Limcogito Toolbox

Barbell Shrug

The barbell shrug is the simplest and most effective trap exercise. Lift straight up and do not roll the shoulders.

Primary muscles
Traps
Equipment
Barbell
Level
Beginner
Category
Strength

Photos

Barbell Shrug - step 1Barbell Shrug - step 2

Instructions

  1. Stand up straight with your feet at shoulder width as you hold a barbell with both hands in front of you using a pronated grip (palms facing the thighs). Tip: Your hands should be a little wider than shoulder width apart. You can use wrist wraps for this exercise for a better grip. This will be your starting position.
  2. Raise your shoulders up as far as you can go as you breathe out and hold the contraction for a second. Tip: Refrain from trying to lift the barbell by using your biceps.
  3. Slowly return to the starting position as you breathe in.
  4. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Exercise data and photos from free-exercise-db (Unlicense).