Leverage Shrug
Leverage Shrug is a strength - lever scapular elevation exercise involving Trapezius. Use these steps to learn the movement and work with your coach to choose a suitable level.
Last updated: · DynPerformance
- Primary muscles
- Trapezius
- Secondary muscles
- Forearm gripping muscles
- Exercise type
- Strength - lever scapular elevation
Exercise technique
- Load
Load the plate pegs evenly.
- Position
Stand between the two handles.
- Take the load
Bend knees and hips to grip the upper handles.
- Stand
Push into the floor to stand with long arms.
- Shrug
Raise shoulders directly toward your ears.
- Pause
Pause briefly at the top with the legs still.
- Return
Lower the shoulders; after the set, hinge at the hips to replace the load.
Key technique points
- Use the legs safely for the initial lift.
- Keep knees still during shrugs.
- Balance in the machine center.
- Keep your neck upright.
- Do not bend the elbows.
- Set the load down under control.
Common mistakes
Using legs every repetition
Do not add the initial pickup movement to each shrug.
Leaning backward
Do not arch the lower back at the top.
Rolling the shoulders
Do not turn vertical elevation into a circle.
Favoring one handle
Do not move sideways from the machine center.
Curling the arms
Do not raise handles through elbow flexion.
Dropping the load
Do not release it without a controlled hip hinge after the set.
Frequently asked questions
Leverage Shrug: why is “Using legs every repetition” a mistake?
Do not add the initial pickup movement to each shrug.
Leverage Shrug: why is “Leaning backward” a mistake?
Do not arch the lower back at the top.
Leverage Shrug: why is “Rolling the shoulders” a mistake?
Do not turn vertical elevation into a circle.
Leverage Shrug: why is “Favoring one handle” a mistake?
Do not move sideways from the machine center.
Leverage Shrug: why is “Curling the arms” a mistake?
Do not raise handles through elbow flexion.
Leverage Shrug: why is “Dropping the load” a mistake?
Do not release it without a controlled hip hinge after the set.
What should I focus on when doing Leverage Shrug?
Use the legs safely for the initial lift. Keep knees still during shrugs. Balance in the machine center. Keep your neck upright. Do not bend the elbows. Set the load down under control.
Related exercises
- Barbell Shrug
- Dumbbell Shrug
- Dumbbell Farmer's Carry
- Barbell Shrug Behind The Back
- Cable Shrugs
- Exercise Guide
Add this exercise to your program with your coach
If you have a health condition, consult a qualified professional.