Indians choose cycling over gyms and sports arenas during the COVID-19 pandemic

Following the outbreak of COVID-19, it has been seen that Indians have been preferring bicycling over going to gyms to maintain their fitness regime. India’s total cycling market size in 2018 was USD 2,047 Mn, and it grew at a CAGR of 9.1 percent in the period 2012-2018. India is already one of the largest bicycle markets and sells nearly 20 million bicycles every year, however it's still behind USA, Europe and China.

Cycling has increased with increasing disposable income, awareness about environmental impact, aspirations, and of course COVID-19. The pandemic has rejigged the cycling trend worldwide. As per a report by Expert Market Research, the global bicycle market, which attained a value of USD 54 billion in 2019, is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.2 percent in the forecast period of 2020-2025 to reach a value of USD 68 billion by 2025.

Such a steady rise in cycling has been caused by the growing inclination towards both personal fitness and personal mobility. With restrictions on movement and access to gyms or sports arenas, people have taken up cycling as an alternate way of exercising. Besides, the norms resulted due to social distancing and protection against the virus have further led to the use of personal modes of transportation, and cycles are coming up as a preferred choice.

People from across different age groups have adopted cycling, and with the growing demand, which manufacturers are finding it difficult to meet. Rising consciousness over environmental impact is also leadin g to the adoption of cycling. We see, Indian cities are being ranked high in the list of most polluted cities consistently, it is every individual’s responsibility to make that lifestyle choice that will impact our overall climate. Recently, the Supreme Court also issued an advisory that encourages everyone to start using bicycles in the wake of increasing pollution in our capital city.

There is also a strong awareness and a conscious choice to invest in one’s health. COVID-19 has further brought out the need to build a stronger immune system and eliminate our sedentary and digital lifestyles.

Studies show 87 percent of the children spend too much time on screens, out of which 30 percent are staring at screens for more than six hours daily. The lazy lifestyle is also adding to health problems - obesity. Report (NCBI) suggests - the prevalence of overweight will more than double among Indian adults aged 20–69 years between 2010 and 2040, while the prevalence of obesity will triple. This is putting future working generations at risk. There is a pressing need for the adoption of an active lifestyle. As an activity, cycling holds tons of benefits. It engages multiple body muscles and gives you the power to increase or decrease the intensity of the workout. It improves immunity, mobility, and cuts the risk of heart diseases and cancer. It is also a great way to maintain your mental well-being.

Also read: 17-yr-old Nasik boy bicycles Srinagar to Kanyakumari in 8 days, breaks record