As an experienced IELTS examiner, I’ve noticed that the topic “Describe a person who has inspired you to stay active” is becoming increasingly popular in IELTS Speaking tests. This theme allows candidates to showcase their language skills while discussing personal experiences and role models. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to excel in answering questions related to this topic across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about staying active and fitness. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Q1: Do you enjoy staying active?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do enjoy staying active. I try to exercise regularly and participate in various sports activities. It helps me stay healthy and energetic.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I’m a firm believer in the benefits of an active lifestyle. Not only does it keep me physically fit, but it also has a tremendous impact on my mental well-being. I make it a point to incorporate a mix of cardio and strength training into my weekly routine, which helps me stay energized and focused throughout my day-to-day activities.
Q2: How often do you exercise?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I try to exercise at least three times a week. Usually, I go for a jog or hit the gym after work. It helps me unwind and stay fit.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I’ve made it a priority to maintain a consistent exercise regimen. Typically, I engage in physical activities five to six times a week, alternating between high-intensity interval training, yoga, and strength training. This variety not only prevents monotony but also ensures a well-rounded approach to fitness, targeting different aspects of my physical health.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a person who has inspired you to stay active
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know them
- What they do to stay active
- And explain how they have inspired you to stay active
Band 6-7 Answer:
The person who has inspired me to stay active is my uncle, John. He’s my father’s younger brother, and I’ve known him since I was a child. Uncle John is in his fifties now, but he’s always been very fitness-conscious.
To stay active, Uncle John goes for a morning run every day, rain or shine. He also plays tennis twice a week and goes hiking on weekends. What’s impressive is that he manages to do all this while having a busy job as a bank manager.
Uncle John has inspired me to stay active because of his dedication and the positive impact it has had on his life. He always looks energetic and youthful, despite his age. Whenever we meet, he encourages me to join him for a run or a hike, and his enthusiasm is contagious. Seeing how fit and healthy he is at his age has motivated me to make exercise a regular part of my routine.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The individual who has been a profound source of inspiration for me in terms of maintaining an active lifestyle is my former high school PE teacher, Ms. Rodriguez. I had the privilege of being her student for four years, during which time she left an indelible mark on my approach to physical fitness and overall well-being.
Ms. Rodriguez is the epitome of an active lifestyle advocate. Her commitment to fitness is truly remarkable, encompassing a diverse range of activities. She starts each day with an invigorating session of yoga or Pilates, which she credits for her exceptional flexibility and core strength. Throughout the week, she alternates between high-intensity interval training and strength training, ensuring a well-rounded fitness regimen. What’s particularly admirable is her passion for outdoor activities; she’s an avid rock climber and participates in triathlons, showcasing her versatility and endurance.
The way Ms. Rodriguez has inspired me to stay active is multifaceted. Firstly, her unwavering dedication to fitness, despite her demanding schedule as an educator, has shown me that it’s possible to prioritize health regardless of life’s challenges. She’s living proof that age is just a number when it comes to physical capabilities. Moreover, her approach to fitness is not just about physical appearance but about overall well-being and longevity.
What truly sets Ms. Rodriguez apart is her ability to make fitness enjoyable and inclusive. She introduced me to the concept of finding joy in movement, rather than viewing exercise as a chore. Her enthusiasm for trying new activities and constantly challenging herself has encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and explore various forms of exercise.
In essence, Ms. Rodriguez has not only inspired me to stay active but has fundamentally altered my perception of what it means to lead a healthy, active lifestyle. Her influence extends beyond physical fitness, encompassing mental resilience, discipline, and the pursuit of continuous self-improvement.
Follow-up Questions:
- How has this person’s influence changed your daily routine?
- What challenges have you faced in trying to maintain an active lifestyle like theirs?
Band 6-7 Answer for Q1:
Uncle John’s influence has definitely changed my daily routine. I now try to wake up earlier to go for a short run before work. I’ve also started playing sports on weekends instead of just watching TV. It’s been a positive change in my life.
Band 8-9 Answer for Q1:
Ms. Rodriguez’s influence has been transformative in reshaping my daily routine. I’ve adopted a more structured approach to incorporating physical activity into my day-to-day life. For instance, I now prioritize early morning workouts, which not only boost my energy levels but also enhance my productivity throughout the day. I’ve also embraced the concept of active commuting, opting to cycle to work when weather permits, which serves the dual purpose of exercise and reducing my carbon footprint.
Moreover, I’ve integrated micro-workouts into my work breaks, performing quick sets of bodyweight exercises or stretches to combat the sedentary nature of office work. Perhaps most significantly, I’ve cultivated a mindset where I seek out opportunities for movement in everyday activities, whether it’s taking the stairs instead of the elevator or suggesting walking meetings with colleagues. This holistic approach to an active lifestyle, inspired by Ms. Rodriguez, has not only improved my physical health but has also had a profound impact on my mental clarity and overall well-being.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Q1: How can society encourage more people to lead active lifestyles?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think society can encourage more people to be active by providing better facilities and organizing community events. For example, cities can build more parks and sports centers. Schools can also play a role by making physical education more fun and engaging for students.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Encouraging a more active society requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both individual motivations and systemic barriers. Firstly, there’s a critical need for education and awareness campaigns that highlight the long-term benefits of an active lifestyle, not just in terms of physical health but also mental well-being and cognitive function. These campaigns should be tailored to different age groups and demographics to ensure maximum resonance.
