Decline Shrug demonstration

Decline Shrug

Learn how to do the Decline Shrug with proper form, setup, and execution.

This dumbbell movement primarily targets back, including upper back.

How to Perform Decline Shrug

  1. 1

    Grab a pair of dumbbells and lie face down on a decline bench.

  2. 2

    Let your arms hang straight down on either side of the bench with your palms facing each other.

  3. 3

    Engage your abs and take a breath.

  4. 4

    Shrug your shoulders straight up toward your ears as high as possible, squeezing your traps at the top and exhale.

  5. 5

    Slowly lower your shoulders back to the starting position and breathe in.

  6. 6

    Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Training Guidelines

The targets below are general guidelines. Adjust volume and intensity based on your experience, recovery, and goals. If you track effort, aim for most working sets around RPE 7–9.

GoalSetsRepsRest
Strength3-54-62-3 min
Muscle Growth3-48-1260-90 sec
Endurance2-315-2030-60 sec
Beginner2-310-1560-90 sec

Want to pair movements efficiently? Try grouping them as supersets.

Frequently Asked Questions