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Visual demonstration of the Barbell Back Wide Shrugs exercise

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Intermediate

Difficulty
Intermediate
Movement type
Strength
Primary muscles
Trapezius
Secondary muscles
Shoulders
Equipment
Barbell
Exercise guide

Barbell Back Wide Shrugs

4 steps Updated 29/08/2026

Barbell Back Wide Shrugs is a free weights exercise targeting Upper Back (Trapezius) using Barbell.

Step by step

How to perform it

  1. Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding a barbell with both hands behind your back. Your palms should face away from your body with a wide grip.
  2. Keep your shoulders back and chest up. Slowly lift your shoulders towards your ears in a shrugging motion.
  3. Squeeze your shoulder blades together at the top of the movement, holding the contraction for a moment.
  4. Slowly lower your shoulders back to the starting position with control. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
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Last updated: 29/08/2026

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Barbell Back Wide Shrugs

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