Cómo el ciclismo se está volviendo una actividad recreativa de fitness cada vez más popular en India

The Rise of Cycling in India: A Pandemic-Driven Passion

Summary

The COVID-19 pandemic has catalyzed a remarkable shift in lifestyle choices across India, with cycling emerging as a popular activity. This article explores personal stories of individuals like Kunal Daswani, a Chennai-based photographer, who discovered a newfound love for cycling during the lockdown. It delves into the growing cycling community, its mental and physical health benefits, and offers guidance for beginners interested in joining this cycling revolution.

As the pandemic swept through India, it brought about unprecedented changes in everyday life, forcing people to find new ways to stay active and socially connected. Kunal Daswani, a Chennai-based photographer, found solace and excitement in an unexpected place—cycling. Prior to the lockdown that began in March 2020, Kunal and his friends were regulars at the Presidency Club, engaged in lively conversations and billiard games. As the lockdown closed down social spaces, he was left longing for both physical activity and companionship.

A New Beginning

Faced with the need to adapt, Kunal decided to give his brother’s bicycle a shot. "My brother mentioned it’s a good sport, but he never enjoyed it much. I took it out a couple of times and quickly fell in love with it," he recounts. Cycling was one of the few outdoor activities allowed during the lockdown, and it wasn’t long before his billiard gang transformed into a cycling group, meeting for morning rides.

At 39, Kunal describes cycling as “a lifelong activity that has improved my physical and mental health.” Early morning rides helped him shed extra pounds and optimize his heart rate. Armed with a newfound energy, he felt more creative and even developed new friendships, all while enjoying the less congested roads of Chennai.

A Surge in Popularity

Kunal’s experience is echoed across India, where many have taken up cycling as a form of entertainment and exercise during the pandemic. While exact statistics are hard to come by, industry experts have noted a significant rise in cycling enthusiasts. For instance, data from urban fitness tracking platforms showed a substantial increase in users from July 2019 to July 2021, pointing to a broader trend of cycling gaining popularity.

The demand for bicycles surged, with reports indicating a 20% increase in sales following the pandemic. This rise wasn’t just limited to the casual riders. Premium bicycle brands also saw significant growth. Rohan Kini, founder of a biking accessories brand in Bangalore, shared that sales quadrupled over the past two years. "It’s undeniable that more people are cycling," he states. "In a way, it has been one of the few positive outcomes of the pandemic."

Why Cycling?

Even prior to the pandemic, cycling had a dedicated fan base in India. Arya, a well-known actor, revealed he has been cycling since his school days but began long-distance biking about seven years ago. He’s currently training for the London Edimburgo Challenge, an intense 1,500 km endurance test set for August. Arya sees cycling as a form of mediation. "When you’re on a long ride, you’re alone with your thoughts. It gives you a chance to reflect on life," he explains.

Psychologist Bhagyashree Sawant echoes these sentiments. Now a sports health professional, she believes cycling is key to happiness. "Starting my day with cycling significantly boosts my mood," she shares. Two years ago, she even set a Guinness World Record for the longest bike ride within a country, covering 19,400 km while promoting awareness about health in various states.

The Cause Beyond Riding

Cycling also fosters a sense of community and responsibility. Vijay Malhotra, a Mumbai cyclist, shared his experience participating in philanthropic rides, highlighting how cyclists often unite for social causes. "Recently, we partnered with visually impaired individuals for a philanthropic cycling event," he mentioned.

In Bangalore, innovations like a cycling relief initiative during the pandemic saw cyclists delivering essential goods to those in need. Cycling has become more than a pastime; it’s now a movement towards societal betterment.

Tips for Beginners

As cycling becomes mainstream, knowing how to get started is crucial for newcomers. Quality bicycles are readily available now, catering to various budgets, from affordable models under ₹5,000 to high-end bikes costing over ₹5 lakh. Rohan advises beginners to spend wisely on essential gear, including:

Helmet: A necessity for safety, even at slower speeds.
Lights: Front and rear lights are crucial for visibility, especially during low light conditions.
Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is vital, so invest in a good water bottle and holder.
Pump: A reliable bike pump helps keep tires well-inflated, enhancing performance.
Cycling Computer: A basic model can track speed and distance, aiding in performance insights.

Choosing the right bicycle is equally important, with options categorized as mountain bikes, road bikes, and hybrids. Personalized advice can help prevent injuries and enhance the cycling experience.

The Bigger Picture

Cycling represents not just a means of transportation but a sustainable solution to urban congestion and pollution in India. Statistics reveal that a significant percentage of both rural and urban families own bicycles, indicating strong intrinsic ties to this form of travel. By facilitating this shift towards cycling, organizations are striving for a healthier and more eco-friendly India.

Despite efforts to promote cycling infrastructure, many cyclists still face challenges posed by inadequate facilities. Kunal expressed concerns about safety while navigating heavy traffic but remains committed to cycling when possible.

As the cycling community continues to grow in India, it’s exciting to see how this revival fosters not just personal health, but also societal change. Cycling offers a path to not just physical well-being, but also a cohesive, connected future. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned cyclist, there’s room for you on the open road. Grab your bike, hit the trails, and embrace the joy of cycling!