Source: Journal of Transport & Health

E-scooters are outpacing cars but fall short of walking for exercise intensity.

A recent study sheds light on the physical activity benefits of e-scooters, an increasingly popular form of micromobility. Researchers evaluated the metabolic energy expenditure and muscle activation of riding e-scooters compared to walking and driving. The findings suggest that while e-scooters provide light physical activity, they fall short of the moderate physical activity associated with walking.

Methodology

The study involved 20 participants aged 21–41 in a controlled crossover experiment. Researchers measured metabolic physical activity in METs (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) during a fixed course and assessed muscle activation during typical maneuvers. MET values, often used to quantify energy expenditure over time, were compared across e-scooter riding, walking, and driving.

Key findings

• Energy expenditure: Riding an e-scooter generated an energy expenditure of 2.14 METs, which is classified as light physical activity. This level was significantly higher than driving a car (1.42 METs) but lower than walking (3.12 METs).
• Muscle activation: E-scooter use resulted in greater muscle activation in the arms and trunk than both driving and walking, with higher engagement across all muscle groups compared to driving.
• Activity intensity: While driving is sedentary, e-scooters offer a light-intensity alternative, and walking remains a moderate-intensity activity.

Implications

The study highlights that e-scooters can contribute to physical activity when replacing sedentary modes of travel like driving. However, replacing walking with e-scooter use could reduce overall transportation-related physical activity. The findings suggest a nuanced approach to integrating e-scooters into urban mobility strategies, balancing convenience and health benefits.

As cities continue to promote micromobility, the physical activity impacts of e-scooters provide an important consideration for sustainable and health-conscious transportation planning.