Online Reporter
Gibson Mhaka
COMMUNITIES should adopt healthier lifestyles and prioritise their heart health through regular physical activity, Cimas Health Group’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Vuli Ndlovu, has said.
In a press statement, Mr Ndlovu, who encouraged cycling as a way to strengthen the heart muscle, improve blood circulation, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, said they have organised the third edition of the cycling event, dubbed “Pedal to W3llness,” dedicated to promoting cardiovascular fitness and healthy lifestyles.
The event is set for September 27 at Borrowdale Office Park in Harare, which will serve as both the starting and finishing point.
The event, which is being organised through Cimas Health Group’s health and wellness division, iGo, is open to all cyclists, including children.
This year’s edition will be held under the theme, “Promoting Heart Health & Active Lifestyles,” which aligns with the upcoming annual World Heart Day observed globally on September 29.
“”Heart health is central to overall wellness. The focus is to raise awareness about heart health and the importance of keeping the heart in good shape through regular physical activity and healthy lifestyle choices,” Mr Ndlovu said.
“Pedal to W3llness is not just about fitness, it is about building lifelong habits that contribute to better health outcomes.
“As we continue living our purpose, to inspire healthier communities, I invite everyone to join the exciting Pedal to W3llness and take a step towards a healthier future. Together, we can promote heart health and encourage active living for all.”
Mr Ndlovu also highlighted the importance of the heart, describing it as the size of a fist and the strongest muscle in the body.
However, he warned that it can become vulnerable due to behavioural risk factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, diabetes, excessive alcohol intake, high cholesterol, an unhealthy diet, or living with high blood pressure.
He added that maintaining a healthy heart and an active lifestyle carries substantial health benefits.
“Up to 80 percent of premature CVD deaths are preventable through affordable access to care, early screening, and making healthy choices in nutrition, activity, and lifestyle.
“Cimas Health Group is making efforts to improve awareness and treatment of health issues that put individuals at risk for CVD, so no one misses a beat,” he said.
According to the World Health Organisation, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which are a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels, are the leading cause of death globally, taking an estimated 17.9 million lives each year. It is estimated that around one in 12 people globally are living with a heart or circulatory disease.
