re: Are Smith Machine shrugs a good alternative to standard barbell shrugs?

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sit on incline bench with chest and face on pad. Let dumbbells/arms hang naturally down towards floor. Start shrugs. Total different angle and burn.

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Actually, this is just the proper way shrugs should be done.
Shrugs shouldn't be just an up and down motion (if you are standing up straight). You should lean over a little if you want to work more of the trap. Or pull backwards a little, almost like you are trying to touch your traps behind your head.

Doing it on an incline bench just helps perfect your form.