Last Updated on July 24, 2023 by Patrick
Great job on completing Week 2 of the 4-Week Trap Transformation Plan! You’re making remarkable progress, and now it’s time to introduce the power of compound movements to supercharge your trap development. Compound exercises engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously, providing a more comprehensive and effective workout.
Table of Contents
1. Understanding Compound Movements
Compound movements involve movements at multiple joints, recruiting several muscles at once. By incorporating these exercises into your trap transformation plan, you’ll not only target your traps but also stimulate overall upper body development.
2. Exercise 1: Deadlifts
Deadlifts are a fantastic compound exercise that targets the entire posterior chain, including your traps.
Frequency: Perform deadlifts once a week.
Sets and Reps: Do 3 sets of 6-8 repetitions per session.
How to Perform:
Step 1: Stand with your feet hip-width apart, with the barbell over your midfoot.
Step 2: Bend at your hips and knees, grasping the barbell with an overhand or mixed grip.
Step 3: Keep your chest up and back straight as you lift the bar by extending your hips and knees.
Step 4: Stand tall, engaging your traps at the top of the movement.
Step 5: Lower the barbell back down in a controlled manner.
Step 6: Repeat for the recommended number of repetitions.
3. Exercise 2: Bent-Over Rows
Bent-over rows are an effective compound movement that targets your traps and lats.
Frequency: Perform bent-over rows two times a week, with at least one day of rest between sessions.
Sets and Reps: Do 4 sets of 8-10 repetitions per session.
How to Perform:
Step 1: Hold a barbell or a pair of dumbbells with an overhand grip, standing with your feet shoulder-width apart.
Step 2: Hinge at your hips, leaning forward while maintaining a straight back.
Step 3: Pull the barbell or dumbbells up towards your chest, leading with your elbows.
Step 4: Squeeze your shoulder blades together at the top of the movement.
Step 5: Lower the weight back down in a controlled manner.
Step 6: Repeat for the recommended number of repetitions.
4. Exercise 3: Pull-Ups
Pull-ups are a bodyweight compound exercise that engages your traps, lats, and biceps.
Frequency: Perform pull-ups once a week.
Sets and Reps: Aim for 3 sets of as many repetitions as you can comfortably perform.
How to Perform:
Step 1: Grip an overhead bar with your palms facing away from you, hands shoulder-width apart.
Step 2: Hang from the bar with your arms fully extended.
Step 3: Pull yourself up by engaging your traps and back muscles.
Step 4: Continue pulling until your chin is above the bar.
Step 5: Lower yourself back down in a controlled manner.
Step 6: Repeat for the recommended number of repetitions.
5. Focus on Recovery and Nutrition
As you challenge your body with compound movements, prioritize recovery and nutrition. Get enough rest and sleep to support muscle repair. Continue consuming a well-balanced diet to fuel your progress.
6. Stay Consistent and Committed
Consistency is the key to success in your trap transformation journey. Stay committed to your workouts and remain patient. Results will come with dedication and perseverance.
Conclusion for Week 3
You’ve completed Week 3 of the 4-Week Trap Transformation Plan, incorporating compound movements to target your traps and other major muscle groups. By engaging in these powerful exercises, you’re well on your way to achieving impressive upper body strength and aesthetics. Stay focused, and get ready to fine-tune and sculpt your traps in Week 4. You’re closer than ever to bolder, stronger traps!

Hey I’m Patrick!
I built my first home gym in 2012, when I decided I was tired of waiting in line for the squat rack and I started GGC in 2020 to help people find the info they need to improve their fitness and their lives.
I’m passionate about fitness, especially when it comes to working out at home. I’ve learned a lot over the years about what to do and what not to do, and my mission is to share that knowledge with the world!