Dumbbell Shrug
The dumbbell shrug is a back exercise that targets the traps with dumbbell. 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 dumbbell shrug
Stand erect with a dumbbell on each hand (palms facing your torso), arms extended on the sides.
Lift the dumbbells by elevating the shoulders as high as possible while you exhale. Hold the contraction at the top for a second. Tip: The arms should remain extended at all times. Refrain from using the biceps to help lift the dumbbells. Only the shoulders should be moving up and down.
Lower the dumbbells back to the original position.
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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