If your resolution for the New Year is to get fit, then keep reading. Here's a list of the most popular workout searches for the year 2013 based on the results of
Google's 13th annual Zeitgeist.
TRX Workout
The portable straps allow you to use gravity to your advantage and provide resistance. You can also hire trainers to help create customized workouts to your individual needs. Benefits include more strength, balance and flexibility.
Plank Exercises
The reason why planks are more efficient than crunches is that it incorporates ab-supporting back muscles and helps you drive more power from your hips. And it's not just about how long you can hold it, but also adding variations to challenge your abs.
Back Workouts
Just a few simple moves a day can really help stave off all those aches you get from sitting in a cubicle all day.
Shoulder Workouts
Neglecting those rear deltoids can lead to injuries and poor posture. You can fix this by doing more pull-ups and rows (both on a machine and off). Another good alternative are
lateral raises, which can be performed in a number of variations.
CrossFit Workouts
Everyone has heard of CrossFit by now. A recent
study from the ACE deemed CrossFit an efficient and powerful workout, provided
you follow some basic safety guidelines.
Kettlebell Workouts
Thanks to CrossFit's rise in popularity, kettlebells are now essentially mainstream. This powerhouse move is great for stronger legs, back and core. One study even claims that a complete kettlebell workout can improve aerobic capacity! It's important to master form at a low weight before advancing to avoid hurting yourself.
7-Minute Workout
This high-intensity, high-efficiency circuit workout claims you can reap all sorts of benefits in just seven minutes.
The catch is that you'll probably need to repeat the whole thing at least two or three times to get results (plus, the 21-minute workout just doesn't have the same ring to it).
Bicep Workouts
The simple bicep curl can also benefit your abs, glutes, triceps, shoulders and other muscles. The important thing to remember is to
focus on your form as they will keep you balanced while holding the weight.
Ab Workouts
A strong core is essential for good posture and eliminating back pain. If your goal is just to get abs, then you also need to modify your diet to get rid of the flab that's covering up the muscle beneath.
Insanity Workout
It's been marketed as "The Hardest Workout Ever Put on DVD", and for good reason. This 60-day program really pushes interval training to the max.