OUTDOOR GYM PLANNING
How to build a multi sport and games area
How to Build a Commercial Multi-Sport games area
Developing community spaces into something that is regularly used and enjoyed by local residents can be challenging. Installing a Multi-Use Game Area (MUGA) can be a fantastic solution, as it creates a space where people of all ages can enjoy a wide variety of sports and activities. MUGAs promote inclusivity, encourage physical activity, and enhance social interaction within communities.
How much does an MUGA cost? This can vary depending on the requirement of accessories needed, materials chosen and the size of the court. Our team of experts are more than happy to provide a quote for your specific needs.
Building a multi-sport court, also known as a MUGA (Multi-Use Games Area), requires careful planning, precise execution, and adherence to specific guidelines to ensure optimal functionality and safety. Here's a comprehensive guide outlining the essential steps involved in constructing a versatile and durable multi-sport court:
Site Selection and Preparation
Design and layout
Surface Selection
Construction and Installation
Quality Assurance and Compliance
Maintenance and Care
1. Site Selection and Preparation
Begin by choosing an appropriate location for your MUGA, taking into account factors such as accessibility, drainage, and proximity to amenities. Conduct a comprehensive site analysis to evaluate soil conditions, slopes, and any possible obstacles. Prepare the site by clearing vegetation, levelling the ground, and addressing any drainage issues to establish a stable foundation for the court.
2. Design and Layout
At KOMPAN, our in-house, experienced architects and designers develop a tailored layout that optimises your communal space and accommodates a variety of sports and activities. They will determine the dimensions and markings required for each sport, ensuring compliance with UK regulations and standards. The MUGA offers a wide range of design options, including fencing, lighting, and seating arrangements, to improve functionality and aesthetics. A KOMPAN MUGA solution goes beyond just fencing and goals. We guarantee that your MUGA will be versatile, long-lasting, and tailored to your specific requirements.
3. Surface Selection
Choose the right MUGA surfacing based on budget, placement, and usage. No matter the square footage available you can create a versatile multi-sport area. Our experts will help you make an informed decision for long-lasting results in the UK weather. Options for outdoor surfaces may include artificial turf, acrylic coatings, or modular court tiles. Each option offers unique advantages in terms of durability, performance, and maintenance requirements. It's important to ensure proper installation and surface preparation to optimise playability and safety.
4. Construction and Installation
Engage qualified contractors with expertise in sports facility construction. Follow best practices and safety protocols during excavation, foundation installation, surfacing, and line marking. Install accessories according to specified dimensions and regulations.
5. Quality Assurance and Compliance
Perform comprehensive quality assurance checks during construction to detect and resolve potential issues or discrepancies. Ensure compliance with applicable UK building regulations, safety standards, and accessibility guidelines to guarantee the facility meets the requirements of all users, including those with disabilities.
6. Maintenance and Inspections
Maintain a regular schedule for maintenance to preserve the integrity and functionality of the multi-sport court. Conduct routine inspections, cleaning, and repairs as needed to extend the lifespan of the surface and equipment. Educate users on proper usage guidelines and etiquette to promote safety and respect for the facility.
What are the benefits of a multi-use games area?
Versatility redefined
MUGAs provide exceptional versatility, accommodating a wide range of sports and recreational activities in a single space. They are fantastic areas for people of all ages to play football, basketball, cricket, netball, tennis, hockey or any childhood ball sport. These adaptable spaces allow individuals of all ages and skill levels to engage in their favourite games right in their community. By maximizing space efficiency, councils and architects can optimise land usage, making MUGAs a cost-effective investment for communities of any size.
Promoting an active lifestyle
In today's society, where people are becoming more sedentary, it's crucial to encourage physical activity. Multi-Use Games Areas (MUGAs) offer a safe and accessible space for community residents to take part in sports and fitness activities, promoting healthier lifestyles and helping to address the issue of childhood obesity. By promoting a culture of active living, communities can greatly improve public health.
Facilitating social connection
MUGAs extend beyond the realm of athletics to serve as vibrant social hubs where individuals come together to bond, collaborate, and form lasting relationships. Whether it's a 5-aside game with friends or a must-win tennis match, these shared experiences cultivate a sense of camaraderie and belonging in the community. Additionally, MUGAs promote intergenerational interaction, bridging the gap between different age groups and fostering mutual respect and understanding through sport.
Ensuring inclusion
The design of MUGAs prioritises accessibility, ensuring that everyone can fully participate in recreational activities regardless of physical ability. Features such as wheelchair-friendly entrances, tactile markings, and adjustable hoop heights make MUGAs inclusive and accommodating for individuals with diverse needs. By creating welcoming environments that value and include everyone, municipalities can promote social equity and strengthen community cohesion. Learn more about inclusive outdoor gym design here.
Great for schools and institutions
Multi-sport courts can help enhance PE lessons and add curriculum by providing a dedicated space for structured lessons and recreational play. Teachers can design engaging activities that align with learning objectives, helping students develop fundamental motor skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship in a safe and supervised setting. They can also serve as a great space for students to enjoy during break or lunch, allowing them to run around and get extra exercise in a fun way, even during colder and wetter winter months. See more inspiration for school playgrounds here or learn more about how we study fitness benefits through play here.
