When it comes to the IELTS Speaking test, being able to articulate your thoughts on personal interests is crucial. One common topic that often appears is describing a favorite sport and its benefits. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, helping you achieve a higher band score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about sports. Here are a few examples:

1. Do you like sports?
2. What’s your favorite sport?
3. How often do you play sports?
4. Did you play any sports as a child?

Let’s focus on answering the second question: “What’s your favorite sport?”

Sample answer (Band 7-8):

“My favorite sport is swimming. I find it incredibly refreshing and invigorating. It’s a full-body workout that doesn’t put too much strain on my joints, which I really appreciate. Plus, there’s something serene about being in the water that helps me clear my mind and reduce stress.”

Describe a sportsperson or athlete you admire for their dedication and achievements in your favorite sport. This can provide additional context and demonstrate your knowledge about the sport.

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:

Describe your favorite sport and how it benefits you
You should say:

• What the sport is
• How often you play it
• Why you enjoy it
• And explain how it benefits you physically and mentally

A person swimming in a pool

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to talk about my favorite sport, which is swimming. It’s an activity I absolutely adore and try to engage in at least three times a week.

Swimming has been a part of my life since childhood. I was fortunate enough to have a local pool nearby, and my parents enrolled me in lessons early on. As I grew older, my passion for the sport only intensified.

What I enjoy most about swimming is its versatility. It’s not just about moving from one end of the pool to the other; there are various strokes to master, each offering a unique challenge. The freestyle, breaststroke, butterfly, and backstroke all require different techniques and engage different muscle groups.

The benefits of swimming are multifaceted. Physically, it’s an exceptional full-body workout. It improves cardiovascular health, builds endurance, and tones muscles without putting excessive stress on the joints. This low-impact nature makes it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.

Mentally, swimming is incredibly therapeutic. The rhythmic nature of the strokes and the sensation of being enveloped by water create a meditative state. It’s my go-to activity for stress relief and mental clarity. After a swim, I often find that I can tackle problems more effectively and think more creatively.

Moreover, swimming has taught me valuable life lessons. It’s instilled discipline, as consistent practice is key to improvement. It’s also fostered perseverance – there are days when I might not feel like going to the pool, but I push through, knowing the benefits that await.

In conclusion, swimming is more than just a sport to me. It’s a holistic activity that nourishes my body and mind, providing a perfect balance of physical exertion and mental relaxation. The sense of accomplishment I feel after each session is unparalleled, making it an integral part of my lifestyle.”

Follow-up questions:

1. How has swimming impacted your overall fitness level?
2. Can you describe any challenges you’ve faced while learning to swim?

Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):

“Swimming has had a profound impact on my overall fitness level. Since I started swimming regularly, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my cardiovascular endurance. I can now engage in other physical activities for longer periods without feeling fatigued. Additionally, my muscle tone has improved, particularly in my shoulders, back, and core. What’s particularly impressive is how swimming has enhanced my flexibility and posture. The full range of motion required in various strokes has made me more limber, and the need to maintain proper form in the water has translated to better posture on land. Moreover, swimming has boosted my metabolism, helping me maintain a healthy weight more easily. It’s truly a comprehensive form of exercise that has elevated my fitness in ways I hadn’t anticipated.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this part, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to sports. Here are some examples:

1. How do you think sports contribute to society?
2. What role do you think technology plays in modern sports?
3. Do you believe professional athletes are overpaid? Why or why not?

Let’s focus on the first question: “How do you think sports contribute to society?”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“Sports play a pivotal role in society, contributing in numerous meaningful ways. Firstly, they promote physical health and well-being on a large scale. In an era where sedentary lifestyles are increasingly common, sports provide a crucial outlet for physical activity, helping to combat issues like obesity and related health problems.

Moreover, sports serve as a powerful unifying force. They bring people together, transcending cultural, social, and economic barriers. Major sporting events like the Olympics or World Cup foster a sense of national pride and global community.

From an educational perspective, sports teach valuable life skills. They instill discipline, teamwork, leadership, and the ability to handle both victory and defeat gracefully. These skills are transferable to many aspects of life, including the professional world.

Sports also have a significant economic impact. They create jobs, boost tourism, and can be a major source of revenue for cities and countries hosting large events.

Lastly, sports often serve as a platform for social change. Athletes can use their influence to raise awareness about important issues and inspire positive action in society.

In essence, sports are not just about entertainment or competition; they’re a multifaceted phenomenon that enriches society in numerous ways, from improving public health to fostering social cohesion and driving economic growth.”

Diverse crowd cheering at a sports event

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Invigorating /ɪnˈvɪɡəreɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Making one feel strong, healthy, and full of energy.
   Example: “The invigorating effect of swimming in cold water wakes me up better than coffee.”

2. Versatility /ˌvɜːrsəˈtɪləti/ (noun): The ability to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities.
   Example: “The versatility of swimming makes it an excellent choice for overall fitness.”

3. Multifaceted /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ (adjective): Having many different aspects or features.
   Example: “Swimming offers multifaceted benefits, improving both physical and mental health.”

4. Therapeutic /ˌθerəˈpjuːtɪk/ (adjective): Having a good effect on the body or mind; contributing to a sense of well-being.
   Example: “The therapeutic nature of swimming helps me unwind after a stressful day.”

5. Holistic /hoʊˈlɪstɪk/ (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: “Swimming provides a holistic approach to fitness, benefiting both body and mind.”

Describe a hobby you had as a child that might have influenced your current interest in sports. This can demonstrate how your passion for sports has evolved over time.

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing your favorite sport:

1. Use a wide range of vocabulary related to sports and fitness. Don’t just stick to basic terms.

2. Elaborate on your answers. Provide specific examples and personal experiences to support your points.

3. Use idiomatic expressions where appropriate. This demonstrates a higher level of English proficiency.

4. Maintain fluency by practicing speaking about your favorite sport beforehand. This will help you avoid long pauses or repetition.

5. Show enthusiasm in your voice when talking about your favorite sport. This engagement can positively impact your score.

6. Connect your ideas logically. Use transition words to move smoothly between different aspects of the sport and its benefits.

7. Be prepared to discuss broader topics related to sports, such as their impact on society or current issues in professional sports.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Practice regularly, speak confidently, and showcase your language skills through varied vocabulary and complex sentence structures.

IELTS speaking practice session

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss your favorite sport and its benefits in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!