Some people think that physical strength is important for success in sport, while other people think that mental strength is more important. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

In order to achieve success in
sport
, some people argue that it is more important to be strong mentally than physically. While no sportsperson can reach the top without the mental qualities of determination and dedication, I believe that the basis for success must be physical
strength
. On the one hand, all sports trainers recognise the necessity of a strong mental attitude.
Firstly
, if trainers cannot foster a competitive spirit, or even a
win-at-all costs
Add a hyphen
win-at-all-costs
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attitude, the sportspeople whom they train may lack the necessary motivation to work hard and succeed. Hours spent training in the gym,
for example
, maybe repetitive and boring, and aspiring athletes need to stay focused.
Secondly
, in any
sport
Add a comma
,
show examples
there will be disappointments and failures, and it is essential to be mentally strong to overcome these and achieve one’s goals.
In particular
, in the world of professional
sport
, where news coverage places too much value on
sport
, it is impossible to have a laid-back attitude and still succeed.
On the other hand
, physical
strength
must be the basis of all success in
sport
. While most people take up
sport
simply to get into shape or to keep fit, those who wish to become successful must be physically strong. Obvious examples are sports
such
as weightlifting, boxing or judo. Yet all other sports
also
demand physical
strength
for stamina and endurance, even sailing or horse-riding. Some sports stars,
such
as the world-famous professional cyclist Lance Armstrong, have even used illegal substances, like performance-enhancing drugs, in order to reach and maintain top physical condition, risking their careers. In conclusion, both physical and mental
strength
are necessary to become successful in
sport
, but it is impossible to succeed without being physically strong.
Submitted by rodreyesm on

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Topic Vocabulary:
  • physical conditioning
  • athleticism
  • physical training
  • muscle strength
  • mental resilience
  • psychological preparedness
  • mental toughness
  • confidence
  • precision
  • focus
  • mental strategies
  • mental fortitude
  • brute strength
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