Shrugs

[tryingtobb]

I do side shrugs on machines. Are those just as good as front shrugs with a bar? I don't do shrugs with a barbell because I always hit my nuts when I pull lol... and it looks weird.

[shaiekh]

I do side shrugs on machines. Are those just as good as front shrugs with a bar? I don't do shrugs with a barbell because I always hit my nuts when I pull lol... and it looks weird.

try upright row

[platypusman]

You should try rear barbell shrugs too. The only thing they hit is your ass. haha
You could try side shrugs with dumbbells. They won't hit anything. I know what you mean by "rubbing" when doing front barbell shrugs. I usually wear tight boxer briefs along with maybe 2 pairs of shorts. That keeps everything in place and limits the irritation.

[kanis999]

I'm also curious about machine shrugs vs barbell. Any opinions on which is better? I tend to op for barbell exercises, but this one I'm not sure of.

[platypusman]

I know machines can aid in isolation, but is a machine shrug causing you to build the muscle improperly? Good thought. I find that the machine at my gym doesn't hit the right spot...based on feel. I have tried it out of curiosity but didn't like it. The grips are at strange angles too and too wide for me.

[terman1]

I do side shrugs on machines. Are those just as good as front shrugs with a bar? I don't do shrugs with a barbell because I always hit my nuts when I pull lol... and it looks weird.

Try the front shrugs a smith machine if you have one available. I find it allows me to keep the bar stabilized so that I can step back just a hair more which allows the path of the bar slightly more room to "clear things". Also, db's are a good bet if your gym has ones heavy enough to challenge you.

[terman1]

I'm also curious about machine shrugs vs barbell. Any opinions on which is better? I tend to op for barbell exercises, but this one I'm not sure of.

Your muscles don’t know the difference. Either one can be a viable option as long as you are making progress by either adding weight and/or reps lifted consistently. Try both and see if you have a preference either way.

[platypusman]

Wow I can't believe I didn't mention that....yes smith machine shrugs make it possible to move serious amounts of weight without damaging your jewels. Thanks Terman1 for pointing out another option. I never do them on a smith so I completely forgot that was an option.

[terman1]

Wow I can't believe I didn't mention that....yes smith machine shrugs make it possible to move serious amounts of weight without damaging your jewels. Thanks Terman1 for pointing out another option. I never do them on a smith so I completely forgot that was an option.

You're welcome. Good luck!!!