[Culture ★★]
Exercise in Hanoi
(P1) Well, that’s one way to stay in shape! These market vendors in Hanoi have decided to, because they can’t afford the gym and don’t have time to exercise, to take matters into their own hands and feet, and dance themselves fit at work.
(P2) Some say they are too tired or have too little money to work out traditionally, so they bought a speaker so everyone can join in and learn from each other. Even the customers have a go.
(P)3) Vietnam’s capital is known for its unique exercise culture – even in the early hours, every inch of the park and pavements are taken up by people from all walks of life partaking in their exercise of choice. From classic running and yoga to more creative routines using benches and trees as workout props and shouting out loud to help with breathing.
(P4) These savvy market vendors have proven there really is no excuse not to get your body moving.
WORDS: 156
SOURCE: http://www.newsinlevels.com/products/exercise-in-hanoi-level-3/
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
If you found the passage difficult to read or had problems understanding specific words or idiomatic expressions, please discuss them with your tutor. The following discussion questions should be answered in your own words and with your own arguments.
- Briefly, summarize the content of the article in your own words.
- Are people exercising more or less in your country?
- Do you like to exercise? If yes, which types of exercises do you like?
- Why do people exercise?
- Does your government promote exercising?
EXPRESSIONS & PHRASES:
What do the following expressions mean?
- Stay in shape (P1)
- Take matters into one’s hands (P1)
- people from all walks of life (P3)
Image Source: By longtrekhome – Falun Dafa the fifth exercise, meditation, CC BY 2.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=4271278