Barbell Shrug Behind The Back
The barbell shrug behind the back is a back exercise that targets the traps with barbell. Watch the demo, then follow the step-by-step form guide below.
Looping demonstration — tap play to watch the full movement.
How to do the barbell shrug behind the back
Stand up straight with your feet at shoulder width as you hold a barbell with both hands behind your back using a pronated grip (palms facing back). Tip: Your hands should be a little wider than shoulder width apart. You can use wrist wraps for this exercise for 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. The arms should remain stretched out at all times.
Slowly return to the starting position as you breathe in.
Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Details
Related back exercises
Browse all back exercises, see our roundup of the best dumbbell back exercises, 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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