Writing Feedback / IELTS Writing task 2. Mental or physical strength in sports? [2]

Some people think that mental strength is the most important factor for success in sports. However, some others believe that it is more important to have strong and fit people. Discuss both views and give your opinions.

It is often said that emotional health is the key factor for a successful athlete. However, many, including myself, argue that the physical condition of a person is far more necessary in sports.

On the one hand, it is undoubted that without a strong and healthy mind, it is extremely difficult for people to compete with others in sports. Audiences usually expect a victory from their favourite clubs, therefore, sportspeople are often put under a huge amount of pressure when they play for their national or provincial teams. If players cannot bear the pressure which viewers place on them, the possibility is that their minds will have a detrimental effect on their performance or even their life after the match. For example, many players have attempted to commit suicide after being criticised by their supporters.

On the other hand, my view is that sports are where athletes show how strong and fit they are. The purpose of sports is getting in shape and active, people should always aim for that outcome when doing sports. If the importance of physical strength is underestimated and people spend more time praciting their mental system, sports would then be seen as an activity to promote sedentary lifestyles, which society obviously do not want. In addition, audicences enjoy wathcing sports which are physically demanding and challenging, such as running or footbal. In these games, winning is nearly impossible and serious injuries could easily occur if players do not have a good physical condition, even those professional ones.

In conclusion, mental fitness plays a vital role in sports. Nevertheless, I strongly believe that it is the physical health that brings victories and a successful career for sportspeople due to the fact that sports should encourage active lifestyles and they are physically competitive.

Any comments would be highly appreciated!