The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about health, lifestyle, and personal influences. One common topic that candidates may encounter is describing a person who motivates them to stay healthy. This article will provide you with valuable insights and tips to excel in this speaking task, helping you achieve a high band score in your IELTS Speaking exam.
Understanding the Topic
Before we dive into the specifics, it’s essential to understand why this topic is relevant to the IELTS Speaking test. Examiners often ask about personal influences and health habits to assess your ability to discuss everyday topics, express opinions, and describe relationships. By preparing for this topic, you’ll be equipped to handle similar questions about motivation, health, and personal connections.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1 of the Speaking test, you may be asked general questions about health and fitness. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
-
Do you think you have a healthy lifestyle?
Sample answer (Band 6-7): “I try to maintain a healthy lifestyle. I eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly, but I know there’s always room for improvement.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9): “I’d say I strive for a balanced approach to health. While I’m conscientious about my diet and make a point of exercising regularly, I also believe in moderation and allowing myself occasional indulgences. It’s all about sustainable habits in my view.”
-
What do you do to stay healthy?
Sample answer (Band 6-7): “To stay healthy, I go to the gym three times a week and try to eat more fruits and vegetables. I also make sure to get enough sleep.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9): “I adopt a holistic approach to health. This includes regular cardiovascular exercise and strength training, prioritizing nutrient-dense foods in my diet, and ensuring adequate sleep. I also practice mindfulness to manage stress, which I believe is crucial for overall well-being.”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a potential cue card related to the topic:
Describe a person who motivates you to stay healthy
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know them
- What they do to stay healthy
- Why they motivate you
And explain how they have influenced your health habits.
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“The person who motivates me to stay healthy is my friend Sarah. I’ve known her since college, where we were roommates. Sarah is really into fitness and healthy eating. She goes to the gym regularly and always chooses nutritious foods. What I find inspiring about her is her dedication and how she manages to balance her healthy lifestyle with her busy job.
Sarah motivates me because she shows that it’s possible to stay healthy even with a hectic schedule. She’s always full of energy and looks great, which makes me want to follow her example. Thanks to her influence, I’ve started going to the gym more often and paying more attention to what I eat. She’s taught me a lot about nutrition and has even shared some healthy recipes with me.
Her positive attitude towards health has really rubbed off on me. Now, I find myself making healthier choices without even thinking about it. It’s great to have someone who not only sets a good example but also encourages me to be the best version of myself.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about my colleague, Dr. James Chen, who has been a profound source of inspiration when it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. I had the privilege of meeting James when I joined the research department at our university three years ago.
James is the epitome of health-conscious living. He’s an avid marathon runner and religiously adheres to a plant-based diet. What sets him apart is his scientific approach to wellness. He’s constantly staying abreast of the latest research in nutrition and exercise physiology, and he applies this knowledge meticulously to his daily routine.
What I find particularly motivating about James is his unwavering commitment to health, despite the demands of his career. He demonstratesremarkable discipline in waking up at 5 AM for his daily runs and meticulously preparing nutrient-dense meals for the week. His enthusiasm is contagious, and he’s always eager to share his knowledge with colleagues.
James’s influence on my health habits has been transformative. His evidence-based approach has inspired me to delve deeper into understanding the science behind nutrition and exercise. I’ve adopted a more systematic approach to my own health, incorporating regular high-intensity interval training and focusing on a whole food, plant-predominant diet.
Moreover, James has instilled in me the importance of viewing health holistically. He emphasizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being, which has led me to incorporate mindfulness practices into my daily routine. His influence extends beyond just physical health; he’s fostered a culture of wellness in our workplace, initiating lunchtime walking groups and advocating for healthier office snack options.
In essence, James has not only motivated me to stay healthy but has also broadened my perspective on what it means to live a truly healthy life. His dedication and knowledge continue to inspire me to strive for optimal well-being in all aspects of my life.”
Follow-up Questions
-
How has this person’s influence changed your daily routine?
Band 6-7 Answer: “Thanks to their influence, I now exercise more regularly and pay more attention to what I eat. I try to include more vegetables in my meals and have cut down on junk food.”
Band 8-9 Answer: “Their influence has precipitated a significant shift in my daily habits. I’ve adopted a more structured approach to my fitness routine, incorporating both cardiovascular and strength training exercises. Moreover, I’ve become more mindful of my nutritional choices, opting for whole, unprocessed foods and being more conscious of portion sizes. Perhaps most importantly, I’ve learned to prioritize self-care and stress management, which has had a ripple effect on my overall well-being.”
