Exercise technique

smith shrug

The smith shrug is an exercise performed on a Smith machine to target the trapezius muscles. It involves lifting the shoulders towards the ears while holding a barbell, focusing on squeezing the traps at the top of the movement.

How do you perform this exercise?

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent.
  2. Grasp the barbell with an overhand grip, hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
  3. Keep your arms straight and your shoulders relaxed.
  4. Lift your shoulders up towards your ears, squeezing your traps at the top.
  5. Hold for a moment, then slowly lower your shoulders back down to the starting position.
  6. 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