Beginner Trap Strength

Heavy Shrugs

Barbell or Heavy Dumbbells
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Why This Matters for Boxing

Builds the traps that protect your neck and shoulders. In boxing, shrugging your shoulders up protects your chin — the Philly Shell literally uses a shrug as defense. Strong traps = better chin protection.

How To Do It

  1. 1Hold a heavy barbell or dumbbells at your sides.
  2. 2Shrug your shoulders straight up toward your ears.
  3. 3Squeeze at the top for 1 second.
  4. 4Lower slowly and repeat.
  5. 5Keep your arms straight throughout.
Sets
3
Reps
15
Rest
30s

Pro Tips

  • Go heavy — traps respond to heavy loads.
  • Don't roll your shoulders — straight up and down only.
  • Think about tucking your chin behind your shoulder on each shrug.

Used In These Techniques