SHRUG & SQUAT HANDLES

Free Weight style Shrug and Squat Handles come in multiple forms. From simple yet effective Dumbbells and Barbells, To Dumbbell and Barbell Shrug Alternatives like Trap Bars, Hex Bars, Ez Squat, Shrug Pro handles etc. With regards to EZ Squat Handles, the primary advantage is the fact that the exercise loading weight is tucked safely close to body center. Thereby minimizing adverse spinal loading as is common to Dumbbell and Barbell Squats. Whereby heavy dumbbells are held in hands outside of legs and away from body center for Close Stance Squats. Or inside of legs for Wide Stance Dumbbell Squats. Which for both Squat Exercises can create a spine threatening forward torso tilt. Plus rounding of lumbar under load. If not performed with flawless Squat Exercise form. Barbell Squats on the other hand place a heavily loaded Barbell directly on the spine at shoulder level. Which seriously amplifies the threat of forward tilt and lumbar spine risks. Due to a leverage disadvantage caused by situating the weight so far above waist level.

Trap Training options to consider with regards to Shrug Handles for applying copious amounts of weight to Trapezius muscles. Of which the most prevalent are Dumbbells, Barbells, the Hex Trap Bar and related versions. With few exceptions such as Shrug Pro Stands and Trap Bars with support legs. The primary usage issue with the Shrugs Workout is the positioning of and safe landing of super heavy weights. With dumbbells one must pull two from the rack and assume exercise position. Dumbbell Shrug 15-20 reps to total failure. Then wrestle the 120's back onto the Dumbbell Rack. All to be repeated for 3-4 sets. As for Hex Trap Bar Shrugs, well at least there's no need to relocate and rerack the unit loaded with Olympic Plates. But the Lifter must still Squat to clear the Shrug Bar from floor to begin. Then safely lower upon set completion. On the other hand, Barbells are fine when used in concert with a Power Cage. As bar can be placed as needed vertically. As well weight can be easily loaded and removed. Best of all when grip is gone it's easy to safely land the barbell. The only issue (as is applicable to Hex Bars too) is one cannot reap the benefits of a Unilateral Dumbbell Shrug exercise. Which is to single out left and right sides for individual attention and a much deeper massage. As is possible with both *Dumbbells (*which due to bulk are not as exercise efficient) and self-supporting Shrug Pro Stands. Of which the Shrug Pro is definitely easier to clear from floor for exercise with a slight straightening of legs. Then a slight bend of knees to land the Shrug Handles upon set completion.