Appears in642 Workouts*

Kelso Shrug

Master the Kelso Shrug to build a thick upper back and powerful traps. This chest-supported movement isolates the mid-to-high traps with precision, ensuring better posture and shoulder stability.

Jeff Nippard
jeffnippard

Required Equipment

Plate Loaded T-Bar Row Machine thumbnail
Plate Loaded T-Bar Row Machine

Muscle Groups

Primary

Secondary

Instructions

Setup

Place your chest against the support pad of a T-Bar row machine. Ensure your feet are firmly planted on the platform and your core is engaged to stabilize your torso.

Grip

Grab the handles with a neutral or overhand grip, depending on what the machine offers, allowing your arms to hang straight down toward the floor while maintaining a slight bend in your elbows.

Movement

  • Start with your shoulders in a fully depressed position.

  • Initiate the movement by driving your shoulders upward toward your ears as far as possible.

  • Focus on using your traps and engaging your upper back muscles, minimizing arm involvement.

  • Squeeze at the top of the movement for a brief second.

  • Lower the weight back down slowly to the starting position under control.