What MUGA should you choose?
Multisport court Dimensions
Basketball, hockey, soccer, pickleball and tennis are just a few activities you can enjoy on a commercial multi-sport court. Here is a brief overview of the key considerations for each sport when building your MUGA. By addressing each sport's specific needs and requirements, a multi-sport court can accommodate a wide range of activities and cater to diverse user preferences within a single facility.
Find suggested dimensions for your multi sport court below.
Basketball sport court dimensions
Dimensions: A regulation basketball court measures 28 meters in length and 14 meters in width, with a hoop positioned 10 feet above the ground.
Surface: Choose a durable, high-traction surface such as acrylic or rubber flooring to support fast-paced gameplay and reduce the risk of injuries.
Markings: Install boundary lines, centre court line, free-throw line, and three-point line according to official regulations.
Equipment: Provide sturdy basketball hoops with breakaway rims and adjustable heights to accommodate players of all ages and skill levels.
Hockey sport court dimensions
Dimensions: Hockey courts typically follow the same dimensions as a standard ice hockey rink, approximately 60x25 meters.
Surface: Opt for a smooth, non-abrasive surface such as synthetic ice or plastic flooring to mimic the glide of traditional ice hockey.
Markings: Install goal creases, blue lines, red lines, and face-off circles to replicate the layout of a hockey rink.
Equipment: Install hockey goals with protective padding and sturdy construction to withstand impacts from pucks and players.
Football sport court dimensions
Dimensions: Soccer courts vary in size but typically range from 30 to 39 meters in length and 15 to 24 meters in width.
Surface: Choose a synthetic turf or rubberized surface with good shock absorption and ball rebound characteristics.
Markings: Install boundary lines, penalty areas, goal boxes, and a centre circle according to official soccer regulations.
Equipment: Provide regulation-size soccer goals with durable netting and secure anchoring to withstand shots and weather conditions.
Pickleball sport court dimensions
Dimensions: A pickleball court measures 6 meters in width and 13 meters in length for doubles play, with a 2-metre non-volley zone on either side of the net.
Surface: Use a smooth, cushioned surface such as acrylic or composite material to support quick movements and reduce joint strain.
Markings: Install boundary lines, centerline, non-volley zone, and service areas according to official pickleball standards.
Equipment: Set up pickleball nets with adjustable heights and sturdy frames to maintain proper tension during gameplay.
Tennis sport court dimensions
Dimensions: A standard tennis court measures 23 meters in length and 10 meters in width for singles play.
Surface: Choose a high-quality, resilient surface such as acrylic or clay to provide consistent ball bounce and player comfort.
Markings: Install boundary lines, service lines, baseline, and centre service lines according to official tennis regulations.
Equipment: Provide tennis nets with proper tensioning mechanisms and durable posts to withstand tension and weather conditions.
How much does a multi-sport court cost?
The cost of a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) can vary significantly depending on factors such as size, surface material, equipment, location, and additional features or amenities. Here's a breakdown of potential cost considerations:
Size: The size of the Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) directly impacts the overall cost. Larger courts require more materials and labour for construction, leading to increased expenses.
Surface Material: The choice of surface material, such as acrylic, polyurethane, artificial turf, or interlocking tiles, can significantly impact the cost. Some materials may require extensive preparation and installation, contributing to higher costs.
Equipment: The overall budget should factor in the cost of equipment, including goals, hoops, nets, and line markings. Equipment pricing varies based on quality and durability.
Site Preparation: Site preparation costs, such as clearing, leveling, and drainage, must be included in the budget.
Additional Features: Adding lighting, fencing, seating, shelters, and landscaping improves the MUGA but also increases the cost.
Maintenance: Consider ongoing maintenance costs, such as cleaning, repairs, and surface recoating or resurfacing, throughout the MUGA's lifespan.
It's difficult to provide an exact cost without specific project details. Consult with experienced contractors, architects, or MUGA specialists to assess your needs and obtain accurate cost estimates tailored to your project requirements. Additionally, exploring financing options or seeking funding assistance from grants, sponsorships, or community partnerships may help offset the cost of a MUGA project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good size for a multi-sport court?
The ideal size for a multi-sport court depends on various factors such as available space, budget, and the intended usage of the facility. However, a versatile and commonly recommended size for a multi-sport court is approximately 30 meters by 18 meters. This size allows for various sports with minor adjustments to court markings. It's essential to consider the dimensions required for each sport you intend to accommodate and ensure there is enough space for safe play and movement between different activity zones.
What is the best surface for an outdoor sports court?
The ideal surface for an outdoor sports court depends on factors such as climate, budget, maintenance requirements, and the types of sports to be played. Please consult your local KOMPAN sales expert to choose the correct surfacing for your MUGA.
Which sports can be played on a multi-sport court?
A multi-sport court is designed to accommodate a wide range of sports and recreational activities, including but not limited to:
Football
Tennis
Netball
Basketball
Hockey
Badminton
Pickleball
Handball
Futsal
Netball
Cricket (modified version)
With proper court markings and equipment, these sports can be played interchangeably on the same court, making multi-sport courts highly versatile and suitable for various user groups and preferences.
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