Exercise 1018 · REF trmte8s

Band Shrug exercise animation

Band Shrug

Category
Back
Equipment
Band
Target
Traps

The band shrug isolates the traps through scapular elevation, with band resistance ramping up through the top of the movement rather than staying constant like a dumbbell shrug. Keep the shoulders moving straight up rather than rolling them, since rolling doesn't add benefit and just adds unnecessary shoulder joint stress. It's a simple, low-equipment way to hit traps directly.

How to Do the Band Shrug

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and place the band under your feet, holding the ends with your hands.
  2. Keep your arms straight and relaxed, and let the band hang in front of your thighs.
  3. Engage your traps by shrugging your shoulders upward, lifting the band as high as possible.
  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.

Muscles Worked

The Band Shrug primarily targets the Traps, with Shoulders as the primary synergist muscle group.

More Back Exercises

More Traps Exercises

Equipment Alternatives

Don't have band? These target the same traps with different equipment.

FAQ

What muscles does the Band Shrug work?
The Band Shrug primarily targets the traps, with the shoulders as the main supporting muscle group.
What equipment do I need for the Band Shrug?
The Band Shrug is done with a band.
What's a good alternative to the Band Shrug?
If you don't have access to a band, the Scapula Dips targets the same traps using body weight instead.