Secondly, urban planning plays a crucial role. Cities should be designed with active living in mind, incorporating extensive networks of bike lanes, pedestrian-friendly walkways, and easily accessible green spaces. This infrastructure encourages incidental exercise and makes physical activity a more natural part of daily routines.
Moreover, workplace initiatives can significantly impact societal habits. Companies could offer incentives for active commuting, provide on-site fitness facilities, or organize team-building activities centered around physical challenges. This not only promotes employee health but also cultivates a culture where staying active is valued and normalized.
Lastly, leveraging technology could be a game-changer. The gamification of fitness through apps and wearable devices has already shown promise in motivating individuals. Expanding this concept to community-wide challenges or rewards systems could create a sense of collective purpose and friendly competition, further encouraging widespread participation in active lifestyles.
Q2: Do you think social media influencers play a role in inspiring people to stay active?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I believe social media influencers can play a big role in inspiring people to stay active. Many influencers share their workout routines and healthy lifestyle tips, which can motivate their followers. However, it’s important for people to remember that not everything they see on social media is realistic or achievable for everyone.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Social media influencers undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping public perceptions and behaviors around fitness and active lifestyles, but this influence is a double-edged sword that warrants careful consideration.
On the positive side, influencers have the power to democratize fitness information and inspiration, making it accessible to a wide audience. They can showcase diverse approaches to staying active, catering to different interests, body types, and fitness levels. This variety can help individuals find activities that resonate with them personally, potentially increasing long-term adherence to active lifestyles. Moreover, the visual nature of platforms like Instagram and TikTok allows influencers to demonstrate proper form and technique, which can be educational for beginners.
However, there are notable drawbacks to the influencer-driven fitness culture. The curated and often unrealistic portrayals of body images and fitness achievements can lead to feelings of inadequacy or unrealistic expectations among followers. There’s also the risk of unqualified individuals dispensing potentially harmful advice, as not all influencers have proper certifications or expertise in fitness and nutrition.
Furthermore, the commercialization of fitness content on social media platforms can blur the lines between genuine advice and product promotion, potentially leading followers to prioritize quick fixes or trendy products over sustainable, evidence-based approaches to fitness.
In conclusion, while social media influencers can serve as powerful motivators and sources of information for those seeking to lead more active lives, it’s crucial for consumers to approach this content with a critical eye. A balanced approach would involve complementing influencer content with information from certified professionals and reputable health organizations. Ultimately, the most effective inspiration for staying active often comes from real-life role models and personal experiences rather than curated online personas.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking when discussing this topic, consider using the following vocabulary and phrases:
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Sedentary lifestyle /ˈsed.ən.ter.i ˌlaɪf.staɪl/ (noun): A way of life that involves little or no physical activity.
Example: “Many office workers struggle to avoid a sedentary lifestyle due to long hours at their desks.” -
Holistic approach /həʊˈlɪs.tɪk əˈprəʊtʃ/ (noun phrase): Considering all aspects of something, especially in relation to health and well-being.
Example: “Ms. Rodriguez advocated for a holistic approach to fitness, focusing on both physical and mental well-being.” -
To cultivate /ˈkʌl.tɪ.veɪt/ (verb): To develop or acquire a particular habit, skill, or quality.
Example: “Through her influence, I’ve cultivated a habit of incorporating movement into my daily routine.” -
Resilience /rɪˈzɪl.i.əns/ (noun): The ability to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.
Example: “Regular exercise has improved not only my physical fitness but also my mental resilience.” -
To prioritize /praɪˈɒr.ə.taɪz/ (verb): To arrange items or tasks in order of importance.
Example: “I’ve learned to prioritize my health by scheduling regular workout sessions, despite my busy schedule.” -
Invigorating /ɪnˈvɪɡ.ər.eɪ.tɪŋ/ (adjective): Making one feel strong, healthy, and full of energy.
Example: “Starting the day with an invigorating run sets a positive tone for the rest of my activities.”
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing topics like “Describe a person who has inspired you to stay active,” focus on the following:
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Develop your ideas: Don’t just list facts; explain your thoughts and feelings about the person and their influence on you.
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Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate topic-specific terms and advanced vocabulary to demonstrate your language proficiency.
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Maintain fluency: Practice speaking on this topic to improve your ability to discuss it smoothly and confidently.
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Show personality: Share personal anecdotes and opinions to make your responses more engaging and authentic.
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Structure your answers: Use discourse markers and linking phrases to organize your ideas logically, especially in Part 2 and 3 responses.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about answering the question, but doing so in a way that showcases your English language skills effectively.
For more tips on improving your IELTS Speaking performance, you might find our article on how to describe a person who has shaped your views on social justice helpful. Additionally, exploring topics like describing a recent cultural or social movement you supported can broaden your range of discussion topics and vocabulary for the IELTS Speaking test.