Major Muscles that Act on the Shoulder Girdle (Scapula)

Question 1

Muscle: Trapezius

Answer 1

Primary Function:

Upper: elevates scapula
Middle: retracts scapula
Lower: depresses and rotates scapula

Resistance Exercise(s):
Upper: shoulder shrugs
Middle: seated cable row
Lower: Y’s

Question 2

Muscle: Levator scapulae

Answer 2

Primary Function:
Elevates scapula

Resistance Exercise(s):
Shoulder shrugs

Question 3

Muscle: Rhomboid minor and major

Answer 3

Primary Function:
Retracts scapula

Resistance Exercise(s):
Seated cable row

Question 4

Muscle: Pectoralis minor

Answer 4

Primary Function:
Protracts scapula

Resistance Exercise(s):
Supine straight-arm punches

Question 5

Muscle: Serratus anterior

Answer 5

Primary Function:
Protracts scapula

Resistance Exercise(s):
Supine straight-arm punches