How can I effectively perform bent over shrugs to target my upper back muscles?

To effectively perform bent over shrugs to target your upper back muscles, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, bend at the waist, and hold a dumbbell in each hand with your palms facing your body. Keeping your back straight, shrug your shoulders up towards your ears, hold for a moment, then lower them back down. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions, focusing on squeezing your upper back muscles at the top of the movement.