Hiking is one of the most popular and rewarding outdoor activities. In this exercise, you’ll read about why people enjoy it and practise simple present tense, infinitives, collocations, and correct subject–verb agreement.
3. Why Do People Love Hiking?
Hiking has become one of the most popular outdoor activities in recent years. Whether it's a walk through local hills or a climb up a steep mountain, hiking (1)____________ people of all ages. It's not just about exercise—it’s also about spending time in nature, clearing your mind, and enjoying the fresh air.
One reason hiking is so appealing is that it doesn’t require special skills or expensive equipment. A good pair of shoes and a bottle of water are often (2)____________. You can hike alone, with friends, or even join a hiking group.
In many countries, national parks offer well-marked trails that are safe and easy to follow. These parks often have maps and signs to help visitors stay on the right path. Some trails are designed for beginners, while others (3)____________ a high level of fitness and experience.
Besides physical health, hiking also helps with mental well-being. Spending time outdoors can reduce stress and improve mood. Some studies have even shown that hiking can improve memory and focus, (4)____________ it a great activity for students and workers alike.
As people continue to look for healthier lifestyles and ways to disconnect from screens, hiking is likely to become even more popular. In the future, we may see more urban trails and city parks designed to (5)____________ easy access to nature.
Check answers at the bottom of the page.
1.
(A) protects
(B) attracts
(C) avoids
(D) removes
2.
(A) enough
(B) available
(C) necessary
(D) completed
3.
(A) require
(B) required
(C) requiring
(D) are required
4.
(A) make
(B) making
(C) made
(D) makes
5.
(A) prevent
(B) allow
(C) provide
(D) supply
Grammar Points & Explanations
1. Simple Present Tense
Used in: “hiking attracts people,” “some trails require…”
- Why it's important: Describes facts and regular activities. Great for forming general statements or opinions.
2. Adjectives vs. Other Word Forms
Used in: “necessary”
- Why it's important: Many learners confuse similar-looking words (e.g. necessary vs. necessarily). Knowing when to use adjectives is key for descriptions.
3. Verb Agreement (Plural Subjects)
Used in: “others require”
- Why it's important: Students need to ensure subject-verb agreement. Trails is plural → require (not requires).
4. Participial Phrases (Reduced Clauses)
Used in: “making it a great activity…”
- Why it's important: This is a shortened form of “which makes it a great activity.” Common in formal and academic writing.
5. Infinitive of Purpose
Used in: “designed to provide easy access…”
- Why it's important: Shows why something is done. Helps with expressing purpose, which is essential for writing and speaking clearly.
Correct Answers:
- (B) attracts
"…hiking attracts people of all ages."
- (C) necessary
"…shoes and a bottle of water are often necessary."
- (A) require
"…others require a high level of fitness..."
- (B) making
"…focus, making it a great activity…"
- (C) provide
"…designed to provide easy access to nature."
