B2 – Upper Intermediate
Malta has seen a rise in youth obesity and inactivity rates over the past years.
As part of a government-backed push for a fitter generation, starting 2026, young people ages 16-21 can avail of a free 6-month gym membership. No catch, no lottery.
The objective is not only to promote fitness among the youths, but to start building the habit among youngsters from a very young age.
In the long run, this won’t just be another policy, but a means of prevention against future national health crisis.
Read the article about Malta’s national health initiative.
https://timesofmalta.com/article/free-gym-membership-young-people-officially-launched.1109164
Vocabulary Questions:
- What is a “gym enthusiast”? “Abela, a gym enthusiast himself, said around 12,000 young people can benefit from the initiative, in which the government will be investing €2 million.” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym.
- What does “to seize an opportunity” mean? “Abela encouraged eligible youngsters to seize this opportunity.” Use the expression in a sentence. Give a synonym.
- What does “to echo someone’s sentiments” mean? “Sports Minister Clifton Grima echoed Abela’s sentiments, saying the measure demonstrates how investing in sport and youth can unite the community around a healthy and positive lifestyle.” Use the idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym.
Discussion Questions:
- What do you think about Malta’s free gym membership for people ages 16-21?
- Should other countries consider adopting the same initiative? Why or why not?
- What could be the impacts of this initiative in the citizens’ heath and wellness long term?
- Share your insights about this: We want to bring about a change in mentality – in how we view physical activity from an early age.
- How does the government in your own country encourage and support physical activity as part of the citizens’ lifestyle? What health and fitness programs do you have in your country?