Barbell Decline Shrug
Strengthen traps with Barbell Decline Shrugs! This exercise isolates upper back muscles for better posture & strength. Do it right!
The Barbell Decline Shrug mainly works the traps and neck, with help from the forearms. You'll need: barbell or decline bench or weight plates.
Required Equipment



Barbell Decline Shrug Muscles Worked
Primary
Upper Traps (trapezius, upper fibers); Neck (back) (levator scapulae)
Secondary
Top Forearm (wrist extensors); Inner Forearm (wrist flexors)
Barbell Decline Shrug Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Barbell Decline Shrug
Start: Position a decline bench at a moderate angle and place a loaded barbell at the end of the bench.
Lie face down on the bench with your feet secured under the footpads.
Grasp the barbell with both hands using a grip that's comfortable for you, usually a little wider than shoulder-width apart.
Your arms should be fully extended towards the floor, with palms facing in towards each other, and the barbell should be positioned directly under your shoulders.
Keep your arms straight with a slight bend in the elbows to avoid locking them.
Exhale and elevate your shoulders towards your ears, performing a shrug.
Squeeze your shoulder muscles at the top of the movement for a second.
Inhale as you slowly lower the shoulders back to the starting position.
Repeat the movement for the desired number of repetitions and sets, maintaining proper form throughout the exercise.
Ensure that only your shoulders are moving throughout this exercise and that the rest of your body stays stable on the bench. The focus should be on isolating the trapezius muscles through the shrugging motion. Make sure to use a weight that allows you to perform the movement with control and proper form.
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Barbell Decline Shrug FAQs
What muscles does the Barbell Decline Shrug work?
The Barbell Decline Shrug mainly works the traps and neck, with help from the forearms. The main muscles are the trapezius and levator scapulae.
What equipment do you need for the Barbell Decline Shrug?
Barbell or decline bench or weight plates.
What workout day should the Barbell Decline Shrug go on?
It belongs on pull day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Barbell Decline Shrug variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Barbell Behind-Back Shrug, Barbell Overhead Shrug, Barbell Seated Shrug and Barbell Shrug.
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