‘24 km everyday’: Nargis Fakhri shares her cycling routine and fitness mantra

Actress Nargis Fakhri has adopted daily cycling as part of her fitness regimen, posting on Instagram that she cycles 24 kilometers each day. She emphasizes that this discipline is a result of a consistent and dedicated mindset. Dr Vajjala Shravani, a cardiovascular specialist and Pilates instructor, praises cycling for its low-impact, accessible nature and numerous health benefits.

She notes that cycling reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases by improving heart function, lowering blood pressure, and improving lipid profiles. Consistent cycling also enhances aerobic capacity, endurance, and stamina, enabling individuals to engage in longer periods of physical activity without fatigue. The exercise builds cardiovascular and muscular endurance, leading to substantial improvements over time.

Cycling is a full-body workout that targets lower body muscles such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves, while also engaging core muscles for balance and stability. Regular cycling supports joint flexibility, particularly in the knees, hips, and ankles, and stretching before and after sessions can further enhance flexibility and prevent stiffness.

Additionally, cycling daily offers mental health benefits by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression through the release of endorphins and serotonin, natural mood enhancers. Outdoor cycling also provides exposure to sunlight, which helps regulate circadian rhythms and improve sleep quality. While cycling is generally low-impact, Dr Shravani advises proper bike fitting, maintaining correct posture, and gradually increasing intensity and duration to avoid injuries like knee pain, lower back pain, or tendinitis.

She stresses the importance of wearing helmets, using reflective clothing or lights, following traffic rules, and staying alert to prevent accidents.