Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Smith Machine Behind-Back Wide Shrug.
The Smith machine behind-back wide shrug places the bar behind the body with a wide overhand grip, targeting the upper trapezius from a slightly different angle than a front shrug. The Smith machine provides a stable guided path for this more unusual grip position.
The Smith Machine Behind-Back Wide Shrug is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.
