The topic of describing a relaxing hobby is a popular one in IELTS Speaking tests. It has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain a common theme in future tests. This topic allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to discuss personal experiences, express preferences, and use descriptive language effectively.

Describe an activity that helps you relax is a closely related topic that you may also encounter in your IELTS Speaking test. Being prepared to discuss various relaxing activities will give you an advantage in the exam.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about hobbies and relaxation. Here are some potential questions and a sample answer:

Sample Question: What do you like to do in your free time to relax?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“One of my favorite ways to unwind is through gardening. I find it incredibly therapeutic to get my hands dirty and nurture plants. There’s something deeply satisfying about watching seeds grow into beautiful flowers or vegetables. It’s not just a hobby; it’s a form of meditation for me, allowing me to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature.”

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Cue Card:

Describe A Hobby You Find Relaxing
You should say:

• What the hobby is
• How often you do it
• Why you find it relaxing
• And explain how you became interested in this hobby

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to talk about my passion for cooking, which I find incredibly relaxing.

Cooking has been my go-to stress-buster for several years now. I try to indulge in this hobby at least three to four times a week, especially after a long day at work or during weekends when I have more time to experiment with complex recipes.

The reason I find cooking so relaxing is multifaceted. Firstly, it requires my full attention, which means I can’t dwell on work-related stress or other worries. The act of chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients, and following recipes is almost meditative. Secondly, cooking engages all my senses – the sizzle of ingredients in the pan, the aroma of spices, the vibrant colors of fresh produce, and of course, the satisfaction of tasting the final dish. This sensory experience is incredibly grounding and calming.

Moreover, there’s a sense of accomplishment that comes with creating something delicious from scratch. It’s a tangible result of my efforts, which is very rewarding and boosts my mood.

My interest in cooking stemmed from necessity when I moved away from home for university. Initially, it was just about sustaining myself, but I quickly discovered that I enjoyed the process. I started with simple recipes and gradually challenged myself with more complex dishes. Watching cooking shows and following food bloggers further fueled my interest, inspiring me to try new techniques and cuisines.

Over time, what started as a necessity has evolved into a beloved hobby that not only helps me relax but also allows me to express my creativity and share joy with others through the food I prepare.”

Person cooking in a relaxed kitchen setting

Follow-up Questions:

1. How has this hobby impacted your life?
2. Would you recommend this hobby to others for relaxation?

Sample Answers (Band 8-9):

1. “This hobby has had a profound impact on my life. Not only has it become my primary method of stress relief, but it’s also improved my nutrition and expanded my cultural awareness. Through exploring different cuisines, I’ve learned about various cultures and traditions. Moreover, it’s become a social activity – I often invite friends over for dinner parties, which has strengthened my relationships. Cooking has also taught me valuable life skills like patience, creativity, and the importance of preparation.”

2. “I would wholeheartedly recommend cooking as a relaxing hobby to others. It’s accessible to everyone, regardless of skill level or budget. Starting with simple recipes can build confidence, and the learning process is enjoyable. Cooking also offers immediate gratification – you can enjoy the fruits of your labor right away. Additionally, it’s a versatile hobby that can be tailored to individual interests, whether that’s baking, international cuisines, or healthy eating. The stress-relieving benefits, combined with the practical life skill it develops, make it an excellent hobby for anyone looking to unwind.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Sample Questions and Answers:

1. Q: How do hobbies contribute to a person’s well-being?

   A (Band 8-9): “Hobbies play a crucial role in maintaining a person’s overall well-being. They provide a necessary outlet for stress and act as a counterbalance to work-related pressures. Engaging in hobbies can boost self-esteem through the mastery of new skills and the sense of accomplishment that comes with it. Moreover, hobbies often foster social connections, whether it’s joining a club or sharing experiences with like-minded individuals. This social aspect is vital for mental health.

   Additionally, hobbies can stimulate cognitive function, especially those that involve problem-solving or creativity, which is particularly beneficial as we age. They also provide a sense of identity outside of one’s professional life, contributing to a more well-rounded personality. In essence, hobbies are not just pastimes; they’re essential components of a balanced, fulfilling life.”

2. Q: Do you think the types of hobbies people choose have changed over the generations?

   A (Band 8-9): “There’s no doubt that hobbies have evolved significantly across generations, largely due to technological advancements and societal changes. In the past, hobbies tended to be more hands-on and often necessity-driven, such as knitting, woodworking, or gardening. While these traditional hobbies still exist, we’ve seen a surge in digital and tech-based hobbies.

   For instance, video gaming has become a major hobby for many, spanning casual mobile games to professional e-sports. Social media content creation, including vlogging and Instagram photography, has also emerged as a popular pastime. We’re also seeing a rise in virtual experiences, like online book clubs or virtual museum tours.

   Interestingly, there’s been a recent resurgence of ‘analog’ hobbies among younger generations, perhaps as a reaction to our increasingly digital world. Activities like urban gardening, crafting, and vinyl record collecting have gained popularity.

   Moreover, the concept of hobbies has expanded. Many people now pursue side hustles or engage in continuous learning through online courses, blurring the lines between hobbies, personal development, and potential career paths.

   These shifts reflect broader changes in our society, including increased connectivity, changing work-life balance, and a growing emphasis on personal fulfillment and self-expression.”

Contrasting traditional and modern hobbies

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

1. Unwind (verb) /ʌnˈwaɪnd/ – to relax after a period of work or tension
   Example: “After a stressful day, I like to unwind by reading a good book.”

2. Therapeutic (adjective) /ˌθerəˈpjuːtɪk/ – having a good effect on the body or mind; contributing to a sense of well-being
   Example: “Many people find gardening therapeutic as it helps them connect with nature.”

3. Get one’s hands dirty (idiom) – to do practical work; to become actively involved
   Example: “I enjoy getting my hands dirty in the garden, planting new flowers and vegetables.”

4. Disconnect (verb) /ˌdɪskəˈnekt/ – to separate or isolate oneself from something
   Example: “Painting allows me to disconnect from my daily worries and focus on creativity.”

5. Indulge in (phrasal verb) /ɪnˈdʌldʒ ɪn/ – to allow oneself to enjoy the pleasure of something
   Example: “I try to indulge in my hobby of photography at least once a week.”

6. Go-to (adjective) /ˈɡoʊ tuː/ – regularly or habitually used or turned to
   Example: “Cooking is my go-to activity when I need to de-stress.”

7. Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
   Example: “The benefits of this hobby are multifaceted, improving both my physical and mental well-being.”

Describe a puzzle you have played is another interesting topic that could come up in your IELTS Speaking test. Being able to discuss various types of activities and games can demonstrate your range of vocabulary and experiences.

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing hobbies:

1. Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate descriptive adjectives and specific terms related to your hobby.
2. Provide detailed explanations: Don’t just state facts; elaborate on your points with examples and personal experiences.
3. Show enthusiasm: Your tone and manner should reflect genuine interest in the topic.
4. Use idiomatic expressions: Naturally incorporate idioms and colloquial phrases to demonstrate language fluency.
5. Practice speaking at length: Train yourself to speak for 2 minutes without hesitation for Part 2.
6. Develop your ideas: In Part 3, aim to give extended answers that show depth of thought and analysis.

Remember, the key to success is not just knowing what to say, but how to say it effectively and naturally. Regular practice with a variety of topics will help you feel more confident and perform better on test day.

Describe a park or garden in your city is another topic that could potentially relate to relaxing hobbies, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities or nature. Being prepared to discuss various aspects of your environment can be beneficial for the IELTS Speaking test.