Atlas
Dumbbell Shrug: starting position Dumbbell Shrug: end position

Shrug & High Pull · Traps & mid back

Dumbbell Shrug

A shrug & high pull exercise that works the traps & mid back. Beginner level, using dumbbells.

BeginnerDumbbellsGymHome

Muscles worked

Upper traps.

Setup and loading

Palms facing your body.

How to do the dumbbell shrug step by step

  1. Stand with a dumbbell in each hand at your sides.
  2. Shrug your shoulders as high as possible.
  3. Hold for one second and lower.

Form cues

  • Arms straight
  • Pause at the top

Common mistakes

  • Rolling your shoulders
Advertisement

Sets and reps for your goal

Hypertrophy

3 x 10-15 · rest 60 s

3-4 sets of 6-12 reps (up to 15-20 on isolation exercises) at 65-80% of your max. Rest 1 to 2 minutes.

Get close to failure (0-3 reps in reserve) and control the lowering for 2-3 seconds. Accumulate 10-20 sets per muscle per week.

A guide for healthy adults. Adjust the load to your level and see a professional if you have an injury.

Check your form

Film yourself from the side or ask someone to watch, then tick what you get right.

0 of 2

Sports it suits

Gear for this exercise

  • Adjustable dumbbellsSave space and replace a whole dumbbell rack at home.

As an Amazon Associate, Muscle Atlas earns from qualifying purchases.

Variations and similar exercises

Advertisement