Today’s exercise of the day is upright rows. Its a great exercise which focuses on the trapezius muscle. I like to do this instead of shrugs now and again. Watch the video below for a quick demonstration, and find more comprehensive instructions following.

Upright Rows Demonstrated by YOGYMBO.com from Nash on Vimeo.

Continue reading for detailed instructions.

1.) Find a barbell with pre-attached weights (such as in our video) or grab a bar, and throw on a weight you feel comfortable with. (I suggest increasing the weight on each side by 5lb’s).

Always remember to start slow and work your way up the first time you attempt an exercise. Its safe, and smart.

2.) Stand up straight.

3.) Hold the barbell with your arms shoulder width apart.

4.) Slowly, pull the bar up towards your chin.

5.) Focus on pulling with your traps, and keep the weight close to your body.

6.) Briefly pause at the top, and then lower the weight slowly.

Note: Try not to lean backward (at all), or too far forwards (a little lean is o.k.)