Barbell Shrugs
Quick answer
Barbell Shrugs is a beginner isolation barbell exercise that mainly works the traps.
Written by the GymStreak coaching team
Muscles worked
Primary
How to do Barbell Shrugs
- 1
Stand up straight with your chest out, holding a barbell (or EZ bar) in your arms with an overhand grip and your palms facing backward. Your hands should be shoulder width apart on the barbell. This is your starting position.
- 2
Raise your shoulders up, focusing on contracting your traps and trying to touch your shoulders to your ears.
- 3
At the top of the movement, hold the contraction for a full second before slowly returning to the starting position.
Form cues
- Perform the reps slowly and in a controlled manner. Rushing this exercise can lead to injury.
- Look up slightly when doing this exercise to enhance the trap contraction.
- Avoid using bouncing or swinging motions as you lift the weight.
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