Shrugs (Dumbbell)
Performance Description
- Assume a position of balance (generally with legs shoulder with or less apart, but wider than feet together).
- If any substantial amount of weight is being used, it is recommended that there is a stand nearby to place the dumbbells on when finished.
- Grip the dumbbells (wrist straps may be needed if the weight cannot be held for complete sets), lift the weights off the stand, let the arms hang at the sides, and ensure that the core is kept tight throughout movement, which, in turn, maintains the back in a straight position. This is optimal.
- Inhale. Shrug the shoulders both up and back (keeping the arms relatively relaxed so as to keep focus on the trapezius), hold the squeeze briefly, and exhale throughout the movement.
- Lower the weight in a controlled manner, inhaling throughout the movement.
- Repeat steps 4-5 for as many repetitions as are desired.
Various Methods of Exercise: Barbell, Dumbbell, Machine
Primary Muscle(s)
Upper Back (Trapezius)
Secondary Muscle(s)
Upper Back (Levator Scapulae)
Upper Back (Rhomboid Major)
Tertiary Muscle(s)
Forearms (Flexor: Carpi Radialis)
Forearms (Flexor: Carpi Ulnaris)
Forearms (Flexor: Digitorum Profundus)
Forearms (Flexor: Digitorum Superficialis)
Forearms (Flexor: Pollicis Longus)
Forearms (Palmaris Longus)
Further Clarification
Dumbbell shrugs put primary focus on the upper (trapezius) and middle portions (rhomboids) of the upper back. The middle portions are worked when the shoulder blades are squeezed together and to the back.
It will eventually become impossible to rotate the shoulders. The threshold will be different from person to person, but when the weight becomes too heavy for the individual rotation will no longer be possible.
When done with heavy weights in particular, maintaining one's grip can become quite difficult. There are couple viable options that can be explored when faced with this problem.
- Wrist straps are a solution, but should generally only be considered a temporary one. This is because it is of course optimal to strengthen one's grip so that wrist straps are not needed. Forearm exercises are an excellent route.
- There are specially designed grip strengtheners that can work wonders, provided the necessary time and effort is put in. Captains of Crush grippers, made by a company called Iron Mind, make premium grippers which are specially crafted for people who are serious about strengthening their grip. There are several grippers available, each with different pound difficulties depending on one's goals and grip strength.
Level
Beginner
Exercise Position(s)
Standing
Exercise Variations
Considered An Exercise In The Following Categories