The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about daily activities and personal preferences. One common topic is describing places where you exercise or spend time outdoors. This article will guide you through answering questions related to “describing a place in your country where you go to exercise,” a theme that has appeared frequently in past IELTS exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you general questions about exercise and outdoor activities. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Q: Do you like to exercise?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do enjoy exercising. I try to work out at least three times a week to stay healthy and fit. It helps me feel energized and reduces stress.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I’m quite passionate about maintaining an active lifestyle. Not only does regular exercise keep me in good physical shape, but it also has a profound impact on my mental well-being. I find that a rigorous workout session can be incredibly invigorating and helps me tackle daily challenges with renewed vigor.
Q: Where do you usually go to exercise?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I usually go to a local park near my house. It has a nice jogging track and some outdoor fitness equipment that I like to use.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I’m fortunate to have access to a multifaceted recreational area in my neighborhood. It’s a sprawling park that offers a diverse range of facilities, including a well-maintained jogging trail, outdoor fitness stations, and even a small lake for water activities. The versatility of this space allows me to vary my workout routine, keeping my exercise regimen both engaging and effective.
Part 2: Long Turn
Now, let’s look at a possible cue card for this topic:
Describe a place in your country where you go to exercise.
You should say:
- Where it is
- What kind of exercise you do there
- How often you go there
- And explain why you like exercising in this place
Band 6-7 Sample Answer:
The place I’d like to talk about is a public park in my city. It’s located about 10 minutes from my home and is quite popular among local residents.
At this park, I usually go jogging or use the outdoor gym equipment. There’s a 2-kilometer track that circles the park, which is perfect for running. The park also has some basic exercise machines like pull-up bars and leg press machines.
I try to visit this park at least three times a week, usually in the early morning before work or in the evening after I finish my day.
I really enjoy exercising in this place for several reasons. Firstly, it’s very convenient as it’s close to my home. Secondly, the natural environment with trees and fresh air makes working out more enjoyable. Lastly, it’s free to use, which is great for my budget.
Band 8-9 Sample Answer:
I’d like to describe a state-of-the-art sports complex that has become my go-to destination for physical activity. This cutting-edge facility is situated on the outskirts of my city, about a 15-minute drive from my residence.
The complex offers a wide array of exercise options, catering to various fitness preferences. Personally, I engage in a diverse workout regimen that includes cardiovascular exercises on the indoor track, strength training in the well-equipped gym, and occasionally participating in group fitness classes like yoga or high-intensity interval training.
I make it a point to frequent this establishment at least four times a week, typically alternating between morning and evening sessions to accommodate my work schedule. This consistent routine has become an integral part of my lifestyle.
There are numerous reasons why I’m particularly fond of this exercise venue. Firstly, the state-of-the-art equipment and facilities provide an optimal environment for achieving my fitness goals. Secondly, the presence of professional trainers offers valuable guidance and motivation. Moreover, the social aspect of working out alongside like-minded individuals creates a sense of community and camaraderie. Lastly, the complex’s commitment to cleanliness and hygiene gives me peace of mind, especially in today’s health-conscious world.
Modern sports complex workout area
Follow-up questions:
Q: How has this place changed over time?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Over the years, the park has seen some improvements. They’ve added more exercise equipment and improved the jogging track. Also, more people seem to be using it now compared to when I first started going there.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The sports complex has undergone a remarkable transformation since its inception. Initially a modest facility, it has evolved into a comprehensive fitness hub. The management has consistently invested in cutting-edge equipment, expanded the variety of group classes offered, and even introduced a nutrition center. Moreover, they’ve implemented a user-friendly mobile app for booking sessions and tracking progress, reflecting their commitment to embracing technological advancements in the fitness industry.
