Bicycles and the bay: Nikita Dutta shares how Mumbai’s new coastal track finally gives cyclists their dream escape

Actress and fitness enthusiast Nikita Dutta recently took a spin along Mumbai’s new cycling marvel – the Worli Sea Face Track (a part of the 7.5-kilometre Mumbai Coastal Road Promenade). The track has sparked a fresh wave of enthusiasm among Mumbaikars, many of whom say it gives the city’s cycling culture a big boost.Nikita, who posed exclusively for the BT lens, believes the new sea-facing cycling track has the potential to spark a larger movement toward fitness.

‘It bothered me why Mumbai didn’t have a cycling track by the sea’

Nikita, who has travelled extensively for shoots and marathons, echoed a sentiment many Mumbaikars share. “Every time I’ve visited a country with a stretch like this by the sea for running and cycling, it’s always bothered me why Mumbai doesn’t have something similar.

But finally, here we are. It’s so good to see this in my home city,” she said. ‘

Normalize cycling as a mainstream mode of transport’

As Mumbai continues to wrestle with its daily traffic snarls and environmental stress, Nikita believes the answer might just lie in going back to two wheels. “If we can normalize cycling as a mainstream mode of transport, it could ease congestion. But for that, our roads still need to evolve to support it better.”

‘On low-intensity days, I prefer to cycle, it gives me good cardio without the strain’

Known for her disciplined fitness regime and marathon medals, Nikita sees cycling as the perfect counterbalance to her running.

“Cycling is the easiest form of movement when it comes to muscle and joint stress. On low-intensity days, I prefer to cycle — it gives me good zone 2 and zone 3 cardio, without the strain.” What truly draws her to cycling, though, is the sheer joy of movement and being outdoors. “I love that you can be outdoors, travel long distances, and breathe in the morning air, all while working out.

That’s something no gym session can give you,” she said. Does she ever use cycling or running to prep for roles? “Absolutely,” she nods. “I was doing a dance-based film at one point when I couldn’t run much since it was a contradictory physical movement. That’s when I cycled a little more as it’s easy on the joints. But otherwise, the process of getting into a role depends entirely on what the character and script demand. regardless of that, exercising regularly keeps me mentally motivated and charged to face the camera.

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‘It's a mental reset on two wheels’

For Nikita, fitness is as much about mental clarity as it is about physical health. “Cycling, or any form of exercise, releases endorphins. It's a mental reset on two wheels. But what I love most is the way it connects you with your city. I always feel any city is best lived when you are out on foot or a pedal. Going for a round of cycling in the morning and getting some fresh air is the best way to start a day mentally.”

‘I try to run and cycle once a week each’

With work often stretching long into the night, Nikita’s fitness routine is tailored but consistent.

“I try to run and cycle once a week each, hit the gym three times a week for strength training, and squeeze in stretching or yoga on rest days. On shoot days, I grab whatever time I can for a convenient physical activity at any time during the day. Mind-blowing views and totally Insta-worthy, say MumbaikarsI am a frequent traveller and have seen similar places abroad. I was stunned to see the same in my city. I absolutely love this promenade. I love how convenient it is for everyone. And the views of the city and the sea are just mind-blowing and totally Insta-worthy- Mihira Sharma, investment bankerThe Coastal Road Promenade is one of the best spaces in the city because it has great access for the specially-abled, the elderly, children and everyone who is looking to walk, run, cycle or relax and spend some me-time close to the sea- Vijay Malhotra, cycling blogger and State Cycling Ambassador of MaharashtraMumbai’s Coastal Road Promenade is amazing. Here, you get an unhindered view of the seaside, and you can also walk or cycle for a long stretch amidst the cool sea breeze, at your own pace- Suresh Shinde, media professionalQUICK SPIN WITH NIKITAMarine Drive run or a ride along Worli’s Coastal Road?Worli Coastal Road! I’ve done hundreds of Marine Drive runs — this one’s new and exciting.Morning or evening ride?Morning. I’m an early riser.Favourite Mumbai cycling route?It used to be Bandra to Haji Ali via Siddhivinayak. Now, it’s definitely the Coastal Road.One cycling safety tip?Don’t underestimate the power of a helmet.Pre and post-ride routines?Before your ride, warm up with dynamic stretches for the back, wrists, hamstrings, and calves. Cool down by stretching glutes, hamstrings, and back well.Must-dos before hitting the roads on your bicycle?Sunscreen on your arms and face is a must. Tie your hair neatly under the helmet to avoid frizz. And always carry a good lip balm — the wind can be harsh!