Spin, the micromobility unit of Ford Motor company, has found e-scooter hire schemes have a wide range of benefits on mental wellbeing, as well as being good for the planet.
In the first of its kind survey, Spin discovered the majority (70%) of respondents believe riding an e-scooter rented through a hire scheme helps improve mental health. 87% of riders felt an increased sense of freedom, 85% felt relaxed and 78% were more mindful as they could focus on immediate surroundings.
The research underpins how riders experience “flow”, a concept in psychology that refers to the state of mind in which a person becomes fully immersed in an activity and which consequently contributes to a better mental wellbeing.
Spin said this is aligned with riders feeling joyfulness, an emotion triggered by a chemical reaction in the brain and endorphin release.
Psychologist Emma Kenny supported these results: “It’s fantastic to see research that gives insight into how small pleasures can make a big difference in our everyday lives,” said Kenny.
“E-scooters, that are part of the public hire schemes offer the perfect medium to be more environmentally friendly, whilst letting our inner child run free. Whether you’re dashing to a board meeting, or heading for a University lecture, e-scooters offer a great alternative solution to your travel needs.
“Aside from the accessibility and ease of this kind of transport, you’ll also benefit from the feeling of freedom that comes when travelling from A to B this way. The benefits you receive from fresh air and the great outdoors is a form of informal mindful practice, meaning that you fully appreciate the here and now and experience the present as a gift.”
The findings were based on responses and data collected in August 2021 from Spin’s trial locations in Brentwood, Braintree, Basildon, Colchester, Chelmsford, Clacton-on-Sea and Milton Keynes.
