Eccentryx / Exercise Atlas / pull

Barbell shrug

Bar at hip crease, straight arms, shrug straight up — no rolling.

Muscles

Primary
traps
Supporting
None listed

Mechanics

Pattern
scapular control
Equipment
barbell
Geometry
150° Pull Pivot
Energy model
Glycolytic Pathway (10-90s)
Target feel
Upper traps lift the bar while arms stay passive throughout.
Progression
Hold 2 s at the top; add load only when hold is controlled.
Regression
DB shrug if bar path or grip limits the movement.

Watch for

  • Rolling the shoulders forward — adds no trap recruitment, stresses AC joint
  • Using straps before grip is tested
  • Partial reps at too heavy a load

Substitutions

  • DB shrug
  • Cable shrug
  • Hammer Strength shrug
Open Barbell shrug in the app →