Shrugs

[jakethasnake]

Yesterday at the gym I was doing barbell shrugs on the Smith Rack. I maxed out at 300 pounds, and did 4 reps. I could've done 1 rep of 315 if I wanted to. I started out at 185, and did a pyramid set.


12 reps @ 185
10 reps @ 205
8 Reps @ 225
6 reps at 275
4 reps @ 300

... then back down in the reverse order.




I made sure to keep my back straight and look straight ahead. I know this sounds like a silly newb question, but how's my poundage? I mean, am I putting up some solid numbers here? I am 5'9" and 165 pounds.

 

[LucidDreamer]

That's decent -- best way to gague your strength for this exercise is to use dumbells or do them in a power rack or squat rack -- without the restricted ROM you get with a smith machine.

 

[Hot Ice]

Those are kinda good I think.


Shrugs are kinda easy to do since your shoulders/neck are strong compared to many body parts.
The thing that makes sometimes shrugs hard is that you might lack strenght in forearms (your grip power).

I read somewhere that shrugs are one of the best exercises for your forearms..