5. Paraphrase the sentences using the synonyms from the box instead of the underlined words.

go in for sports spectators amateur workout helps fond of take part in sportsmen tournaments country

1. In Russia a lot of people do sports.

2. Doing sports prevents us from getting too fat and aids to stay healthy

3. A great number of world records have been set by Russian athletes.

4. Many people try to find time to go to a swimming pool or a gym at least once a week for aerobics or yoga classes, bodybuilding or training session on a treadmill.

5. Some people are keen on extreme sports such as rock climbing, potholing or white-water rafting.

6. Sports in Russia have traditionally been divided into non–professional and professional.

7. Many sporting societies and clubs participate in different international competitions.

8. Sportsmen represent their nation and provide a role model for healthy lifestyle.

9. But despite the increase in the number of people participating in sports, the majority of them still prefer to be viewers.

6. Complete the following sentences inserting the proper prepositions.

1. A lot of Russian people go __ for sports.

2. Regular physical activity prevents us ____ excessive weight.

3. Many young people are fond _____ extreme sports.

4. Sports have traditionally been divided __ amateur and professional.

5. “Physical Education” is a subject __ the curriculum __ schools and universities.

6. Sports facilities are available __ any university or other higher educational establishments.

7. A great number __ Russian sportsmen and sportswomen take part __ different internationals tournaments.

8. Several world records were set __ our sportsmen at 2008 Olympics __ Beijing.

9. Thousands __ sports fans go __ the stadiums to support their favourite teams and sportsmen.

10. Most of the important competitions are telecast and people enjoy watching programmes __ TV.

7. Complete the sentences with the appropriate English words.

1. In Russia a lot of people (занимаются спортом).

2. Doing sports prevents us from getting too fat and helps (оставаться здоровыми).

3. A lot of people try to find time to go to a (бассейн) or a (гимнастический зал) at least once a week.

4. (Физическая культура) is a subject on the curriculum of schools and universities.

5. (Многие виды спорта) are popular in our country.

6. Some people are fond of (экстремальными видами спорта) such as rock climbing, potholing and white-water rafting.

7. Sports in Russia have traditionally been divided into (любительский и профессиональный).

8. Many sportsmen take part in different (международных соревнованиях).

9. A great number of (мировых рекордов) have been set by Russian sportsmen.

10. Our sportsmen (принимают участие в Олимпийских играх) and always (выигрывают) a lot of gold, silver and bronze (медалей).

8. Answer the following questions.

1. Why do people go in for sports?

2. What winter sports are popular in Russia?

3. What summer sports are popular in Russia?

4. What other sports activities are popular in Russia?

5. What is the difference between amateur and professional sports?

6. Why do people go in for professional sport?

7. Do you know any outstanding Russian sportsman/woman?

8. What sports facilities are there at your university?

9. Why is it necessary to have Physical Education at schools and universities?

10. Where can people watch sporting events?

9. Read the text for the specific information and answer the following questions.

1) Why is Russia a sporting country?

2) Why is it important for everybody to do sport?

3) What does the old proverb say about health?

4) What do people do to keep fit?