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Cable Shrug guide
The Cable Shrug is a beginner-level isolation cable exercise that primarily targets the Trapezius (Upper). Set up with a braced, stable base, move through a full range of motion under control, and progressively add weight or reps over time to keep getting stronger.
What muscles does the cable shrug work?
The Cable Shrug primarily trains the Trapezius (Upper), with the traps as the target group. Train it as part of a balanced traps routine.
How do you do the cable shrug?
To do the Cable Shrug: set up at the cable with a stable, braced position — feet planted and core tight; take a grip or stance that lets your traps drive the movement through its full range of motion; lower under control, then drive back to the start, keeping tension on the trapezius (upper); avoid momentum, breathe through each rep, and stop 1–2 reps short of failure on most working sets.
- Set up at the cable with a stable, braced position — feet planted and core tight.
- Take a grip or stance that lets your traps drive the movement through its full range of motion.
- Lower under control, then drive back to the start, keeping tension on the trapezius (upper).
- Avoid momentum, breathe through each rep, and stop 1–2 reps short of failure on most working sets.
What are the most common cable shrug mistakes?
- Using momentum or bouncing instead of controlled tension.
- Cutting the range of motion short to move more weight.
- Adding load before the current weight is clean for every rep.
Cable Shrug alternatives
Cable Shrug FAQ.
What muscles does the Cable Shrug work?
The Cable Shrug primarily targets the Trapezius (Upper), training the Traps as the main muscle group.
Is the Cable Shrug a compound or isolation exercise?
The Cable Shrug is an isolation exercise — it focuses on one muscle, which is useful for targeting and bringing up weak points.
What equipment do I need for the Cable Shrug?
You need a cable. Difficulty is rated beginner.
What are good alternatives to the Cable Shrug?
Good traps alternatives include Barbell Shrug, Dumbbell Shrug, Smith Machine Shrug.
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