Barbell shrug
Shoulders · Barbell
Set up
A barbell, taken from a rack at about thigh height rather than lifted from the floor.
Steps
- Stand tall holding the bar in front of your thighs, hands just wider than your hips.
- Lift your shoulders straight up towards your ears.
- Pause for a second at the top.
- Lower your shoulders slowly all the way down.
Keep in mind
- Straight up and down; don't roll your shoulders
- Arms stay straight
- Keep your head still, eyes ahead
Common mistake
Rolling your shoulders in circles. Move straight up and down only.
Safety
Put the bar back in the rack at the end rather than lowering it to the floor.
Stop and rest if you feel chest pain, dizziness, unusual shortness of breath or sharp joint pain. Get medical help if it doesn't settle.