The therapeutic power of electric radio control cars for men’s mental health
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s essential to find ways to manage stress and promote mental well-being. One activity that has gained popularity in recent years is the use of electric radio control (RC) cars. Not only are these miniature vehicles a source of entertainment, but they also offer numerous benefits for men’s mental health.
For the second year, The East Anglia Scale Trail (EAST) held a family event at Tixover Quarry in Stamford on Saturday 3 June 2023, at a 70-acre disused sandstone quarry and kindly donated £1,000 to ‘For Men To Talk’.
The Tixover site is widely renowned to be one of the UK’s leading off-road sites, which it is ideal for remote control cars. It has impressive terrain such as steep hills and descents, technical training section, visual displays, mud and water, slopes and wading sections.
But how can it help mental health?
Stress Relief and Distraction
Engaging in a hobby such as operating an electric RC car can provide an excellent outlet for stress relief. Men often face significant pressures in their personal and professional lives, and having a diversion from those stressors is crucial. By immersing themselves in the world of RC cars, men can temporarily escape their worries and focus their attention on a fun and challenging activity. The concentration required to control the car and navigate obstacles helps distract the mind, promoting relaxation and a break from daily concerns.
Sense of Achievement and Mastery
Electric RC cars offer a unique opportunity for men to develop a sense of achievement and mastery. From assembling the car to fine-tuning its performance, men can engage in a hands-on experience that allows them to learn new skills and enhance their problem-solving abilities. The process of building and customising an RC car provides a tangible outcome and successfully maneuvering the vehicle around obstacles or on a race track generates a sense of accomplishment, boosting self-confidence and self-esteem.
Social Connection and Community
Engaging in the hobby of electric RC cars can also facilitate social connection and foster a sense of community. Men can join local RC car clubs or participate in races and events, where they can meet like-minded enthusiasts who share their passion. The camaraderie and support from fellow hobbyists create opportunities for friendship, bonding, and shared experiences. Through these interactions, men can expand their social network, improve communication skills, and find support systems that contribute to overall mental well-being.
Mindfulness and Mind-Body Connection
Operating an electric RC car requires focus, attention to detail and a heightened mind-body connection. Men must be mindful of their actions, anticipate obstacles and make split-second decisions while controlling the car. This level of concentration promotes mindfulness, a state of being fully present in the moment, which can reduce anxiety and improve overall mental clarity. Additionally, the physical coordination required to manipulate the controls of the RC car enhances the mind-body connection, promoting relaxation and a sense of harmony between the body and mind.
“I can’t thank The East Anglia Scale Trail (EAST) enough, for once again supporting us,” said ‘For Men To Talk’ founder Luke Newman. “I recently attended the Bedford Electric Radio Control Club with my twin boys. It’s a simply incredible place and fully inclusion for men, women, boys and girls. Electric remote control cars gets you out and about can make you feel happier and more relaxed.”
“With Bedford Electric Radio Control Club (BERCC) and ‘For Men To Talk’, we have one common goal, that’s to help improve the mental health for all our attendees,” said Paul Baker. “The East Anglia Scale Trail (EAST) family event at Tixover Quarry was a huge success, the generosity of all the people that came to the event was outstanding and we are delighted to donate £1,000 once again.”
The BERCC is now fully open, offering a woodland trail, competition area, natural rock area and soon to be built 1/10th & 1/16th rally track. For more information, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1167083350136862/