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Best Trapezius Workouts With Weight Machines For Men

About

Weight machines are designed to provide stability and allow users to perform isolated movements effectively.

These machines are especially beneficial for beginners aiming to learn proper technique safely or individuals focusing on exertion without balance concerns.

The trapezius muscles, located at the upper back between the shoulders, are involved in many back exercises and can be specifically targeted through isolation movements such as shrugs.

In workouts tailored for the average man (5’10”, 180 lbs, 35 years old), reps and weight settings are adjusted based on generalized data, but individual capacity should guide adjustments.

Focusing on exercises targeting the traps can contribute significantly to upper back development and overall posture improvement.

The 4 Best Trapezius Exercises with Weight Machines for Men

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

  • 1. Machine Shoulder Shrug

    Machine Shoulder Shrug demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    94,471
    Trapezius Strength
    15 mScore
    Trapezius
    Photo of Shoulder Shrug Machine
    Shoulder Shrug Machine

    The Machine Shoulder Shrug is a simple exercise that strengthens the trapezius muscles, which are located in your upper back. This beginner-friendly exercise supports your body and minimizes stress on other muscles while you focus on the shrugging motion.

    How to do it

    1. Stand upright in the shrug machine with handles at knee height.
    2. Brace your core and grip the handles with palms facing in.
    3. Keep your chest out and shoulders back while lifting your shoulders towards your ears.
    4. Lower your shoulders back to the starting position.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    75lbs
    2
    8reps
    75lbs
    3
    8reps
    75lbs
  • 2. 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
    75lbs
    2
    8reps
    75lbs
    3
    8reps
    75lbs
  • 3. 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
    50lbs
    2
    8reps
    50lbs
    3
    8reps
    50lbs
  • 4. 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
    70lbs
    2
    8reps
    70lbs
    3
    8reps
    70lbs

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Alternative Trapezius Workouts with Weight Machines