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Barbell Bent-Over Shrug

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Muscles worked

High load
Traps · Mid
Medium load
Lower back and Upper back · Rhomboids
Low load
Forearms · Flexors and Hamstrings · Hip extension

Secondary muscles

How to do it

Hold a barbell with a grip slightly wider than shoulder width and hinge until your torso is inclined forward. Let the arms hang, then draw the shoulder blades together to lift the bar a short distance. Pause briefly and release with control without turning the movement into a row.

Form cues

  • Keep your torso still.
  • Draw the shoulder blades together.
  • Keep the elbows nearly straight.

Safety

Talk to a professional before this exercise if you have any of the following:

NeckShoulderElbowWristUpper backLower backHip

This is general exercise reference, not medical advice. Stop and consult a qualified professional if an exercise causes pain, and never work through joint pain.