-
Do you think it’s important to have role models for health and fitness?
Band 6-7 Answer: “Yes, I think role models are important because they can inspire us and show us what’s possible. Seeing someone else succeed in staying healthy can motivate us to do the same.”
Band 8-9 Answer: “Absolutely. I believe role models in health and fitness play a crucial role in shaping our perceptions and behaviors. They serve as tangible examples of what can be achieved through dedication and consistency. Moreover, they can demystify the process of adopting healthy habits, making it seem more attainable and less daunting. However, it’s equally important to recognize individual differences and not fall into the trap of comparison. The most effective role models inspire us to become the best version of ourselves, rather than trying to emulate someone else’s journey verbatim.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this part, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
-
How do you think society’s approach to health has changed in recent years?
Band 6-7 Answer: “I think society has become more health-conscious in recent years. People are more aware of the importance of exercise and healthy eating. There’s also more information available about health issues.”
Band 8-9 Answer: “There’s been a paradigm shift in society’s approach to health in recent years. We’ve moved from a reactive model focused primarily on treating illness to a more proactive, preventive approach. There’s a growing emphasis on holistic well-being, encompassing not just physical health, but mental and emotional wellness too. The proliferation of wearable technology and health apps has democratized health information, allowing individuals to take greater control of their health. However, this has also led to challenges, such as information overload and the spread of misinformation. The rise of social media has both positive and negative implications – while it can be a platform for health education, it can also propagate unrealistic body images and fad diets. Overall, I believe we’re moving in a positive direction, but there’s still work to be done in promoting evidence-based health practices and addressing health inequalities.”
-
Do you think governments should play a role in promoting healthy lifestyles?
Band 6-7 Answer: “Yes, I think governments should promote healthy lifestyles. They could run campaigns to educate people about health issues and maybe introduce policies to encourage healthy eating and exercise.”
Band 8-9 Answer: “Absolutely. I believe governments have a vested interest in promoting healthy lifestyles, given the significant economic and social implications of public health. They can play a multifaceted role in this regard. Firstly, through evidence-based public health campaigns that raise awareness and educate the population about healthy habits. Secondly, by implementing policies that create an environment conducive to healthy choices – for instance, regulations on food labeling, taxes on sugary drinks, or urban planning that encourages physical activity. Thirdly, by ensuring access to preventive healthcare services and investing in health education in schools. However, it’s crucial to strike a balance between government intervention and individual freedom. The approach should be to empower individuals with knowledge and opportunities, rather than imposing a paternalistic model. It’s also essential that these initiatives are culturally sensitive and address health inequalities to ensure they benefit all segments of society.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
-
Holistic approach (noun) – /həʊˈlɪstɪk əˈprəʊtʃ/ – considering the whole person, including mental and social factors, rather than just physical symptoms.
Example: “I prefer a holistic approach to health that includes both physical exercise and mental well-being.” -
To strive for (phrasal verb) – /straɪv fɔː/ – to try very hard to achieve something.
Example: “I strive for balance in my diet and exercise routine.” -
Conscientious (adjective) – /ˌkɒnʃiˈenʃəs/ – wishing to do one’s work or duty well and thoroughly.
Example: “She’s very conscientious about her health, always researching the latest nutritional information.” -
To make a point of (idiom) – to do something deliberately or habitually.
Example: “I make a point of taking a brisk walk every morning before work.” -
Sustainable habits (noun phrase) – practices that can be maintained over a long period without negative consequences.
Example: “It’s important to develop sustainable habits rather than following extreme diets.” -
To adopt (verb) – /əˈdɒpt/ – to take on or start to use something new.
Example: “I’ve adopted a new exercise routine that incorporates both cardio and strength training.” -
Nutrient-dense (adjective) – containing a high amount of nutrients relative to calories.
Example: “I try to include nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens and berries in my diet.” -
To prioritize (verb) – /praɪˈɒrətaɪz/ – to give importance to something over other things.
Example: “I prioritize getting enough sleep as part of my health routine.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing health and motivation:
- Use a wide range of vocabulary related to health and fitness. Don’t just stick to basic terms.
- Provide detailed examples and personal experiences to support your points.
- Show your ability to discuss the topic from different perspectives, considering both individual and societal aspects.
- Use a variety of grammatical structures, including complex sentences.
- Speak fluently and coherently, organizing your ideas logically.
- Show your ability to analyze and evaluate ideas, especially in Part 3.
- Practice discussing health-related topics regularly to improve your confidence and fluency.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about health knowledge, but about demonstrating your English language skills effectively. Good luck with your preparation!