Regular exercise plays a vital role in maintaining physical health and has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Analysis of past IELTS tests shows this theme appearing approximately 15-20% of the time, particularly in questions about public health, lifestyle changes, and government policies. As highlighted in The importance of physical fitness in maintaining health, this topic’s relevance continues to grow with global health concerns.
Task Analysis and Sample Question
Based on recent examination patterns, here’s a frequently encountered question type:
Some people believe that governments should make exercise mandatory in schools and workplaces to improve public health. Others think individuals should be free to choose whether to exercise or not. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Question Analysis
- Topic: Government intervention in exercise
- Task: Discussion + Opinion
- Key points to address:
- Mandatory exercise programs
- Individual freedom of choice
- Public health implications
- Implementation feasibility
Government mandated exercise programs in schools and workplaces promote better public health
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate over whether governments should enforce mandatory exercise in educational and professional settings has garnered significant attention. While some advocate for compulsory physical activity programs, others emphasize personal autonomy in health choices. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting a balanced view.
Proponents of mandatory exercise programs argue that such initiatives would significantly improve public health outcomes. Research consistently demonstrates that regular physical activity reduces the risk of chronic diseases, enhances mental well-being, and increases productivity. In schools, as discussed in importance of physical education in combating childhood obesity, structured exercise programs can establish lifelong healthy habits and combat the growing obesity epidemic. Similarly, workplace exercise initiatives could help counteract the detrimental effects of sedentary office work.
However, opponents contend that forcing individuals to exercise infringes upon personal freedom and autonomy. They argue that health decisions should remain personal choices, not government mandates. Moreover, implementing mandatory programs could face practical challenges, including time constraints, facility limitations, and varying individual physical capabilities. This perspective emphasizes that sustainable health improvements come from personal motivation rather than external enforcement.
In my opinion, while exercise is undoubtedly beneficial, a balanced approach combining encouragement with choice would be more effective than strict mandates. Governments should focus on creating supportive environments and incentives for physical activity, as explored in Physical education and sports in schools, while respecting individual circumstances and preferences. This could include providing accessible facilities, organizing voluntary fitness programs, and educating people about exercise benefits.
In conclusion, rather than imposing mandatory exercise, authorities should implement comprehensive strategies that encourage and facilitate physical activity while preserving individual choice. This approach would likely yield better long-term results in improving public health.
Corporate wellness programs featuring group exercise sessions improve employee health
Band 8.5 Analysis
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with coherent arguments
- Balanced discussion with well-supported points
- Effective use of topic-specific examples
- Natural integration of academic language
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Exercise is important for health, and some people think governments should make it compulsory in schools and workplaces. Other people believe we should choose for ourselves. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Making exercise mandatory has some benefits. When people exercise regularly, they become healthier and stronger. In schools, students can learn about staying fit and develop good habits. At work, exercise can help workers feel less stressed and work better. The government wants people to be healthy because it reduces healthcare costs.
On the other hand, forcing people to exercise might not be good. Some people are too busy or don’t like exercising. It’s difficult to make everyone exercise because people have different schedules and abilities. Also, some workplaces don’t have space or equipment for exercise programs.
I think governments should encourage exercise but not force it. They can build parks and sports facilities, make exercise programs available, and teach people about health benefits. This way, people can choose what works best for them while still being supported to be more active.
In conclusion, while exercise is good for health, making it mandatory isn’t the best solution. Governments should focus on encouraging and supporting people to exercise rather than forcing them.
Band 6.5 Analysis
- Simple but clear structure
- Basic vocabulary with some repetition
- Limited range of complex sentences
- Adequate task response but lacks depth
- Basic cohesive devices
Key Vocabulary
- mandatory (adj.) /ˈmændətɔːri/ – required by law
- sedentary (adj.) /ˈsedəntri/ – characterized by much sitting
- autonomy (n.) /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – freedom to determine one’s own actions
- incentives (n.) /ɪnˈsentɪvz/ – something that motivates or encourages
- comprehensive (adj.) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – complete; including all aspects
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments. Consider also exploring related topics like impact of urban design on mental health for additional perspective on public health initiatives.
