As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve encountered countless students grappling with the infamous “keep fit” question in the IELTS Speaking test. It might seem simple, but this question often throws test-takers off guard. Why? Because they’re too focused on finding the “perfect” answer instead of showcasing their English fluency and vocabulary.
This article acts as your personal trainer, equipping you with the knowledge and strategies to tackle this question confidently and effectively. Let’s dive in!
Understanding the “Keep Fit” Question
The examiner isn’t expecting you to be a marathon runner or a gym enthusiast. This question assesses your ability to:
- Use present tenses accurately: Do you incorporate both simple present and present continuous appropriately to describe your routine?
- Expand on your answers: Can you provide details about frequency, duration, and location of your activities?
- Utilize a range of vocabulary: Do you go beyond basic words like “exercise” and demonstrate a wider vocabulary related to fitness and health?
Crafting Your Winning Response
1. Honesty is the Best Policy
Don’t fabricate elaborate workout routines you don’t actually follow. The examiner can spot insincerity from a mile away. Be genuine and talk about activities you genuinely enjoy. This could be anything from:
- Traditional exercise: Going to the gym, running, swimming, cycling
- Recreational activities: Playing sports, dancing, hiking, yoga
- Daily habits: Walking, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, gardening
2. Spice it Up with Vocabulary
Here’s where you showcase your linguistic prowess. Instead of saying “I go for a run,” consider:
- Verbs: I jog, sprint, do laps around the park.
- Adverbs: I run regularly, occasionally, three times a week.
- Phrases: I work up a sweat, clear my head, boost my energy levels.
Remember: It’s not about using the most complex words but rather using them accurately and naturally.
3. Expand and Elaborate
Don’t leave the examiner hanging! Provide details to paint a vivid picture of your fitness routine:
- Frequency: “I usually go jogging twice a week after work.”
- Duration: “I aim for at least 30 minutes of brisk walking every day.”
- Location: “On weekends, I love hiking in the nearby mountains.”
- Benefits: “Swimming helps me relax and de-stress after a long day.”
Sample Answers and Analysis
Let’s analyze some sample responses to illustrate these strategies:
Basic Answer:
“I keep fit by going to the gym.” (Too short, lacks detail)
Improved Answer:
“I usually go to the gym three times a week to maintain my fitness. I enjoy using the treadmill and lifting weights. It helps me stay in shape and feel more energized.” (Good use of vocabulary and expansion)
Excellent Answer:
“To stay in shape, I’ve recently taken up swimming. I go to the local pool twice a week and try to do at least twenty laps. It’s a great way to improve my cardiovascular health and clear my mind after a busy day. Plus, I find it incredibly refreshing.” (Excellent vocabulary, detail, and personal touch)
Top Tips for Success
- Practice makes perfect: Rehearse answering this question using different vocabulary and expanding on your answers.
- Record yourself: This helps identify areas for improvement in pronunciation and fluency.
- Think about your audience: Imagine you’re talking to a friend, not an examiner. Be natural and engaging.
Conclusion
The “keep fit” question is your opportunity to shine in the IELTS Speaking test. By being authentic, utilizing a wide range of vocabulary, and providing engaging details, you can impress the examiner and achieve your desired band score. Good luck!