Exercise technique

cable shrug

The cable shrug is an isolation exercise targeting the trapezius muscles, performed using a cable machine. It involves shrugging the shoulders upward while keeping the arms straight, focusing on contracting the traps.

How do you perform this exercise?

  1. Stand facing the cable machine with your feet shoulder-width apart.
  2. Grasp the cable handles with an overhand grip and let your arms hang down in front of you.
  3. Keeping your arms straight, shrug your shoulders up towards your ears.
  4. Hold the contraction for a moment, then slowly lower your shoulders back down to the starting position.
  5. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Which other muscles are involved?

Shoulders.

How do you log your sets?

How do you track progressive overload?

Source: ExerciseDB catalogue and demonstration. Related movements are options to compare, not equivalent loads or a prescribed progression.

Alternatives to explore

STARK is a strength training tracker for iPhone and Apple Watch. Log sets, repetitions and weights, then follow your progress. Core features are free. Explore STARK’s features