World Bicycle Day: More Malaysians taking up cycling to keep fit amid pandemic

Salina enjoys feeling the sun and fresh air on her face whenever she goes cycling. Photo: Salina Osman

Salina Osman was a newbie cyclist when she purchased her first road bicycle in October, during the movement control order (MCO). But in the last seven months, she's improved her bike handling skills and has gone on to conquer some of the steepest hills around the Klang Valley.

The mother of three has clocked in over a thousand kilometres on her bicycle. It includes a 45km ride from Sg Besar in Sabak Bernam to Teluk Intan, a hilly cycle up Genting Peras in Hulu Langat, as well as Pahang’s Genting Sempah which tests one's riding skills and endurance.

"Before the pandemic, I'd participate in outdoor activities like white water rafting, hiking or waterfall abseiling. My regular exercise regime at the gym took a break, too, especially with rising Covid-19 cases.

"When the MCO was implemented, I had to think of newer exercise methods. With some encouragement from friends, I purchased my first road bike late last year. It's been one of my best decisions towards staying fit and healthy," shared Salina, a director of a pharmaceutical company, during an interview in Kuala Lumpur.

Cycling is one of the most popular activities during the pandemic. Photo: The Star/ Low Lay Phon

Evolution of the bicycle

The United Nations declared June 3 as World Bicycle Day, a special day to acknowledge the versatility and longevity of this two-wheeled steerable machine.

The bicycle is also viewed as a simple and affordable mode of transportation. The best part is it serves to strengthen one's physical and mental health and develop a culture of cycling in society.

Bicycles have undergone many technological advancements over the years. The evolution includes pneumatic tyres (inflatable tyres), tandem bicycles, electric bicycles, and electric gears.

Today's bikes are made from titanium, carbon fibre, and aluminium, offering a springy and more comfortable ride.

These days, many cycling apps and virtual cycling events allow cyclists to keep fit while staying safe amid the pandemic.

Salina says cycling has enabled her to stay in the pink of health while physically distancing herself from others during the pandemic.

"Cycling is fun as I get to exercise in the outdoors. I like having the sun and feeling the fresh air on my face. Cycling is a low-impact exercise which can help to strengthen my leg muscles."

Old is gold: The humble bicycle has seen many technological advancements over the years. - Filepic

Back to riding

Salina isn't the only one who has picked up cycling as a new form of exercise during the pandemic.

Businessman Harry Kok, 62, who hadn't been on a bicycle for over three decades before the MCO, bought a new road bike to keep fit during the pandemic.

The Puchong-based sexagenarian makes it a point to cycle anything between three and five times a week around his neighbourhood in Puchong.

"Years ago, I owned two mountain bicycles, and I used to cycle around the neighbourhood. Over the years, my exercise regime changed – I moved on to golf, working out at the gym and swimming. But during the MCO, almost all activities were forbidden except cycling and jogging.

"With some friends' influence on cycling, I was inspired to buy a new bicycle. These days, bicycles are more advanced in terms of material, make, gear system and variety, ranging from mountain bike, road bike to foldable bike," said Kok, a director at a KL-based medical equipment supply company.

Since gyms are closed during the MCO, Kok (left) and his good friend Soh Lin Soon started cycling to stay fit. Photo: Harry Kok

Going solo

Most of the time, Kok cycles solo as he gets to decide how fast or slow he goes. In between his cycles, he likes to make little pit stops to reconnect with nature.

"One of the best benefits of cycling is I get to spend time outdoors, soak in positive energy and feel revitalised. Cycling helps improve cardiovascular health. I love cycling because it helps build my strength. Plus, it is good for mental health, and strengthens your heart and soul," said the father of two, who also joins friends on group rides around Kuala Lumpur.

Kok thinks cycling is a perfect activity for everyone regardless of age. For those wanting to buy a new bicycle, he advises them to spend time researching and buying one based on their preferences.

"It all depends on your budget. Some people prefer mountain bicycles while others prefer road bicycles or foldable bicycles. Find a bike that suits your personality and budget. Ask a fellow cyclist for recommendations based on your skill level and requirements."

Bicycle shop owner Lim Mee Meow, 38, has seen a 30% increase in business sales throughout the movement control order.

"There is a growing trend for foldable bicycles and road bikes. People especially like foldies because they are portable and easier to transport around."

Foldable bicycles are popular because they are portable. Photo: The Star/Chan Boon Kai