A new analysis of Google searches around exercise aspirations has revealed which muscle group people hope to improve the most with their workouts – and it turns out its abs.
The research, pulled together by fitness experts Lift Vault, collated Google search volume for over 300 keywords related to muscle group-specific workouts, routines and advice, spanning the past three years, to determine the body parts Brits were most interested in improving.
And it turns out six-packs aren’t going out of style anytime soon, as tips and advice around effective ab exercises is by far the most searched-for aspiration.
The average monthly search volume is over 97,000 (144 per 100k), meaning more than 1 in 10 Google searches on exercise suggestions (15%) are focusing on abs.
Some cities are chasing their six-pack dreams more than others, the data shows. Walsall is especially keen, with more searches than anywhere else at 386 per 100k – over three times (168%) the national average of 144.
In contrast, having washboard abs isn’t a priority in Wakefield, with only 43 searches per 100k.
Following abs as the second most-targeted muscle group is the chest, with the average monthly searches nearing 80,000 (118 per 100k).
Again, Walsall takes the lead as the state which expresses the most interest in improving their pecs, with 340 searches per 100k – almost quadruple (188%) the UK average.
Shoulders are the third biggest exercise aspiration, suggesting upper-body strength is a primary goal, with monthly searches surpassing 75,000 (111 per 100k).
On the other end of the spectrum, however, are quads and rhomboids, with only 3,830 and 3,270 average monthly searches – only making up 1% of the total searches between them.
The 10 biggest exercise aspirations in the UK
As well as revealing the most searched-for muscle groups, the study also analysed searches around weight loss, to reveal the areas Brits are most keen to slim down.
And – given the focus on achieving a six-pack – it’s no surprise that advice around reducing stomach fat accounted for two-thirds of searches related to fat loss (67%).
Following the stomach as the second area people most want to lose weight in is – surprisingly – the face, while Brits were also eager to learn how to lose back fat.
The 5 biggest weight loss aspirations in the UK
However, it seems that quite a few people are looking to lose weight in more than one area, with general searches around weight loss exceeding all of the specific areas with a huge 258, 291 average monthly searches – equivalent to 381 per 100k.
Commenting on the findings, a Lift Vault spokesperson said: “Having a clear goal in mind for what you hope to gain from your workouts can massively help with motivation – but, it’s important to make sure that your aspirations are realistic, otherwise you may get disheartened.
“Whether it’s a toned stomach or bigger glutes you want, once you commit to this being your end goal, it’s immediately easier to commit to and refine your training. Make sure to track your progress so that you can celebrate your wins and identify any areas that you can improve.
“And if you’re still struggling with motivation, searching up new workout inspo is a great way to cure the boredom that can come with sticking to the same routine day in day out. Sometimes all you need is a bit of variation and you’re ready to go again.”