Barbell Shoulder and Upper Back Workout for Strength and Definition

Gym | Single Workout | Beginner: 4 exercises

This workout is specifically designed to target shoulder and upper back muscles, helping you build strength, definition, and improved posture. Using a barbell throughout, these exercises focus on your deltoids, traps, and supporting muscles, making it an efficient routine for anyone looking to enhance their upper body workout. Perform each exercise with the given reps and sets for optimal results. Remember to warm up adequately before starting and stretch afterward to aid recovery. Let’s break down the exercises: 

The "Barbell Front Raise" is a classic isolation move for your anterior deltoids. Focus on maintaining good form. Raise the barbell to shoulder height, keeping your core engaged and movement controlled. Perform 4 sets with rep ranges of 15, 12, 10, and 10 for progressive overload.

The "Barbell Seated Behind Head Military Press" targets your shoulders and triceps while also engaging your upper traps. Keep your back straight and stable as you press the barbell overhead and bring it back behind your head. This exercise is great for building both strength and stability in your shoulders. Complete 4 sets with rep ranges of 15, 12, 10, and 10.

Next, tackle the "Barbell Upright Row," an excellent move for your traps and lateral deltoids. Pull the barbell upwards towards your chin while keeping your elbows higher than your wrists. Keep the motion fluid and controlled to avoid strain. This movement is great for adding volume and definition to your upper back and shoulders. Perform another series of 4 sets with 15, 12, 10, and 10 reps. 

Finally, finish strong with the "Barbell Rear Delt Raise." This exercise directly targets the rear deltoids to ensure balanced shoulder development. Hinge at your hips, keep your chest forward, and raise the barbell with a controlled motion. Proper form is crucial to hit the rear delts effectively. Just like the previous exercises, aim for 4 sets with the same rep pattern: 15, 12, 10, and 10. 

This workout is all about symmetry and control, so be sure not to rush. Whether you’re looking to build strength or achieve aesthetic muscular balance, this routine will provide your shoulders and upper back the focused attention they need!

Preview Workout

Fitwill

Log Workouts, Track Progress & Build Strength.

Achieve more with Fitwill: explore over 5000 exercises with images and videos, access built-in and custom workouts, perfect for both gym and home sessions, and see real results.

Start your journey. Download today!

Fitwill: App Screenshot
1. Barbell Front Raise: 4 sets • 15, 12, 10 and 10 reps
Barbell Front Raise
2. Barbell Seated Behind Head Military Press: 4 sets • 15, 12, 10 and 10 reps
Barbell Seated Behind Head Military Press
3. Barbell Upright Row: 4 sets • 15, 12, 10 and 10 reps
Barbell Upright Row
4. Barbell Rear Delt Raise: 4 sets • 15, 12, 10 and 10 reps
Barbell Rear Delt Raise

Related Workouts

Blast your abs with this 4-exercise weighted and dumbbell core workout designed to build strength, tone, and definition in your midsection.
Gym | Single Workout | Beginner: 4 exercises
Sculpt your arms with this 4-exercise dumbbell workout targeting biceps and triceps with focused isolation movements and perfect control.
Gym | Single Workout | Beginner: 4 exercises
Build a sculpted chest with this intense all-cable chest workout that targets upper, mid, and lower pecs in just 4 movements.
Gym | Single Workout | Beginner: 4 exercises