Borrowdale in Harare was a hive of activity yesterday as cyclists of all ages and fitness levels converged for the second edition of the Pedal to Wellness event, hosted by Cimas Health Group through its wellness division, iGo.
The annual cycling event, which has become a key fixture on Zimbabwe’s wellness and sporting calendar, aims to promote healthy living and active lifestyles.
This year’s edition ran under the theme Promoting Heart Health & Active Lifestyles and comes just ahead of World Heart Day, commemorated globally on September 29.
iGo head Nicola Misi said the initiative goes beyond sport, representing Cimas’ broader commitment to inspiring healthier communities.
“For us at Cimas Health Group, Pedal to Wellness is more than just cycling — it’s a celebration of health, community, and active living,” Misi said.
“Whether you are cycling, cheering, or just soaking in the atmosphere, remember this: a healthy heart is a happy heart.”
The event drew participants from different walks of life, with families, fitness enthusiasts, and seasoned cyclists joining the peloton for the ride that started and finished at Borrowdale Office Park.
This year’s theme placed special emphasis on cardiovascular fitness, at a time when global statistics show that cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of death worldwide, claiming an estimated 17.9 million lives each year, according to the World Health Organisation.
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“Heart health is central to overall wellness,” Misi noted.
“While the heart is the strongest muscle in the body, it can become vulnerable to risk factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, diabetes, excessive alcohol intake, poor diet, high cholesterol and hypertension.
“The good news is that up to 80% of premature CVD deaths are preventable through screening and healthy lifestyle choices.”
Misi said Cimas was positioning events like Pedal to Wellness as part of a broader effort to fight non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes and hypertension by encouraging preventive care.
“Cycling is a fun and accessible way to keep active,” she explained.
“Through iGo, we provide members with holistic wellness resources — from health screenings and mental health support, to nutritional advice and personalised fitness plans.”
While participants sweated it out on the track, Cimas also used the event to showcase its wider iGo wellness programmes, which were established in 2016 to give members tools to manage the eight dimensions of wellness — including emotional, social, financial and physical well-being.
As part of the programme, members also enjoy discounts from gyms, supermarkets, spas, coffee shops, and other wellness partners.
The Borrowdale event capped off with festivities that highlighted the role of community and collective responsibility in building healthier lifestyles.
“Pedal to Wellness is part of our purpose — to inspire healthier communities,” Misi said.
“We believe a healthy nation benefits us all.”
