Exercise library
Back
Cable Shrug
- Primary muscle
- Back
- Also works
- Shoulders, Forearms
- Equipment
- Cable
- Movement pattern
- Horizontal pull
- Role in a program
- Accessory
How to do it
Stand facing a low pulley and grip a bar attached to the cable with arms straight. Elevate your shoulders toward your ears against the resistance, pause, then lower under control.
Video demo coming soon.
Similar & swap-friendly exercises
Missing the equipment, or does this one aggravate something today? These also train the back — pick a substitute that feels strong and pain-free. For an actual injury, get it assessed by a professional.
- Cable Face PullCableHorizontal pull
- Cable Rear Delt RowCableHorizontal pull
- Seated Cable RowCableHorizontal pull
- Single-Arm Cable RowCableHorizontal pull
- Standing Cable RowCableHorizontal pull
- Wide-Grip Seated Cable RowCableHorizontal pull
No-equipment alternatives
Training at home or on the road — bodyweight options for the back: