IELTS Speaking Part 1 — Hobbies (Band 7+ Sample Answers)
Hobbies is one of the most-asked Speaking Part 1 topics because it tests three band descriptors at once — vocabulary range, present-tense fluency, and specificity. Four sample answers show the Band-7 register and what lexis to swap in.
What Examiners Want
Answer in 2–3 sentences with one specific detail (when you started, how often, what you like). Use phrasal verbs naturally: "take up", "get into", "be hooked on". Never memorise — examiners detect rehearsed answers and drop your Fluency & Coherence band.
Sample Q&A: "Do you have any hobbies?"
"Yes, I'm really into trail running. I started about three years ago when I was looking for something to clear my head after work, and now I head out four or five times a week, usually before sunrise."
Vocabulary Lifts (Band 6 to Band 7)
"I like running" becomes "I'm really into trail running". "I started a few years ago" becomes "I took it up about three years ago". "I do it every week" becomes "I head out four or five times a week". "It's good for my health" becomes "It clears my head after work".
Common Follow-Ups
How did you first get interested in this hobby? How much time do you spend on it each week? Do you usually do it alone or with other people? Are hobbies popular among young people in your country? Do you think hobbies need to be expensive?
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