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Exercises
Exercises
Shoulder Shrugs
Evidence-grounded — sourced from Fysiqal's fitness knowledge graph· 1 min read
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In one line
Scapular-elevation shrug isolating the upper trapezius, with rhomboid assistance.
Detail
Shoulder shrugs train the upper trapezius (which elevates and adducts/retracts the scapula). Primary Muscles: Upper Trapezius; Secondary Muscles: Rhomboid. Performed with barbells or dumbbells (also Hammer). Shrugs occupy the "stretch" and "contracted" positions of the trapezius Positions-of-Flexion chart.
Key facts
- Primary Muscle: Upper Trapezius.
- Secondary Muscle: Rhomboid.
- Movement: scapular elevation.
Connections
- trapezius — upper traps primary.
- rhomboids — secondary.
- elevation — the scapular movement.
- upright-row — the other trapezius exercise.
SourceReference manual
p.320p.428p.596p.672
Cited authorities in source: Ellison (1991).
Educational content only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional for individualized guidance, especially around injury, pregnancy, or medical conditions.
Explore related topics
Atlas Connections
Elevation
Upward movement, as in shrugging the shoulder girdles.Rhomboids (Major and Minor)Closely related
Two muscles between the spine and the inner edge of the scapula that retract (draw together) and downwardly rotate the shoulder blades — key to upright posture and rowing movements.Trapezius
A muscle that functions as three different muscles — upper, middle, and lower traps — moving the scapula.Upright RowsClosely related
Upright row training all three parts of the trapezius (and used for medial-deltoid work via upright rowing), with deltoid and arm-flexor assistance.Intensity
The amount of weight (resistance) lifted — also shaped by speed, reps, sets, rest interval, and workout duration.