Barbell Seated Shrug demonstration

Barbell Seated Shrug

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

This barbell movement primarily targets back, including upper back.

How to Perform Barbell Seated Shrug

  1. 1

    Add the appropriate amount of weight to the barbell and place it behind you.

  2. 2

    Sit on a bench directly in front of the bar and reach down to grab it with an overhand grip.

  3. 3

    Sit tall with your feet flat on the floor and your arms straight.

  4. 4

    Engage your abs and take a breath.

  5. 5

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

  6. 6

    Slowly lower your shoulders back down and breathe in.

  7. 7

    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