The topic of describing a healthy habit you recently adopted is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to discuss personal experiences, express opinions, and use vocabulary related to health and lifestyle. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests.
Describe a subject you found difficult in school may seem unrelated, but developing healthy habits can actually help overcome academic challenges. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions about a recently adopted healthy habit in each part of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about your health habits. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Q: Do you have any healthy habits?
A (Band 7-8): Absolutely. I’ve recently started practicing mindfulness meditation every morning. It’s been incredibly beneficial for my mental well-being and helps me start the day on a positive note. I find that it reduces stress and improves my focus throughout the day.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a healthy habit you recently adopted
You should say:
- What the habit is
- When you started it
- Why you decided to adopt this habit
- And explain how this habit has affected your life
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
I’d like to talk about a healthy habit I’ve recently incorporated into my daily routine: intermittent fasting. I embarked on this journey about three months ago, primarily motivated by the numerous health benefits I’d read about and heard from friends.
Intermittent fasting involves limiting my eating window to 8 hours a day, typically from noon to 8 PM, and fasting for the remaining 16 hours. What initially piqued my interest was the potential for improved metabolic health and increased mental clarity.
The decision to adopt this habit was multifaceted. Firstly, I was intrigued by the scientific research supporting its benefits, such as enhanced cellular repair and potential longevity. Secondly, I was looking for a sustainable way to manage my weight without resorting to restrictive diets. Lastly, I was curious to see if it would boost my energy levels and productivity.
Since incorporating intermittent fasting into my lifestyle, I’ve noticed several positive changes. My energy levels have significantly improved, especially in the mornings. I feel more alert and focused during work hours, which has boosted my productivity. Moreover, I’ve observed a gradual improvement in my body composition without making drastic changes to my diet.
Perhaps the most unexpected benefit has been the sense of discipline and control it’s instilled in me. Adhering to this eating pattern has strengthened my willpower, which has positively impacted other areas of my life. I find myself making healthier food choices overall and being more mindful of my eating habits.
In conclusion, adopting intermittent fasting has been a transformative experience. It’s not just about the physical benefits; it’s also about the mental resilience and self-awareness it has fostered. This habit has truly become an integral part of my lifestyle, contributing to my overall well-being in ways I hadn’t anticipated.
Intermittent fasting benefits and daily routine diagram
Follow-up questions:
Q: Do you think it’s challenging for most people to adopt new healthy habits?
A (Band 7-8): Undoubtedly, adopting new habits can be quite challenging for many individuals. It often requires a significant shift in mindset and daily routines, which can be daunting. However, I believe that with proper motivation, clear goals, and a gradual approach, most people can successfully integrate healthy habits into their lives.
Q: How can technology help people maintain healthy habits?
A (Band 8-9): Technology can play a pivotal role in helping individuals maintain healthy habits. Smartphone apps, for instance, can track progress, set reminders, and provide valuable insights into one’s behavior patterns. Wearable devices can monitor physical activity and sleep quality, offering real-time feedback. Additionally, online communities and social media platforms can provide support and motivation, creating a sense of accountability and shared experience.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: What do you think are the most important healthy habits people should adopt?
A (Band 7-8): In my opinion, some of the most crucial healthy habits people should adopt include regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep. These form the foundation of good health and can significantly impact overall well-being. Additionally, stress management techniques like meditation or yoga can be incredibly beneficial in our fast-paced world.
A (Band 8-9): I believe that the cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle lies in a multifaceted approach. Firstly, maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet is paramount, focusing on whole foods and limiting processed items. Equally important is regular physical activity, which should include both cardiovascular exercise and strength training. Furthermore, prioritizing quality sleep is often underestimated but crucial for physical and mental recovery. I would also emphasize the importance of mental health practices, such as mindfulness or cognitive behavioral techniques, to manage stress and maintain emotional well-being. Lastly, staying hydrated and limiting harmful substances like alcohol and tobacco are essential components of a comprehensive healthy lifestyle.
Q: How has the concept of a healthy lifestyle changed in recent years?
A (Band 7-8): The concept of a healthy lifestyle has evolved significantly in recent years. There’s now a greater emphasis on mental health alongside physical health. People are more aware of the importance of work-life balance and stress management. Additionally, there’s been a shift towards personalized health approaches, recognizing that what works for one person may not work for another.
A (Band 8-9): The notion of a healthy lifestyle has undergone a profound transformation in recent years, reflecting our deepening understanding of human health and well-being. Firstly, there’s been a paradigm shift from a purely physical focus to a more holistic approach that encompasses mental and emotional health. Mental health awareness has skyrocketed, with practices like mindfulness and therapy becoming mainstream.
Secondly, the concept of personalized health has gained traction, acknowledging the uniqueness of individual bodies and lifestyles. This has led to a surge in popularity of genetic testing and personalized nutrition plans.
Moreover, there’s been a growing recognition of the interconnectedness between personal health and environmental sustainability. This has sparked interest in plant-based diets and eco-friendly fitness practices.
Lastly, technology has revolutionized how we approach health, with wearable devices and health apps providing unprecedented insights into our daily habits and bodily functions. This data-driven approach has empowered individuals to take greater control of their health journey.
How to describe a person who is very good at managing time in IELTS Speaking is another interesting topic that relates to healthy habits, as effective time management often leads to a more balanced and healthier lifestyle.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Incorporate /ɪnˈkɔːpəreɪt/ (verb): To include or absorb something as part of a whole.
Example: “I’ve incorporated a 30-minute walk into my daily routine.”Pivotal /ˈpɪvətl/ (adjective): Of crucial importance in relation to the development or success of something else.
Example: “Regular exercise plays a pivotal role in maintaining good health.”Holistic /həʊˈlɪstɪk/ (adjective): Characterized by the treatment of the whole person, taking into account mental and social factors, rather than just the symptoms of a disease.
Example: “I prefer a holistic approach to health that considers both physical and mental well-being.”Paradigm shift /ˈparədaɪm ʃɪft/ (noun phrase): A fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions.
Example: “The focus on mental health represents a paradigm shift in our understanding of overall well-being.”Resilience /rɪˈzɪliəns/ (noun): The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.
Example: “Adopting healthy habits has improved my resilience to stress.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing healthy habits:
- Use a variety of sophisticated vocabulary and idiomatic expressions related to health and lifestyle.
- Provide detailed explanations and examples to support your points.
- Demonstrate critical thinking by discussing both the benefits and potential challenges of adopting healthy habits.
- Show awareness of current health trends and research when appropriate.
- Maintain fluency by practicing speaking about your own health habits and those of others.
- Use a range of grammatical structures accurately, including complex sentences.
Remember, the key to success is not just knowing the language, but being able to use it effectively to express your thoughts and experiences.
Describe a person who inspired you to focus on sustainability could be an interesting way to connect healthy habits with environmental consciousness in your IELTS Speaking test.