From schools and colleges, to sports clubs and leisure centres, MUGA pitches have become an increasingly popular choice for organisations looking to maximise the use of their facilities. Designed to be used by a variety of different sports, MUGAs are perfect for providing a safe and consistent surface that can be used by all levels of players. In this blog post, we will take a look at what a muga football pitch is and what goes into the construction of these versatile multi-use areas.
There are many different types of MUGA surfaces that are available, depending on the type of sports being played and how much traffic the area is likely to receive. 3G artificial turf is an excellent option for those who want a high-quality playing surface that can be used for a range of different sports. This type of surfacing is ideal for sports that involve a lot of body contact, such as rugby and hockey, as it has shock absorbent properties that can help to protect players from injuries.
A sand-dressed surface is another popular choice for MUGAs, as it offers the same kind of playability as 3G synthetic grass but with less maintenance requirements. This surface has a shorter pile of artificial fibres and is primarily used for sports such as hockey and 5-a-side football, as it can provide a good level of grip for these types of games. This type of surfacing also requires players to wear the correct types of shoes to curb any potential damage that could be caused by hard or sharp objects on the surface.
Lastly, a polymeric surface is a cost-effective MUGA option that can be used for a number of different sporting activities, including netball, tennis and basketball. This surfacing is a durable, slip-resistant material that is typically built on top of tarmac. It is recommended for schools and districts that want a multi-use facility for a variety of different sports but do not have the budget to install separate surfaces for each individual sport.
The construction of a MUGA includes the laying down of an appropriate base, a drainage system and the chosen surfacing. If the MUGA is being constructed with artificial turf, a shock pad may also be installed underneath to reduce the impact that falls have on the players’ bodies. This helps to protect them from career-threatening injuries.
Unlike actual grass fields, which require mowing, trimming and chemical treatment, MUGA pitches are low-maintenance surfaces that only need regular brushing and infill refilling to keep them in peak condition. This makes them a cost-effective alternative to traditional grass fields, especially when the area will be regularly used by sports teams and their players throughout the year. They are also suitable for use in all weather conditions, meaning that they do not need to be closed down or restricted due to the rain.