IELTS/ PTE/TOEFL Writing Tasks, The Essay
Writing Task 2, Essay
Some people think that physical strength is important for success in sports, while other people think that mental strength is more important.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
The Essay:
People’s opinion on whether physical or mental strength is more vital for being successful in the arena of sports, is bifurcated. Without doubt both are essential for being victorious in a sporting career.
Advocates of the opinion that physical strength is supreme for attaining glory in sports, argue that sans power of the physical body, attainment of victory is difficult. They contend that it is only with bodily stamina, players can endure the stress of long matches till the end. It is true that many competitions like tennis, cricket, football and others, continue for over three hours or more at a stretch
However, despite great muscular and bone strength, a sportsperson cannot withstand the myriad challenges, failures and setbacks they often face on and off the field, without mental strength. It is this ability to control the mind and push the body beyond limits, that differentiates average players from champions. To cite an example, Arunima Sinha, the first handicapped women to scale Mount Everest, was able to do so primarily owing to her mental strength that allowed her to build physically.
Furthermore, during critical moments of high tension in the decisive moments of a game, when the brightest players are competing, those with lesser mental abilities can buckle under pressure. The capability to think and compete coolly even as the pressure of winning is mounting, can catapult even a physically weaker opponent to success. Besides, sporting prowess can be acquired with mind power.
To conclude, while physical strength does play a role in winning in sports, according to me, mental strength is by far more significant, since it can inspire a player to exert, excel and execute moves calmly during games.