Exercise The Right Way - Barbell Shrugs
Other articles in this series looked at a number of exercises, mainly
from the perspective of developing a comprehensive muscle building
program. Sometimes we take things for granted, especially when it
comes to performing the basic exercises that constitute the core of
most bodybuilders' training regimes.
It is useful, therefore, to describe in detail the processes involved
in actually doing these exercises. This will help beginners to start
out using the correct techniques before moving on to potentially more
dangerous heavy weights. If it also helps more experienced lifters
to redress some of the little faults that have almost imperceptibly
crept in over the years, all the better.
In this article we'll take a close look at Barbell Shrugs.
MUSCLES TARGETED: trapezius (upper), rhomboids
STARTING POSITION
Adopt a shoulder width stance with the back erect and knees slightly
bent throughout.
Grasp the bar with an overhand grip and hands slightly wider than
shoulder width.
Hold the bar at arm's length with a slight bend at the elbows.
The bar should now be resting across the upper thighs.
EXERCISE TECHNIQUE
Lift your shoulders towards your ears and briefly hold the contraction.
Slowly lower the bar towards the starting position ensuring a comfortable
stretch is achieved.
Repeat this movement until the intended number of repetitions are
completed.
Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website
that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of
bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding
Exercises to learn more about the issues covered in this article.
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