TETSUBarbell Shrug vs Machine Shrug
The Barbell Shrug and the Machine Shrug both train the traps as their primary muscle. The Barbell Shrug uses a barbell while the Machine Shrug uses a machine. Here is how they compare and when to pick each.
Side-by-side comparison
| Barbell Shrug | Machine Shrug | |
|---|---|---|
| Primary muscle | traps | traps |
| Body part | back | back |
| Supporting muscles | shoulders | shoulders |
| Equipment | barbell | machine |
| Steps in our guide | 5 | 5 |
How each one starts
Barbell Shrug — first steps
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold a barbell in front of you with an overhand grip.
- Keep your arms straight and your back straight throughout the exercise.
Machine Shrug — first steps
- Adjust the seat height and position yourself on the leverage machine with your back against the pad.
- Grasp the handles with an overhand grip and keep your arms straight.
Full step-by-step guides are linked below.
Which should you choose?
The Barbell Shrug lets you load the heaviest weights and progress in small, steady jumps. The Machine Shrug fixes the movement path so you can push close to failure with less skill demand. If your gym has both options, neither is a wrong choice: pick the one that feels strongest through a full range, and swap after 6 to 8 weeks to keep the traps adapting.
Full form guides
Common questions
Is the Barbell Shrug better than the Machine Shrug?
Neither is universally better — both train the traps as the primary mover. The Barbell Shrug lets you load the heaviest weights and progress in small, steady jumps, while the Machine Shrug fixes the movement path so you can push close to failure with less skill demand. Choose based on your equipment and which movement you can progress consistently.
Can I do both the Barbell Shrug and the Machine Shrug in the same program?
Yes, but usually not in the same session — they overlap heavily on the traps. A common setup is one as your main movement and the other on a second training day, or alternating them block by block.
Do the Barbell Shrug and the Machine Shrug work the same muscles?
Yes — the primary muscle is the same (traps) and both rely on the same supporting muscles: shoulders.
Track it in Tetsu
Tetsu tracks both movements separately, keeps your PRs per exercise, and tells you which one is actually progressing. Free to start.