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How to Do Dumbbell Shrug

Step-by-step instructions, muscles worked and workouts that use the dumbbell shrug.

How to do it

1. Stand erect with a dumbbell on each hand (palms facing your torso), arms extended on the sides.
2. Lift the dumbbells by elevating the shoulders as high as possible while you exhale. Hold the contraction at the top for a second. Tip: The arms should remain extended at all times. Refrain from using the biceps to help lift the dumbbells. Only the shoulders should be moving up and down.
3. Lower the dumbbells back to the original position.
4. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Form tips

• Start light and own the movement before adding weight.
• Control the lowering phase — don't drop into it.
• Keep breathing; exhale on the hardest part.
• Stop if you feel sharp pain (different from muscle burn).

Workouts with this exercise

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Gear for this exercise

Adjustable dumbbellsA full home gym in one small space.See it on Amazon →Adjustable workout benchUnlocks presses, rows and step-ups at home.See it on Amazon →

Exercise photos and instructions: free-exercise-db (public domain). Animation made from the real start and end photos.