IELTS READING PRACTICE- PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

 

"Physical activity is an indispensable component of a healthy lifestyle, playing a pivotal role in promoting overall well-being and preventing a myriad of health issues. This essay will delve into the multifaceted benefits of engaging in regular physical activity, including its impact on physical health, mental well-being, and the prevention of chronic diseases.   Firstly, regular physical activity is paramount for maintaining optimal physical health. Exercise is closely linked to the prevention of various cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes. Engaging in activities that elevate the heart rate and promote cardiovascular endurance helps to strengthen the heart, improve blood circulation, and regulate blood pressure. Additionally, physical activity is instrumental in maintaining a healthy weight, reducing the risk of obesity and related conditions, including diabetes.   Furthermore, the positive effects of physical activity extend beyond the physical realm, encompassing mental well-being. Exercise has been proven to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression by triggering the release of endorphins, the body's natural mood enhancers. Moreover, regular physical activity is associated with improved cognitive function and a reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases, contributing to enhanced mental acuity and longevity.   Another crucial aspect is the prevention of chronic diseases through regular physical activity. Numerous studies have demonstrated the correlation between a sedentary lifestyle and the development of chronic conditions, including certain types of cancer, osteoporosis, and metabolic disorders. Engaging in regular exercise strengthens the immune system, reduces inflammation, and enhances the body's ability to ward off illnesses, contributing significantly to disease prevention.

In addition to physical and mental health benefits, physical activity fosters social connections and promotes a sense of community. Participating in group activities or sports encourages interpersonal relationships, teamwork, and camaraderie, thus fostering a supportive and positive social environment. This communal aspect of physical activity not only enhances the overall experience but also contributes to mental and emotional well-being."

Questions 1-5 Complete the sentences below. Choose ONLY ONE WORD from the passage for each answer. Write your answers in boxes 1-5 on your answer sheet.   Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining the best physical health, preventing ……1……. disorders like heart attacks and strokes, and promoting cardiovascular endurance. It also helps maintain a ……2……. weight, reducing the risk of obesity and related conditions like……3…. By causing the production of……4……., physical activity also improves mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Regular physical activity is associated with improved ……5……. function and a reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases, contributing to enhanced mental acuity and longevity.     Questions 6-10 Do the following statements agree with the information given in Reading Passage 1? In boxes 6-10 on your answer sheet, write TRUE               if the statement agrees with the information FALSE              if the statement contradicts the information NOT GIVEN    if there is no information on this   6. Exercise doesn’t assist in releasing endorphins, the body's natural mood boosters. 7. Frequent physical activity helps people live longer. 8. There is the correlation between a sedentary lifestyle and the development of regular exercise. 9.  Participating in regular exercise improves the immune system.

10. Physical activity damages social connections and discourages interpersonal relationships.