Riding a bicycle lowers the BP in patients with essential hypertension

A Cyclathon will be held as part of the 26^th Perfect Health Mela at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium from 18^th to 20^th October.

The Cycle rally with professional cyclists will be flagged off from India Gate at 7am on 19^th October (Saturday) and end at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

The Cyclathon is not a race or competition. The aim is to promote cycling as a means to healthier life and cleaner environment.

After a brief respite, pollution is back. As citizens, it is also our duty to make efforts to check it. Cycling is a green mode of transport; it replaces sitting time (in a car or public transport) with healthy exercise and is also environment-friendly.

Cycling is an aerobic exercise. It is easy, builds stamina and strength, can be paced and reduces stress (anxiety and depression). Hence, it protects against lifestyle diseases such as stroke, heart attack, type 2 diabetes, obesity. Riding a bicycle for 45 minutes lowers the BP by as much as 5-15 mmHg, within 4 weeks, in patients with essential hypertension.

Most importantly, it is a fun way to become physically fit and improve well-being, not just for you, but your whole family.

Dr KK Aggarwal

Padma Shri Awardee

President Confederation of Medical Associations in Asia and Oceania (CMAAO)

Group Editor-in-Chief IJCP Publications

President Heart Care Foundation of India

Past National President IMA