Shrugs (Cable)

An isolation exercise for the traps muscles using a cable machine where you elevate the shoulders toward the ears with arms extended.

Instructions

1. Grasp a cable bar attachment that is attached to a low pulley with a shoulder width or slightly wider overhand (palms facing down) grip.
2. Stand erect close to the pulley with your arms extended in front of you holding the bar. This will be your starting position.
3. Lift the bar by elevating the shoulders as high as possible as you exhale. Hold the contraction at the top for a second. Tip: The arms should remain extended at all times. Refrain from using the biceps to help lift the bar. Only the shoulders should be moving up and down.
4. Lower the bar back to the original position.
5. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Tips

• Focus on elevating your shoulders straight up and avoid rolling them backward
• Keep your arms fully extended throughout the movement
• Use a weight heavy enough to challenge the traps but light enough to maintain form
• Squeeze the traps at the top of each repetition for maximum contraction
• Do not use momentum from your entire body; isolate the shoulder elevation