Trap Muscles

Yeah I try not to depend on straps and only use them when I can no longer grip the bar, but IMO they're invaluable for pushing the traps a little more.

True that. No way can I properly work my traps without hooks. My grip will give out before they're even close to done.
 
True that. No way can I properly work my traps without hooks. My grip will give out before they're even close to done.

Yeah hooks are awesome for shrugs. I like to use hooks on lat pulldowns too - I can get a way better squeeze for some reason...it's like I'm just attached to the weight so then all I have to worry about is contracting the muscle of interest.
 
Yeah hooks are awesome for shrugs. I like to use hooks on lat pulldowns too - I can get a way better squeeze for some reason...it's like I'm just attached to the weight so then all I have to worry about is contracting the muscle of interest.

Straps and/or hooks, good for the heavier sets...but don't neglect your grip! This is where you put size on your forearms. 90% of my forearm size is due to gripping the bar and dumbells during training.
 
My traps were the first thing to show up when I started cycling. My mom was the first to say something. There is definitely a genetic component to traps but I mean isn't that why we are on juice... to push past the genetic barriers?
I absolutely love working traps with my shoulders. I do all of my heavy compound shoulder exercises (arnold presses, regular dumbell presses,or barbell presses) first then I do high pulls usually 4 sets with a drop set on the first set. I really take my time on this first set of 8-10 (then failure on each drop while keeping form in check) 2 count on the way up squeeze 2 count down. Control the weight picture the blood being pushed into them when you squeeze. You will feel the fire. The last 3 sets will be straight hell to keep good form but when you can't do a full rep without cheating (this should be on the 5th or 6th rep) do 3-4 more cheat reps with a squeeze and fight the weight down on the negative. Then I finish my shoulders with 3 delt raise exercises.
Experiment with your back position (how much you lean over) on high pulls and position of your hands at finish (width and/or distance away from your body) let your body tell you what works best. Then switch it up.

Deads and cleans also work these but I don't focus on this area on those days ...just a bonus!!
 
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