in the upper trapezius muscles.
BeginnerDumbbells

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 tall with a dumbbell in each hand, arms extended at your sides.
- Step 02
Keep your chest up and shoulders back.
- Step 03
Elevate your shoulders straight up towards your ears as high as possible.
- Step 04
Squeeze your upper traps forcefully at the peak of the movement.
- Step 05
Hold the contraction briefly.
- Step 06
Slowly lower the dumbbells back to the starting position, feeling a stretch in your traps.
What separates good from great
Pro cues.
Avoid rolling your shoulders, as this can cause injury.
Focus on a strict up-and-down movement.
Use wrist straps if grip becomes a limiting factor with heavy loads.