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Competing changes things. Symmetry plays a much bigger role. I think that you are on the right track with the mind/muscle connection aspect.
My traps will literally start burning from doing a standing barbell curls if I try to do anything close to heavy. I rarely, if ever even work them because they grow so easily. It sounds like you may have the same issue.
I have the best results taking them out of back movements when using machines with lighter weights. I am sure that you have already tried this and can see the difference in something like a cable row vs dumbell rows in terms of being able to control you trap usage and concentrating on your back. If not give it a try.
My traps will literally start burning from doing a standing barbell curls if I try to do anything close to heavy. I rarely, if ever even work them because they grow so easily. It sounds like you may have the same issue.
I have the best results taking them out of back movements when using machines with lighter weights. I am sure that you have already tried this and can see the difference in something like a cable row vs dumbell rows in terms of being able to control you trap usage and concentrating on your back. If not give it a try.
likes her’s; anyone could make that mistake. 
- Feb 15, 2013
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- 680
BigSwole, yea me too! When i go heavy with standing barbell curls the traps kick in. I do not work them at all. Other then them kicking in when i don't need them LOL. My trainer is constantly correcting me. And i've since in the last cpl years have also started to recognize when they kick in so i can course correct and use the intended muscles i'm trying to work lol.
Yes! I have tried the backmovements with lighter weights from time to time. With me having a shoulder surgery 2 yrs ago, during rehap they really reinforced engaging the back muscles, this actually has helped the days i work back. I can really feel my mid back and lats now and am totally hyper aware of them now. Plus my new trainer has taught me how to do the lat pulldowns in short movements and really feeling the lats. I will dig up a pic i had of before my competition where you can really see traps were outta control lol.
Yes! I have tried the backmovements with lighter weights from time to time. With me having a shoulder surgery 2 yrs ago, during rehap they really reinforced engaging the back muscles, this actually has helped the days i work back. I can really feel my mid back and lats now and am totally hyper aware of them now. Plus my new trainer has taught me how to do the lat pulldowns in short movements and really feeling the lats. I will dig up a pic i had of before my competition where you can really see traps were outta control lol.