Trap Bar Shrug demonstration

Trap Bar Shrug

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

This trap bar movement primarily targets back, including upper back.

How to Perform Trap Bar Shrug

  1. 1

    Add the appropriate amount of weight to a trap bar and stand inside it with your feet hip-width apart.

  2. 2

    Grab the handles and stand tall with your arms straight.

  3. 3

    Engage your abs and take a breath.

  4. 4

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

  5. 5

    Slowly lower your shoulders back down 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