Mira Kapoor, known for her influence in the health and fitness sphere, continues to prioritize her well-being even while on vacation. Recently, during her trip to Copenhagen, Denmark, Mira took to Instagram to share her love for cycling and how it contributes to her fitness routine. Inspired by her dedication, let’s delve into the numerous health benefits of cycling, particularly during vacation.
Cycling, as a mode of transportation, can significantly impact both mental and physical health, according to Dr. Santosh Pandey, a naturopath and acupuncturist at Rejua Energy Center, Mumbai. Not only does it provide an enjoyable way to stay fit, but it also keeps individuals active and helps them avoid traffic-related issues. Additionally, cycling contributes to cleaner air, promoting better lung health due to its lack of air pollution emissions.
Research published in the American Heart Association’s journal Circulation revealed that adults aged 50-65 who regularly cycled for leisure or commute experienced 11-18% fewer heart attacks over a span of 20 years. This highlights the positive impact of cycling on cardiovascular health. Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a neurologist at Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, emphasized that cycling is a beneficial form of aerobic exercise, which is less strenuous on the heart and knees compared to other activities. It also aids in stretching the hamstrings and quadriceps, reducing the risk of knee degeneration and osteoarthritis.
Cycling offers various health-related benefits, including weight management, a decreased risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, and heart attack, as noted by Dr. Kumar. Suvidhi Jain, a lifestyle, exercise, and nutrition coach, highlighted the impact of cycling on endurance and weight management. She mentioned that pedaling through beautiful landscapes strengthens the heart and boosts endurance. It allows individuals to indulge in local cuisine without excessive worry.
In addition to physical fitness, cycling has positive effects on mental well-being. The activity releases endorphins, known as “feel-good hormones,” which reduce stress and enhance overall happiness, as mentioned by Jain. Moreover, choosing cycling as a mode of transportation contributes to eco-friendliness, reducing the environmental impact compared to cars or public transportation. It enables individuals to connect with nature, breathe in fresh air, and fully appreciate the scenic beauty encountered along the way.
While embarking on a cycling adventure, it is crucial to prioritize safety. Jain advised checking local cycling infrastructure, wearing appropriate gear such as helmets, and adhering to traffic rules. By taking necessary precautions, individuals can enjoy a secure and fulfilling cycling journey.
Mira Kapoor’s dedication to cycling on vacation serves as an inspiration for incorporating physical activity into our travel plans. By embracing cycling, we can not only enhance our physical fitness but also uplift our mental well-being and contribute to a healthier and more sustainable world.