Barbell Shrugs

[DarkLord]

Has anyone done the shrugs behind the back ? I heard someone down my gym once, saying it's very effective but you need to start with less weight. I like barbell shrugs but is it pointless on the day of training traps to do two different types of trap exercises? I have no idea myself.

[.V.]

I do them in the front first then behind the back. There is really no reason to only 1/2 way build your traps - work them from both sides. Do a search for Jaster Shrugs if you want to find out all about behind the back BB shrugs.

I've noticed in many pics that so many of the really huge body builders have one thing missing - no traps. I think it is because they don't shrug or upright row enough, or heavy enough, whichever it is.

[Klinger]

Try them. I prefer DB shrugs, though. The movement seems much more natural.

[DarkLord]

That's very freaky that you should mention that Welch because in the October addition of Body Fitness they have an article exactly about that. I'm sure none of you will disagree that awesome traps will make you look massive like a bull. That's why big lou was great for the Incredible Hulk doing his most muscular pose.

[.V.]

Originally Posted by DarkLord

That's very freaky that you should mention that Welch because in the October addition of Body Fitness they have an article exactly about that.

So I'm not the only one to notice that? Darn it, I thought I had an original observation.

[threenorns]

personally, i'm not fond of huge, overdeveloped traps. it seems to be one or the other: too underdeveloped or way too big for the shoulders. it's a hard bodypart to balance, it seems.

[rbuchman]

I have a hard time b/c my butt gets in the way. But they work great I do both.

Another idea, not solely for the traps is incline dumbel shrugs, lie face down on an incline bench and shrug up two dumbells. A different angle and hits your upper back too (which you're probably working on the same day anyways)

[.V.]

Originally Posted by threenorns

personally, i'm not fond of huge, overdeveloped traps. it seems to be one or the other: too underdeveloped or way too big for the shoulders. it's a hard bodypart to balance, it seems.

Very true - traps should NEVER go higher than the bottom of the ear.

I don't think I will have to worry about overdeveloping any body part myself though.

[DarkLord]

I don't think you need worry about traps going higher or even as high as your ear as it would be literally impossible.