Machine Shrug

The Machine Shrug is a variation of the dumbbell or barbell shrug & acts more directly on the trapezius as it keeps you on the one plane of motion which hits the traps really directly & effectively. This exercise, like other shrug exercises will target the upper traps. Make sure that you maintain good posture throughout the exercise & pull in your navel to activate the core for a really strong base. Go up smooth & down slowly. Don'ts: Don't place your head too far forward, or roll your shoulder girdle which places too much stress on the rotator cuff & on the joint itself. Also avoid rounding your back. Using good form, you'll not only be able to optimise the results, i.e. the development of the trapezius muscle; you'll also avoid injury. Nick Jones - World Bodybuilding Champion & Joe Grima - IFBB Bodybuilding Champion