Barbell Shrug
The barbell shrug is a back exercise that targets the traps with barbell. Watch the demo, then follow the step-by-step form guide below.
One rep, playing on a loop. Use the controls to pause it or scrub through the movement.
How to do the barbell shrug
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.
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.
Slowly return to the starting position as you breathe in.
Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Want this in a plan?
Build a weekly routine around the barbell shrug and the rest of your back work, matched to your goal and the equipment you have.
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Related back exercises
Browse all back exercises, read our best dumbbell back exercises guide, or return to the exercise library.
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Educational information only — not medical advice. Stop if you feel pain and talk to your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise program.
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