Back exercise

Scapular Pull-Up

TrapsBeginner

The scapular pull-up is a back exercise that targets the traps. 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 scapular pull-up

  1. Take a pronated grip on a pull-up bar.

  2. From a hanging position, raise yourself a few inches without using your arms. Do this by depressing your shoulder girdle in a reverse shrugging motion.

  3. Pause at the completion of the movement, and then slowly return to the starting position before performing more repetitions.

Details

Primary muscles
Traps
Secondary muscles
LatsMiddle back
Equipment & classification
BodyweightLevel: BeginnerForce: PullMechanic: Isolation

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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