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Single-Arm Dumbbell Shrug

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Muscles worked

High load
Traps · Upper
Medium load
Obliques
Low load
Forearms

Primary muscles

Secondary muscles

How to do it

Stand tall with one dumbbell at your side. Without leaning, raise the loaded shoulder straight toward your ear. Lower with control and complete the set before switching sides.

Form cues

  • Keep the torso upright.
  • Raise the loaded shoulder without rolling it.

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.