Shoulder shrug with barbell grip wide
IntermediateUpdated 27/02/2026
Position

Muscle map

Starting position
4
How to perform it
Bring the ribs and pelvis closer with a short, controlled trunk flexion. Avoid pulling on the head or using momentum to finish the repetition. Use a steady tempo: control the return phase in particular and avoid relying on momentum. Exhale through the hardest part and inhale as you recover the starting position.
Muscles worked
shouldersneck and trapezius upper
Tips
Check that the movement stays stable in both directions and that the torso is not compensating. The goal is controlled loading of shoulders and neck and upper trapezius; match resistance and range to a intermediate level and never force a painful repetition.