Discussing individuals who motivate us to stay fit is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. This theme often appears in Part 2 and Part 3, allowing candidates to showcase their English skills while reflecting on personal experiences and broader societal trends in health and fitness. As we explore this topic, we’ll provide sample answers and strategies to help you excel in your IELTS Speaking exam.

Describe a person who motivates you to follow your dreams can be similar to describing someone who inspires your fitness journey, as both involve personal motivation and goal-setting.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, you may encounter questions related to health and fitness. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:

Examiner: Do you enjoy exercising?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely! I find exercise to be incredibly invigorating. Not only does it keep me physically fit, but it also does wonders for my mental health. I particularly enjoy high-intensity interval training and yoga, as they provide a perfect balance of cardio and flexibility work. The endorphin rush after a good workout is unparalleled, and it really sets a positive tone for my entire day.”

Part 2: Long Turn

Now, let’s look at a potential cue card for this topic:

Describe a person who motivates you to stay fit.
You should say:

• Who this person is
• How you know them
• What they do to stay fit
• And explain why they motivate you

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to talk about my close friend, Sarah, who has been an incredible source of inspiration for my fitness journey. I met Sarah during our university days, and we’ve remained tight-knit ever since.

Sarah is a dedicated fitness enthusiast who works as a physical therapist. Her approach to staying fit is both holistic and balanced. She follows a rigorous workout regimen that includes a mix of strength training, cardio, and flexibility exercises. What’s particularly impressive is her commitment to clean eating – she meticulously plans her meals to ensure she’s fueling her body with the right nutrients.

What truly motivates me about Sarah is her unwavering discipline and positive attitude towards fitness. Despite her demanding job, she never fails to prioritize her health. She views exercise not as a chore, but as a celebration of what her body can achieve. Her infectious enthusiasm has rubbed off on me, encouraging me to push my limits and set higher fitness goals.

Moreover, Sarah’s journey to fitness wasn’t always smooth sailing. She overcame significant health challenges in her youth, which makes her dedication even more inspiring. Her resilience in the face of adversity and her ability to transform her life through fitness have shown me that with determination, anyone can achieve their health goals.

In essence, Sarah motivates me because she embodies the idea that fitness is not just about physical appearance, but about cultivating a lifestyle that promotes overall well-being. Her influence has been instrumental in helping me maintain a consistent fitness routine and adopt a more positive outlook on health and wellness.”

Follow-up Questions:

Examiner: How has this person’s influence changed your fitness habits?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Sarah’s influence has been truly transformative for my fitness habits. Before knowing her, I was quite inconsistent with my workouts and often lacked motivation. However, her example has inspired me to establish a regular exercise routine and set concrete fitness goals. I’ve adopted her practice of meal prepping, which has significantly improved my nutrition. Moreover, her emphasis on holistic wellness has led me to incorporate mindfulness practices like meditation into my daily routine, enhancing both my physical and mental well-being.”

Examiner: Do you think having a fitness role model is important for everyone?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe having a fitness role model can be highly beneficial for most people, though it might not be essential for everyone. A role model can provide motivation, guidance, and a tangible example of what can be achieved through dedication to fitness. They can inspire us to push our boundaries and maintain consistency in our health routines. However, it’s important to note that everyone’s fitness journey is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. The key is to find inspiration that aligns with your personal goals and values, whether that comes from a specific individual or from your own internal motivation.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: How do you think social media influencers impact people’s attitudes towards fitness?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Social media influencers have a profound and multifaceted impact on people’s attitudes towards fitness. On the positive side, they can serve as a source of motivation and inspiration, showcasing diverse body types and fitness routines that can appeal to a wide audience. Many influencers provide valuable information on workout techniques, nutrition, and overall wellness, making fitness knowledge more accessible to the general public.

However, there’s also a potential downside to this influence. The curated and often idealized images presented on social media can create unrealistic expectations about body image and fitness progress. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy or even unhealthy behaviors as people strive to emulate what they see online. Moreover, not all influencers provide scientifically sound advice, which can result in the spread of misinformation.

It’s crucial for individuals to approach fitness content on social media with a critical eye, understanding that what works for an influencer may not be suitable or healthy for everyone. The key is to find a balance – using social media as a tool for inspiration and information while maintaining a realistic and personalized approach to one’s own fitness journey.”

Examiner: In what ways has technology changed how people approach fitness?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Technology has revolutionized the fitness landscape in numerous ways. Fitness tracking devices and apps have made it easier for people to monitor their physical activity, set goals, and track progress. This quantification of exercise has motivated many to be more active in their daily lives.

Online workout platforms and virtual fitness classes have made exercise more accessible and convenient, allowing people to work out from the comfort of their homes. This has been particularly significant during the recent global pandemic.

AI-powered personal training apps are providing tailored workout and nutrition plans, making professional guidance more affordable and available to a wider audience. Social fitness apps have added a community aspect to working out, allowing people to connect, compete, and support each other’s fitness journeys.

However, it’s worth noting that this technological saturation can sometimes lead to an over-reliance on gadgets and a disconnection from the intrinsic joy of movement. It’s important for individuals to find a balance, using technology as a tool to enhance their fitness journey rather than letting it dictate every aspect of their routine.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Holistic approach /həʊˈlɪstɪk əˈprəʊtʃ/ (noun phrase): Considering the whole person, including physical, mental, and social factors.
   Example: “Sarah’s holistic approach to fitness includes both exercise and mindfulness practices.”

2. Unwavering commitment /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ kəˈmɪtmənt/ (noun phrase): Steady and determined dedication.
   Example: “His unwavering commitment to his fitness goals is truly inspiring.”

3. To cultivate /ˈkʌltɪveɪt/ (verb): To develop or improve through effort.
   Example: “Regular exercise helps to cultivate a positive mindset.”

4. Instrumental /ˌɪnstrʊˈmentl/ (adjective): Serving as a crucial means or agency.
   Example: “My friend’s support was instrumental in helping me stick to my fitness routine.”

5. To embody /ɪmˈbɒdi/ (verb): To represent an idea or quality in a clear and obvious way.
   Example: “The fitness instructor embodies the principles of healthy living she teaches.”

Describe a person who always encourages others can be relevant when discussing someone who motivates you to stay fit, as encouragement often plays a key role in fitness motivation.

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing fitness motivation:

1. Use a variety of vocabulary related to health and fitness, demonstrating your range of language.
2. Provide specific examples and personal anecdotes to support your points, making your responses more engaging and authentic.
3. Practice speaking about fitness topics regularly, focusing on fluency and coherence in your responses.
4. Be prepared to discuss both personal experiences and broader societal trends related to health and fitness.
5. Develop your ideas fully, especially in Parts 2 and 3, to showcase your ability to speak at length on the topic.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about fitness knowledge, but about communicating your thoughts effectively in English. Focus on clarity, coherence, and confident delivery of your ideas.

IELTS candidate preparing for speaking test

Describe a person you admire for their work ethic could also be applied to someone who inspires you in fitness, as maintaining a fitness routine often requires a strong work ethic.