Agreed on upright rows, for a better move that involves similar external rotation without the possible harm to your shoulder try face pulls.

Thank you all for checking out the article/workout and providing feedback. In terms of any debate concerning upright rows, I can see why some would say the exercise has become frowned upon by some. However, this has a lot to do with how the exercise is performed. If an upright row is performed in the traditional 'bodybuilder' sense, using a barbell and pulling the elbows up very high (above shoulder level) you can be at greater risk of injury and it can be uncomfortable and awkward for your wrists as well. However, when using dumbbells- as my workout instructs, you have greater control and your elbows should only lift to shoulder level, not above, allowing you to focus more on form and limiting a risk for injury. Of course, if you have suffered from any previous shoulder injuries, always be mindful of that and cautious whenever training shoulders. :) As for the addition of the abs movements, such as the Russian Twist, yes, Sparko89 is correct- I have included them as an added bonus and effective ab workout to add into this shoulder shred circuit. Hope that helps! Enjoy! :)

Been doing upright rows for years, never had a shoulder injury. If you're using good form, proper preload, and controlled motions, you should be fine.

Been doing upright rows on the cable machine with the ropes as an alternate to bar/dumbells. It works very well, and allows a better range of movement for your wrists and shoulders. I have intermittent shoulder issues and I can still throw these in without aggravating my shoulders.