Back · Barbell

Kelso shrug — Barbell

Target musclesMid traps · Lower traps · Rhomboids

Kelso shrug — Barbell
Description

Controlled shoulder shrug to target the trapezius muscles.

01 · Setup

Set up the movement

  • Keep your spine neutral, trunk braced and arms straight.
  • Start with your shoulders down.
  • Use a firm grip with neutral wrists.
02 · Execution

Perform the rep

  1. Raise your shoulders vertically without rolling them forward.
  2. Hold the contraction at the top for a moment.
  3. Lower slowly into a controlled stretch.
Technique cue

Controlled vertical shrug without shoulder rotation.

Common mistakes
  • rolling the shoulders
  • moving too abruptly
  • letting the trunk swing
  • using an incomplete range
Safety notes

Risks of poor execution

  • Repeated abrupt movement can overload the neck region.

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