Barbell Shrug

Muscles Worked

How to Perform

1. 1

   Set up in a stable stance or seated position with the barbell gripped at the appropriate width.

2. 2

   Isolate the target muscle by keeping all other joints locked in position. Only the working joint should move.

3. 3

   Move through the full range of motion with deliberate control. Squeeze at peak contraction.

4. 4

   Lower the weight slowly. If you cannot control the eccentric, reduce the load.

Common Mistakes

• Using too much weight and compensating with other muscle groups. Isolation demands strict form over ego loads.

• Rushing through reps without controlling the eccentric. The lowering phase should be 2-3 seconds minimum.

• Cutting the range of motion short. Full range builds more muscle and healthier joints.

Pro Tips

• Hold the top of every shrug for 2-3 seconds. The traps respond extremely well to peak contraction holds.

• Think "ears to shoulders" rather than rolling your shoulders. Shrugs should be a straight up-and-down motion.

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