What Is a MUGA? (Multi Use Games Area)

If you work in education or community sports, you’ve likely heard the term MUGA being thrown about. But what exactly does it mean—and why is it such a hot topic for schools across the UK?

We’re STM (Synthetic Turf Management), and we’re here to demystify the MUGA, show you why they’re a game-changer for schools and clubs, and explain how our uniquely British-made surfaces make all the difference.

What does MUGA Stand For?

MUGA is an acronym that stands for Multi Use Games Area. It's a versatile, all-weather sports pitch made with synthetic turf, designed to accommodate multiple sports on a single surface. Think of it as a modern, multi-purpose playground—built to professional standards.

With a MUGA pitch, you can host activities including:

• Football

• Rugby

• Basketball

• Netball

• Tennis

• Hockey

• Rounders

• PE sessions & general sports training

Want to see what your ideal pitch could look like? Use our Pitch Builder Tool to design your perfect MUGA and request a tailored quote.

Claim Your Free Quote Today

Why would a school need a Multi-Use Games Area?

MUGAs are designed to help schools make the most of limited space and budgets. The idea is that, instead of having multiple pitches, costing more money and requiring more time for installation, schools can enjoy different sports using just one surface.

Why are STM MUGAs different?

STM MUGAs are made from the highest quality artificial turf available, produced here in the UK by our world leading manufacturers. Plus, we make our MUGAs out of multi-coloured turf, rather than plain old green. We think it helps clearly define which sports are which and, well, looks better too!

Multi Use Games Areas, how do they get built?

First of all, we talk with the school we’re working with until the cows come home. We really get to know each and every individual customer; their needs, their ideas and their goals. Then we get our top notch, high-experience CAD designers on the job to draw up some blue prints. If the school likes what they see, we get to making it. If not, we talk some more.

Design Your Own Pitch Here

What Is a MUGA Surface?

MUGA surfaces are designed to handle multiple sports on one pitch, with durable shock-absorbing layers and sport-specific markings.

We offer a range of surface types depending on your needs:

1. Rubber Crumb (3G Surfacing)

Made from recycled tyres and silica sand, this is a versatile surface that delivers great shock absorption and is ideal for football and general PE.

2. Sand-Dressed Synthetic Turf

Popular for hockey, tennis and multi-sport use. Slightly firmer underfoot, great for ball control and fast-paced games.

3. Polymeric Rubber

An excellent option for schools prioritising netball, basketball, or general playground activities. Slip-resistant and suitable for all weather.

Each system is fully customisable with colours, fencing, floodlights and line markings to match your curriculum or community sports programme.

How much do our MUGA pitch costs?

If you are interested in having a 3G MUGA installed for your facility or club, then make sure to take a look at our synthetic football pitch costs. We can help you with any artificial sports pitch, no matter what your budget is, don't hesitate to get in touch with us today!

Pitch Builder

We also have a really handy tool to help schools get to grips with their MUGA. Our pitch builder let’s you build your own virtual pitch from your own home (or school!). Go through the different steps, then submit your masterpiece and we’ll get in touch with you.

We hope this blog post has cleared up the mystery of the MUGA. If you’re interested in talking more MUGA stuff - we’d love to hear from you!

What Are the Benefits of a MUGA?

MUGAs do more than just save space. They bring real value to schools and communities through:

• Increased physical activity – Safe, accessible surfaces for structured PE and informal play

• Better mental health – Physical movement is proven to boost mood, focus and wellbeing

• More inclusive sport – Adaptable designs make it easier for pupils of all ages and abilities to participate

• Community connection – Open up your MUGA to local groups and clubs to encourage engagement and generate revenue

• Weatherproof performance – Year-round access without the mud and downtime of natural grass

STM helps you unlock all of these benefits—while keeping the design and cost tailored to your goals.

Increased Physical Activity With Multi Use Games Areas

Multi-Use Games Areas (MUGAs) provide the perfect opportunity to increase physical activity.

Sporting activities and sports facilities such as leisure centres, parks and MUGAs (both commercial and for schools or colleges) are proven to help reduce depression and anxiety, while promoting an overall sense of wellbeing.

The versatility of a MUGA allows people of all ages to enjoy a variety of disciplines, from football to netball or basketball; this helps encourage more physical activity for those who have limited access to recreational areas.

Furthermore, with the use of sophisticated equipment – including floodlights for evening sporting activities – these multi-use games areas can be used all year round in any weather conditions.

This ensures that MUGA's are up to requirements and can be used regularly, day and night through summer and winter. 

By providing safe and secure play areas equipped with high quality surfaces, our MUGA contractors can ensure their community is able to safely participate in physical activities regardless of age or ability level.

In doing so, we aim to create a lasting legacy that will benefit generations by creating healthier lifestyles through increased physical activity.

MUGA's Health Benefits

The health benefits associated with the installation of multi-use games areas are numerous.

Studies have shown that regular physical exercise is linked to a reduction in risk factors for chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Moreover, access to a type of outdoor sports facility can help promote positive mental wellbeing through increased endorphin levels, which reduce stress and anxiety.

Furthermore, providing these facilities will also aid in creating more cohesive communities by bringing people together from all walks of life who may not usually interact on a daily basis.

By offering engaging activities within an educational environment, MUGAs can be used as powerful tools for teaching children about teamwork and social interaction while still encouraging physical activity at all ages.

No matter what your requirements are, STM offers MUGA services across the UK. We can help design your perfect multi-use games area so you have all the features included that you require. Call us today for your free quote or using our contact form and we will get back in touch as soon as possible. 

Give us a call on 01642 713555