What is a MUGA Field?

What is a MUGA Field?

MUGA fields (multi-use games areas) are small sports fields that you would typically find at high schools, community centers, local parks, and sports clubs. They can be used to play various different sports including:

MUGA fields are typically either 30m x 20m (5v5 size) or 60m x 40m (7v7 size).

When designing your MUGA field, it is important to consider what the primary sport will be, followed by any additional sports.

For example, at a school, the primary sport played might be soccer, followed by hockey and netball. In this situation, we would help you design a field that could be utilized for all three sports.

Multi-use-games-area (MUGA)
Multi-use-games-area (MUGA)

TYPES OF MULTI USE GAMES AREAS

There are four main different types of multi-use game areas, differentiated primarily by the material of the surface.

Sand based MUGA Field

Sand dressed surfaces are short-pile, dense surfaces that are sand-based and usually have a pile height of 24mm or less. There are three types of artificial turf sand-filled, sand-dressed and needle-punch synthetic grass.

Artificial turf MUGAs

Artificial turf surfaces are longer-pile artificial grass surfaces typically filled with sand and performance infill. The pile on a artificial turf MUGA surface is longer than sand dressed field, usually 40-65mm pile height.

MUGA multi-use pitch

TARMACADAM COURTS

Tarmacadam courts (also known as “tarmac” or a “macadam surface”) – these surfaces are hard surfaces made from crushed stone, sand, and tar. The hard material on these surfaces makes them extremely long-lasting and durable.

POLYMERIC MUGAs

Polymeric MUGAs (also known as play safety surfaces) are made from granulated rubber and are a popular choice for an all-weather MUGA field, as they are made from small granules that are bonded to create a softer surface than tarmacadam, creating a slightly shock-absorbing surface.

CHOOSING YOUR MUGA SURFACING

Our advice when choosing MUGA surfacing is simple! Your priority is to consider which sporting activities the surface will be used for, and from there we can help you choose the correct surface type.

You will want to have a maximum of three sports on one field; otherwise, all the lines can get confusing for field users.

BENEFITS OF A MULTI-USE GAMES AREA

EFFECTIVE FOR TRAINING SESSIONS

For weekly training sessions or drills, you don’t necessarily need to use a full-size MUGA sports field. It can often be more beneficial to have a smaller space to hone skills and create a more intimate session. The right MUGA field for your sport can also offer a high grip and greater shock absorbency than other surfaces.

LESS MAINTENANCE

Compared to a full-size field, the maintenance on MUGA fields is much easier as they are a significantly smaller area.

ALL-WEATHER SOLUTION

No mud, no mess, and no worries about playing in most weather conditions. Most MUGA surfaces can be utilized regardless of the weather, which is essential if you live in the UK!

COST EFFECTIVE

A MUGA field can utilize a small space and create a safe, durable surface for multiple sports to be played. Traditional grass requires more maintenance, making it less cost effective.

AN ATTRACTIVE FINISH

Undoubtedly, the resilience to weather conditions means MUGA fields retain a year-round attractive finish and can accommodate different colors.

HOW LONG DO MUGA fields LAST?

How long a MUGA field will last for depends on the surface type, but generally a artificial turf surface should last at least 8 years, and tarmacadam or polymeric significantly longer.

Multi-use game areas will require occasional maintenance such as brushing, rubber crumb infill top-ups, and line marking. If you need any help maintaining your MUGA field, please contact our in-house aftercare team who can help.

MULTI-USE GAMES AREAS WITH SIS PITCHES

We’re pleased to have installed MUGA fields at some of the following facilities:

  • Loughborough University
  • Powerleague
  • Football Fives
  • St Mary’s Catholic Primary School
  • West Herts Sports Club
  • City of London Academy (Islington)
  • Hugh Myddelton Primary School
  • Willows Sports Centre
  • Nishkam High School
  • Swavesey Village College
  • Hanslope Park
THE IDEAL SURFACE FOR MULTIPLE SPORTS

In summary, MUGA fields are a valuable addition to any community, providing a versatile and safe space for people of all ages to engage in physical activities and promote a healthy lifestyle. They offer numerous advantages, including durability, versatility, and inclusivity, making them a popular choice for schools, leisure centers, parks, and other recreational areas.

If your institution would like further information on MUGA fields, we would be happy to help.

ballerz training area MUGA pitch
MUGA pitches

Share:

Free Consultation

Looking for construction or maintenance of your synthetic, hybrid or natural sports surface? Get in touch with our experts for a free consultation.

Contact Us