Shrugging at the top
Upper traps elevate the shoulder girdle instead of the deltoid abducting the humerus.
Overactive muscles
Upper trapeziusLevator scapulae
Corrective work
Foam RollUpper traps↗StretchUpper trap doorframe stretch↗Push · Upper Body
Machine Lateral Raise
Coaching cues
- Adjust seat so pivot point aligns with the shoulder joint
- Lead with the elbows — arms should be slightly below horizontal at top
- Keep thumb slightly down (internal rotation) for better deltoid activation
- Pause at top; lower slowly — the eccentric is underrated on this machine
Common faults 3
Elbows bent too much
Significant elbow flexion shortens the lever and reduces deltoid demand.
Overactive muscles
Biceps brachii
Corrective work
StretchOverhead biceps stretch↗Pivot not aligned with shoulder
Misaligned seat puts shear stress on the shoulder joint rather than pure abduction torque.
Overactive muscles
Upper trapeziusPec minor
Corrective work
Foam RollUpper traps↗StretchUpper trap neck stretch↗