At The Gym

Lesson Description

What is this lesson about?

This free gym vocabulary ESL lesson plan is designed for intermediate learners (B1–B2) who want to talk confidently about fitness, exercise routines, and gym culture.
Students learn the names of common equipment, essential exercises, and phrasal verbs such as work out, bulk up, tone up, warm down, build up, and give up.
The lesson connects physical health with mental wellbeing, encouraging learners to discuss motivation, balance, and lifestyle habits in natural English.

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How do students learn the new language?

Learners progress through a structured, interactive sequence:

• Engaging warm-up discussion on motivation and fitness habits.

• Matching gym equipment and exercise vocabulary with visuals.

• Phrasal verbs for fitness applied through open speaking prompts and a dialogue.

• Role-play and real-life scenarios about training goals and gym routines.

• Mindset activities and reflection tasks linking exercise to wellbeing and confidence.

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Why is this lesson useful?

By the end of the session, students can:

• Use practical gym vocabulary accurately and confidently.

• Apply fitness-related phrasal verbs in conversation.

• Discuss training routines, motivation, and exercise habits fluently.

• Reflect on how physical activity supports mental health and balance.
   

Who is it for?

This gym vocabulary ESL lesson plan goes beyond language drills. It builds confidence, motivation, and wellbeing awareness through realistic conversation.
With accessible vocabulary, relatable tasks, and holistic discussion, it’s perfect for teachers who value real-life English with a healthy twist.

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After some advice on exercise and movement? Read our Exercise & Physical Health blog post, which includes some quick movement tips for busy teachers.

Updated: 17/10/2025