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Best Beginner Trapezius Workouts With Smith Machine

About

This workout is designed to target and effectively engage the trapezius muscles, located in the upper back region between the shoulders.

Utilizing the Smith Machine, which features a barbell fixed on guided tracks, provides added stability during exercises, allowing for focused muscle exertion while reducing injury risk.

Tailored for beginners with less than one year of experience, the exercises prioritize simplicity and safety, incorporating lower weights for learning proper execution while maintaining significant intensity.

With movements such as shrugs, which are effective for isolating the traps, participants can enjoy a balanced introduction to strength training.

This program is suitable for individuals of different heights, weights, and ages, acknowledging that individual capability may vary.

The 3 Best Beginner Trapezius Exercises with Smith Machine

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Ranked based on Fitbod's internal data set of the most effective exercises. Learn More

  • 1. Smith Machine Shrug

    Smith Machine Shrug demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    276,643
    Trapezius Strength
    96 mScore
    Trapezius
    Photo of Smith Machine
    Smith Machine

    The Smith Machine Shrug is a shoulder exercise that helps build strength in the trapezius muscles. Using a Smith machine provides stability, allowing you to focus on your form and effectively target the muscles.

    How to do it

    1. Stand tall with your feet shoulder-width apart and the Smith machine bar at mid-thigh height.
    2. Grip the bar with your hands shoulder-width apart and keep your arms extended. Bend your knees slightly.
    3. Unhook the bar and engage your core to keep a straight back.
    4. Lift your shoulders up towards your ears while keeping your chest out.
    5. Lower your shoulders back to the starting position.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    60lbs
    2
    8reps
    60lbs
    3
    8reps
    60lbs
  • 2. Smith Machine Upright Row

    Smith Machine Upright Row demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    196,556
    Trapezius Strength
    7 mScore
    Trapezius
    Photo of Smith Machine
    Smith Machine

    The Smith Machine Upright Row is an exercise that strengthens your shoulders and upper body. Using the Smith Machine helps you maintain good form and reduce the risk of injury.

    How to do it

    1. Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart.
    2. Grip the Smith Machine bar with extended arms, resting it on your thighs.
    3. Keep the bar close to your body and lift it by bending your elbows toward the ceiling.
    4. Maintain a neutral spine during the movement.
    5. Lift the bar to chest height, then lower it back to your thighs.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    40lbs
    2
    8reps
    40lbs
    3
    8reps
    40lbs
  • 3. Smith Machine Behind the Back Shrug

    Smith Machine Behind the Back Shrug demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    127,074
    Trapezius Strength
    94 mScore
    Trapezius
    Photo of Smith Machine
    Smith Machine

    The Smith Machine Behind the Back Shrug is an exercise that targets the upper traps and rear deltoids by using a barbell positioned behind your body. It helps improve shoulder strength while providing stability to lift heavier weights safely.

    How to do it

    1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and set the bar on the Smith machine at mid-thigh height.
    2. Reach behind you to grab the bar with both hands, keeping your arms straight and palms facing behind you.
    3. Unhook the bar and stand up straight while tightening your core to maintain good posture.
    4. Lift your shoulders towards your ears, keeping your chest up and shoulders back.
    5. Lower your shoulders back to the starting position.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    50lbs
    2
    8reps
    50lbs
    3
    8reps
    50lbs