05/04/2026
Your upper traps aren't the problem. They're just doing everyone else's job.
When your serratus anterior and lower traps stop firing the way they should, your upper traps take over. Every press. Every pull. Every overhead movement. And over time, that compensation shows up as neck tightness, shoulder pain, or a lift that just feels "off" no matter how much you train it.
This isn't a strength issue. It's a coordination issue — and stretching your traps won't fix it.
The real fix starts with getting your serratus and lower traps to actually activate and load properly so your shoulder moves the way it's supposed to.
If your shoulders feel stuck, your neck stays tight after lifting, or you keep hitting a wall with your pressing — this pattern is worth looking at.
DM me "TRAPS" and I'll point you in the right direction. 👇