How to perform Barbell Shrug with proper form

Starting Position

  1. Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart.
  2. Hold a barbell with both hands using a grip slightly wider than shoulder-width.
  3. Allow the barbell to rest against your thighs, arms fully extended.

Execution

  1. Engage Core: Keep your core tight to stabilize your body.
  2. Lift Shoulders: Raise your shoulders straight up towards your ears. Avoid rolling your shoulders forward or backward.
  3. Pause: Hold the peak position for a brief moment while maintaining tension in your traps.
  4. Lower Shoulders: Slowly lower your shoulders back to the starting position, fully extending your arms.

Key Points

  • Keep your neck neutral; avoid leaning your head forward or backward.
  • Maintain a straight back throughout the movement.
  • Focus on using your trapezius muscles rather than using momentum.