Description

The dumbbell incline shrug is a shoulder exercise that primarily targets the upper trapezius, helping to improve shoulder strength and stability.

Starting Position

Sit on an incline bench set at a 45-degree angle with a dumbbell in each hand, arms hanging down by your sides.

Technical Execution

Keeping your arms straight, shrug your shoulders up towards your ears, hold at the top for a second, then lower the dumbbells back down in a controlled manner.

Range of Motion

Focus on a full range of motion by lifting the shoulders as high as possible without shrugging them. Avoid rolling the shoulders or rounding the back.

Variations

Variations can include using a barbell instead of dumbbells, adjusting the incline angle of the bench, or performing the exercise standing with dumbbells.

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes include using momentum to lift the dumbbells, failing to retract the shoulder blades, and shrugging the shoulders instead of using the traps.

Practical Advice

Focus on keeping a controlled movement with proper form, engage the traps by squeezing them at the top of the movement, and avoid heavy weights that sacrifice proper execution.

Additional Notes

This exercise is great for developing upper traps and improving shoulder stability. It can be used as part of a shoulder or upper body workout.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate

Equipment Needed

Dumbbell

Primary Muscles

trapezius

Secondary Muscles