Upper back exercise
Dumbbell Shrug
Shoulder raise with dumbbells for the upper traps.
- Primary muscleUpper back
- Also worksForearms
- EquipmentDumbbells
- TypeIsolation
- LevelBeginner
- Upper back
- Forearms
- Dumbbells
How to do the Dumbbell Shrug
4 steps, in the order you do them.
- Stand tall with a dumbbell in each hand at your sides, palms facing your body.
- Raise your shoulders toward your ears as high as you can, without bending your elbows.
- Hold for a second at the top.
- Lower in a controlled way without rolling your shoulders.
Muscles worked
Alternatives to the Dumbbell Shrug
They work the upper back with other equipment, including options for training at home.
Guides to get more out of it
Mobbe
Log every set and watch your numbers climb.
Mobbe saves every set, shows you your record and builds your full routine.
More upper back exercises
Incline Dumbbell ShrugUpper back · Dumbbells and bench
Cable Y RaiseUpper back · Cable machine
Incline Dumbbell Y RaiseUpper back · Dumbbells and bench
Cable ShrugUpper back · Cable machine
Frequently asked questions
What muscles does the Dumbbell Shrug work?
The Dumbbell Shrug works mainly the upper back. It also works the forearms.