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.

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.

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.”

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.”

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.”

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.

Worli Coastal Road! I’ve done hundreds of Marine Drive runs — this one’s new and exciting.

Morning. I’m an early riser.

It used to be Bandra to Haji Ali via Siddhivinayak. Now, it’s definitely the Coastal Road.

Don’t underestimate the power of a helmet.

Before your ride, warm up with dynamic stretches for the back, wrists, hamstrings, and calves. Cool down by stretching glutes, hamstrings, and back well.

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!