The upper traps have gotten a bad rap in recent years and training them directly has become somewhat of a fitness no-no.
But for athletes and lifters who are stuck in spine-extension based postures and can’t raise their arms overhead, training the upper traps can be a game changer for overall shoulder health and performance. The key? Ensure they’re trained with upward rotations.
1) Y’s with Shrug
2) Barbell Overhead Shrug
3) 1 Arm Landmine Press