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Exercise guide
Kettlebell Shrug
This isolation exercise targets the upper trapezius muscles by elevating the shoulders, enhancing shoulder stability and neck strength.
What this exercise works
- Muscles
- trapezius · forearm flexors
- Goals
- hypertrophy
- Equipment
- Kettlebell
- Category
- Strength
- Difficulty
- beginner
Demonstration
Step 1
Step 2
How to perform the movement
- Stand tall with feet hip-width apart, holding a kettlebell in each hand with palms facing your body.
- Keep your arms straight and shoulders relaxed.
- Elevate your shoulders straight up towards your ears, squeezing your traps at the top.
- Hold the contraction briefly.
- Slowly lower your shoulders back to the starting position with control.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Technique cues and common mistakes
- Focus on moving only your shoulders, keeping your arms straight throughout the movement.
- Avoid rolling your shoulders; move them straight up and down.
- Maintain a neutral spine and engaged core to prevent lower back strain.
- Use a weight that allows for full range of motion and controlled execution.