Cable Shrugs
Quick answer
Cable Shrugs is a beginner isolation cable exercise that mainly works the traps.
Written by the GymStreak coaching team
Muscles worked
Primary
How to do Cable Shrugs
- 1
Set the weight on one side of the cable machine. Adjust the position of the pulley so that it is at the lowest point. Make sure you are using a straight bar or EZ attachment and hold your hands with an overhand grip (Palms facing down) about shoulder width apart. Stand straight with your feet shoulder width apart. 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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