Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-09-19

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In some countries, more and more people are hiring a personal fitness trainer, rather than playing sports or doing exercise classes. What are the reasons for this? Is this a positive or a negative development?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Student answer (Band 7.0)

In some countries, an increasing number of people are choosing to hire personal fitness trainers instead of participating in sports or attending exercise classes. This trend can be attributed to several factors, and I believe it is generally a positive development, although there are some disadvantages.

There are various reasons why people prefer personal trainers. First of all, personal training provides an individualised fitness programme based on a person's specific goals and physical condition. For example, someone who wants to lose weight can receive a diet and exercise plan designed specifically for them. In contrast, exercise classes usually follow the same routine for everyone. Secondly, many people have busy lifestyles and prefer the flexibility of arranging workouts at a convenient time. A personal trainer can also motivate clients and monitor their progress, which may encourage them to exercise regularly.

This development has several positive effects. The most significant benefit is that people may become more physically active and improve their overall health. A qualified trainer can also teach clients how to perform exercises correctly, reducing the risk of injury. Furthermore, having a professional to provide encouragement and monitor progress can help people remain committed to their fitness goals. This is particularly useful for individuals who struggle to maintain motivation when exercising alone.

However, there are also some drawbacks. Personal training can be expensive, meaning that it may not be affordable for everyone. In addition, people who rely heavily on a trainer may become less confident about exercising independently. Sports and group exercise classes, on the other hand, can be more affordable and provide opportunities for people to socialise and develop teamwork skills.

In conclusion, people are increasingly choosing personal trainers because they offer personalised programmes, flexibility and motivation. Although this trend can be costly and may reduce opportunities for social interaction, I believe it is predominantly positive because it can encourage people to exercise regularly and improve their physical health.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both the reasons why people hire personal fitness trainers and evaluating whether this trend is a positive or negative development. The writer establishes a clear position in the introduction stating that the trend is 'generally a positive development, although there are some disadvantages' and maintains this perspective throughout. Ideas are well developed and extended with relevant explanations and examples, such as comparing individualised fitness programmes to standard exercise classes and highlighting the benefits of professional supervision and motivation. The arguments are balanced, covering both the positive health and safety outcomes as well as the drawbacks like cost and potential over-reliance. Overall, the task is addressed thoroughly and meets the criteria for Band 7.0.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The essay demonstrates clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, beginning with an introductory overview, moving on to the reasons for the trend, exploring the positive effects, addressing the drawbacks, and concluding with a balanced summary. Cohesive devices are used effectively and flexibly to guide the reader, as seen with transition markers like 'First of all', 'Secondly', 'In contrast', 'Furthermore', and 'However'. Paragraphing is used appropriately and sufficiently to separate distinct themes. Although referencing and substitution are managed well, the cohesive framework relies on somewhat standard academic connectors, placing this securely at Band 7.0.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with adequate flexibility and precision to discuss fitness trends. Less common lexical items are employed appropriately, such as 'individualised fitness programme', 'busy lifestyles', 'qualified trainer', and 'independent exercising'. Word choice and collocation are generally accurate throughout the essay. While there are a few minor generalities and vocabulary remains largely standard rather than exceptionally sophisticated—which prevents it from reaching Band 8—the lexical resource is strong, natural, and easily allows the writer to convey precise meanings without any impedance to communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The response displays a good variety of complex sentence structures, including conditional or relative clauses ('someone who wants to lose weight can receive...', 'individuals who struggle to maintain motivation...'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and there is good control of grammar and punctuation throughout. The writer successfully manages modal verbs and subordination. Although minor slips or overly standard structures appear occasionally, the control over complex forms demonstrates solid upper-intermediate proficiency that fits comfortably within the Band 7.0 descriptor.

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