Q: Do you think the government should provide more public exercise spaces?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think it would be good if the government provided more public exercise spaces. It would help people stay healthy and might reduce healthcare costs in the long run.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely, I firmly believe that increasing the number of public exercise spaces should be a priority for governmental urban planning. Such initiatives would not only promote public health but could also foster a sense of community. By providing accessible and well-maintained exercise facilities, the government can encourage a more active lifestyle among citizens, potentially leading to reduced healthcare costs and improved overall well-being. Furthermore, these spaces can serve as social hubs, enhancing community cohesion and quality of life in urban areas.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some examples:
Q: How do you think technology has changed the way people exercise?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Technology has had a big impact on exercise. Many people now use fitness apps or smartwatches to track their workouts. Online fitness classes have also become popular, especially since the pandemic.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Technology has revolutionized the fitness landscape in numerous ways. Wearable devices and smartphone apps have made it possible for individuals to meticulously track their physical activity, set personalized goals, and receive real-time feedback. This data-driven approach has empowered people to take greater control of their fitness journeys. Moreover, the rise of virtual reality and augmented reality technologies is creating immersive workout experiences, making exercise more engaging and enjoyable. The proliferation of online fitness platforms has also democratized access to expert guidance, allowing people to participate in high-quality workouts from the comfort of their homes. This technological integration has not only made fitness more accessible but has also fostered a global community of health enthusiasts, facilitating knowledge sharing and mutual motivation on an unprecedented scale.
Q: Do you think there’s too much pressure on people to stay fit in modern society?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think there is a lot of pressure to stay fit nowadays. Social media often shows perfect body images, which can make people feel bad about themselves. However, being healthy is important, so some pressure can be good.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The pressure to maintain peak physical fitness in contemporary society is indeed a double-edged sword. On one hand, the emphasis on health and wellness has undoubtedly contributed to increased awareness about the importance of physical activity and proper nutrition. This focus has spurred many individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles, potentially leading to improved public health outcomes. However, the pervasive nature of idealized body images, particularly on social media platforms, has also created unrealistic expectations and can lead to negative self-perception and even mental health issues. It’s crucial to strike a balance between promoting healthy habits and accepting diverse body types. Society needs to shift towards a more holistic view of fitness that encompasses both physical and mental well-being, rather than focusing solely on aesthetic ideals. Ultimately, the goal should be to encourage sustainable, enjoyable approaches to fitness that enhance overall quality of life, rather than creating anxiety or feelings of inadequacy.
People engaging in diverse fitness activities
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
State-of-the-art [steɪt əv ði ɑːrt] (adjective): The most recent and advanced stage of development of something.
Example: The gym features state-of-the-art equipment for a superior workout experience.Multifaceted [ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd] (adjective): Having many different aspects or features.
Example: The sports complex offers a multifaceted approach to fitness, catering to various exercise preferences.Integral [ˈɪntɪɡrəl] (adjective): Essential or fundamental.
Example: Regular exercise has become an integral part of my daily routine.Rigorous [ˈrɪɡərəs] (adjective): Extremely thorough and careful.
Example: I prefer a rigorous workout that challenges me both physically and mentally.To engage in [tu ɪnˈɡeɪdʒ ɪn] (phrasal verb): To participate or become involved in.
Example: I engage in various forms of exercise to maintain my fitness level.Camaraderie [ˌkæməˈrɑːdəri] (noun): Mutual trust and friendship among people who spend a lot of time together.
Example: The group fitness classes foster a sense of camaraderie among participants.
Tips from an IELTS Examiner
Practice regularly: Dedicate time each day to speaking English, even if it’s just talking to yourself about your daily activities.
Expand your vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases related to exercise and health, and practice using them in context.
Work on fluency: Focus on speaking smoothly and confidently, even if you make small mistakes. It’s better to keep talking than to pause frequently to find the perfect word.
Use a variety of sentence structures: Mix simple and complex sentences to demonstrate your command of English grammar.
Provide specific examples: When describing your exercise routine or favorite workout spot, include detailed examples to make your answers more vivid and engaging.
Listen to podcasts or watch videos about fitness and exercise in English to familiarize yourself with relevant vocabulary and expressions.
Record yourself answering practice questions and listen back to identify areas for improvement.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about knowing the right answers, but about expressing yourself clearly, confidently, and naturally in English. Good luck with your preparation!