World Boxing Champion Meenakshi Hooda joins Fit India Sundays on Cycle

New Delhi: When World Boxing Champion Meenakshi Hooda arrived at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium early this Sunday morning, she found herself among hundreds of cyclists, fitness enthusiasts, and families ready to ride together in the spirit of health and community.

“I feel so happy to join today,” she said.

“Just like I maintain my fitness through boxing, it is equally important for every woman, especially housewives and girls who may not play sports, to stay fit. They often get so busy with their daily routines that they forget themselves. This movement reminds everyone that fitness can be simple, joyful, and for everyone.” Her words captured the essence of Fit India Sundays on Cycle, now in its 45th edition. What began in December 2024 with around 500 participants in Delhi and 1,000 locations nationwide has today become a vibrant public movement that brings together more than 50,000 people every week across over 6,000 locations.

The initiative, led by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) in collaboration with the Cycling Federation of India (CFI), Yogasana Bharat, and MY Bharat, has become a flagship community fitness campaign under the Fit India Movement. It embodies the spirit of “Aadha Ghanta Roz – Fitness Ka Dose”, inspiring citizens to dedicate 30 minutes daily to physical well-being.

Under the guidance of Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya, the initiative has evolved into a true Jan Andolan for fitness, bringing together new groups and communities each week.

Participants have included Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), Doctors, Teachers, Government Employees, Schoolchildren, Members of Parliament/Member of Legislative Assemblies and public representatives, Lawyers, Postmen, Healthcare Workers, Safai Senanis, State Police Forces, Residents’ Welfare Associations (RWAs) amongst others. These diverse groups, spanning professions and generations, have helped the campaign reach every nook and corner of the country, turning local streets and parks into spaces of energy and camaraderie.

Given the ongoing festive season across the country, the previous week’s edition of Sundays on Cycle was celebrated in a unique “Cycle from Home” format, inviting citizens to join the movement from their homes, neighbourhoods, and local lanes.

The edition saw Mandaviya himself leading from the front as he cycled along with friends and people from his village, inspiring citizens across India to stay committed to fitness even amidst festive celebrations. His personal participation reaffirmed the Ministry’s message that fitness is not confined to a venue or event — it is a way of life that can be embraced by every individual, every day, and in every setting.

Tags : World Boxing Champion, Meenakshi Hooda, Cycling, Mansukh Mandaviya, Major Dhyan Chand Stadium