Community Post – Cycling 24×7
On the Occasion of World bicycle day – The Checkup magazine connected with some leading doctors who are experts in their fields but are also professional cyclists.
Discovering the Joy of Cycling: A Journey of Self-Reflection
Engaging in team sports was never my forte, as my athletic abilities left much to be desired. However, there was an inexplicable allure that drew me towards cycling—a tantalizing vision of pure pleasure. During my days as a university student, I acquired my very own bicycle, which has since become an unwavering companion in my life’s endeavors. As I grew accustomed to the rhythm of pedaling, I found myself yearning to conquer longer distances and attain greater speeds. Yet, it was never about achieving milestones; rather, it was the sheer delight of the ride that fueled my passion.
With time, my cycling journey transcended the realm of mere physical activity, assuming a philosophical dimension that intertwined seamlessly with real-life experiences. I came to realize that a seemingly simple notion held profound wisdom: true progress is only possible when we find joy in the journey itself. It became a mantra I carried with me, a reminder that embracing the present moment and savoring the ride are the keys to covering great distances, both on and off the saddle.
Today, I am an avid trekker, an experienced marathon runner, a nutrition freak and I think my fitness journey all began with cycling. It’s my dream to participate in the Iron Man challenge, where for the first time I cycled as part of a competitive sport.
Dr. Ankit Solanki is BDS, MDS – Periodontist and Implantologist at Holistic Dental Care and Implantology Clinic, Andheri
Cycle to health – an easy and fun way to fitness
I took to cycling in November 2020 during the covid lockdown. My usual morning routine included a 6 km walk or 1 km swim. However as both of these were curtailed during the covid pandemic, I bought a cycle to resume my fitness regime.
Day1, I was completely tired cycling a distance of 5 km. With persistence and perseverance, I gradually increased my stamina to do 30 kms. I would also cycle uphill to Pedder Road and hanging garden with a better understanding of how to use cycle gears.
At 63 years,with better stamina and fitness, I ride 30-40 kms daily with my SoBo Riders (south bombay cyclists). Its an energizing start to my day before I head to the operation theatre or hospital rounds.
My first cycling adventure trip was Mumbai to Goa along the coastal route (580 kms in 7 days) in January 2021. Not only the long distances, but cycling on the national roads with heavy vehicular traffic was new to me, but I completed the task perfectly. January 2022 did my Goa-Ooty cycling trip which was more difficult both in terms of distance (700 kms) and uphill climbs. Except the last day of the steep climb, I finished the route well.
Daily cycling of 25-30 kms and Sunday long cycling trips (70-100kms) around Mumbai allowed me to discover the city and explore areas which I had never dreamt of going. Forts in Mahim, Bandra, Sion, Alibag and Revdanda were ideal to explore on the cycle. As were the beaches of Uran , Gorai and Mandwa. The wada pav and misal , tea and Mani’s coffee at these places were an added bonus. During this time I also did the South Mumbai heritage cycling trip which showcases the art deco buildings and the history of Mumbai (Bombay).
Encouraged by my own good fitness and confidence in cycling long distances, recently I did the Seoul-Busan challenge (630 kms) in 6 days in South Korea. Korea is a very cycle friendly country with dedicated cycling paths all over the country. The Seoul Busan route is along the Han and Nakdong river with cycling paths amidst awesome scenery. The cool weather in May adds to the enjoyment. We had 12 participants from 8 countries (USA, Canada, Russia, France, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines and India). The route is very picturesque; along the riverfront passing through small towns and villages along the river front. This gives access to areas one can never imagine as a tourist. The vehicular traffic is on different roads, as are pedestrians who walk on separate tracks alongside the cycling paths. Local cafés and Korean cuisine from different towns adds to the overall experience. Koreans are very friendly people and most would go out of their way to help if one needs assistance. Google translate comes to the rescue if the locals in towns and villages don’t understand English. I hope our government takes a cue from the Koreans and create cycling paths for safer cycling in our country.
I am back to my daily cycling in the city in the early hours of the morning to beat the city traffic. My next challenge is cycling in Sri Lanka next year. It’s a different terrain with paddy fields, beaches and mountains. Hopefully I succeed in my pursuit to remain fit and complete the journey.
Dr Pranay R.Shah is MD; DGO , Obstetrician, Gynecologist, Fertility Specialist and Endoscopic Surgeon at Bhatia, Jaslok, HN Reliance,Saifee, and Wadia Hospitals, Mumbai
Midnight Cycling & Story telling
I started my midnight cycling journey around 5 years back. Exploring city and its heritage at night was a high that got me hooked. The city is completely different at night and the roads are relatively empty. It’s the best time to get your bicycle out and enjoy the cool breeze that this city’s nights offer. I wanted to share this beautiful and unique experience of exploring Mumbai on a bicycle with others as well, and we thus started are midnight cycling and storytelling tours taking people to various locations of historical importance in Mumbai and telling them stories of its past. I am happy to say that I have introduced around 7000 people over the past 5 years to the joy of midnight cycling and exploring the beautiful city at night.
Priyank Deshmukh
“Cycling a life skill “
Life is like riding a bicycle to keep your balance, you must keep moving. You need a balance in your life ,same is true with Cycle .
Why Cycle ??
If a person wants to start a fitness regimen, cycling is the easiest and even over size person can do it without putting too much load on knees and ankle joints.
What are the organs protected by cycle??
Heart , (cycling is a cardio activity),Brain ( You need hand, feet , eye coordination), Joints ( by strengthening muscles), core muscle strengthening etc.
Is cycling related with happiness index??
Country with highest happiness index having more cycles than any other vehicle.
What about environment??
Cyclists are true environmentalists; they are not using fossil fuel so protracting our mother earth.I am into cycling for last 20 years. I am in love with long distance cycling. I am a super randonneur, twice in a calendar year.(200, 300, 400,600 kms in given time frame). I would recommend a good cycle may be hybrid or road bike with all safety gears like helmet, lights, reflective jackets, gloves etc.
So start cycling today!!
Sangram Singh is a Senior Pediatric Surgeon and Pediatric Urologist at Kibs Hospital
Life cycle
On a recent office visit to Calicut, the Checkup team had a morning free of any official work. So after breakfast, we decided to explore a park nearby. And as we were walking into to park- our eyes fell on some ‘bicycles for hire’. The instant urge to pick up a bike and pedal was irresistible.
None of us had had the occasion to ride a bicycle for several years. (Not surprising, considering that we all lived in Mumbai city.) So this impromptu short cycling escapade, in the charming city of Calicut – was not just fun, but was truly rejuvenating. Looking forward to many such rejuvenating life cycles.
Dr. Santosh Karmarkar – A senior Pediatric Surgeon & Consultant at Lilavati Hospital Mumbai and Chief Editor Of The Checkup web magazine.