What Are MUGAS?
Whether you’re researching different options for a new playground design, or you have been advised to consider a MUGA for your school to help pupils reach recommended exercise goals, the fact is, the term isn’t all that common. Many people don’t know what MUGAS are, and yet, they’re actually integral to a really great outdoor space design.
The good news is that today is the day you learn all about MUGAS, so you can create the perfect playground environment for the benefit of your pupils.
So, What Are MUGAS?
MUGA stands for Multi-Use Games Area. You have most likely seen these at sports centers, or in a public park where there is a court with multiple markings and a fenced area around the space.
Essentially, it means that one single prepared space can then be used for various different types of sports, often with an easy transition by adding different equipment or rules to apply to different markings.
Markings are most often applied to tarmac and similarly flat surfaces, but artificial grass can be a part of a MUGA, in which case thermoplastic markings will not be possible because of the heat involved in the installation.
Paint spray markings are usually used in this instance, or removable markers and equipment that allow enough guidance for players to navigate the game. Some facilities also like to have real grass in their MUGA, although this is less common.
What Kinds Of Sports Can Be Played In A MUGA?
This kind of multi-purpose facility provides you with the option to play any kind of sport you like. Most schools will have various thermoplastic markings put down so that there is a starting point for each type of game. Common games played in MUGAS are:
- Basketball
- Football
- Tennis
- Mini-Tennis
- Netball
Are MUGAS Permanent?
A MUGA can be a permanent addition to a school’s grounds, often utilizing permanent metal fencing or timber fencing and tarmac in various color schemes and designs so that they can be used at any time, without much preparation.
Artificial and real grass may also form part of the overall design, depending on the aesthetic and maintenance you consider acceptable.
Some schools, however, prefer to have thermoplastic playground markings on the playground space which can be extensive, unique, or standard in design.
Thermoplastic is durable, reflective, lead and chromate free, and anti-slip, and you can have it in over 100 different colors and designs so that the markings you have worked perfectly with your school’s outdoor aesthetic.
Your chosen playground thermoplastic design can then be enhanced with MUGA games end panels, and/ or special temporary fencing that can be added or removed accordingly. The fencing is usually very easy to store as it is stackable, and is used along with accessories like bibs, temporary hoops, and other additions that create the perfect game setup.
Once the session is over the items are quickly cleared away and the playground can be utilized as before. Essentially, doing it this way makes the playground multi-functional.
Is It Time You Had A MUGA Installed?
Why not speak to a professional school playground equipment company about installing a MUGA in your playground? There’s an option to suit every school, whether it’s simple multi-game end panels or a full tarmac-fenced MUGA with beautiful thermoplastic markings.
Whichever option you choose, the durability, fun, and additional options for enhanced PE lessons, playtimes and more offered by a MUGA make them more than worth the investment.
Why not get a professional quote today and find out which type of MUGA best suits your facility?