trapssmith machine

smith shrug

smith shrug is a common strength training exercise. Below are form tips, steps, and demos.

Steps

Step 1

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent.

Step 2

Grasp the barbell with an overhand grip, hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.

Step 3

Keep your arms straight and your shoulders relaxed.

Step 4

Lift your shoulders up towards your ears, squeezing your traps at the top.

Step 5

Hold for a moment, then slowly lower your shoulders back down to the starting position.

Muscles & body parts

Primary muscles

traps

Secondary muscles

shoulders

Primary body parts

back

Common mistakes & warnings

Form & control

Avoid momentum and excessive swing; keep core stable; match breath to movement; control the eccentric phase.

Control breathing and core; keep a steady tempo.

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