The pitch, the field, the court, the green. No matter what you call it, the ground on which you play your sport plays a huge role in the experience of the player and their ability to perform. The age-old debate between grass and turf is ongoing, and while artificial surfaces are great for a number of reasons, grass also has its own unique merits.
Here are Sportsmark’s reasons why grass is a great surface for sports.
Traction
One of the greatest benefits of natural grass pitches is the traction they provide players and athletes. The surface of solid grass lends itself perfectly to players’ boots. For example, the surface of natural ground is soft enough for studs in a football boot to grip, but firm enough for a player to run with speed and efficiency.
These characteristics aren’t just good for the player, they’re also good for the ball. In football, for example, the way in which the ball interacts with the ground is crucial, influencing spin, bounce and speed. When a ball bounces on an artificial surface, the spin is changed significantly. However, when on grass, the ball maintains the spin intended by the player who kicked it.
Safety
One of the main dangers of playing on artificial ground, especially from high-speed sports, is grazing and friction burns caused by falling and sliding on the pitch. Grass on the other hand provides a perfect balance between the firmness of the soil and the cushioning of the blades themselves.
This means that in the event of a player going to the ground, they are far less likely to cut or graze themselves. Grass also poses far less of a risk of head injuries on impact for the same reasons.
Self Maintenance
A common reason for the favouring of artificial turf over natural grass is the effort it takes to maintain grass. However, grass and field care doesn’t have to be a difficult experience. With the right equipment and a good groundsman, it can be an enjoyable experience.
That said, let’s not forget that grass is natural. It repairs and tends for itself. Unlike turf, on which worn sections need replacing, well-kept grass will re-grow itself endlessly, saving money in the long run.
Doing It Properly
It is the job of the groundsmen or greenkeeper to ensure that a sports pitch is kept in prime condition, maintaining the beneficial characteristics of natural grass. Doing so is made easier when the correct equipment and techniques are used.
At Sportsmark, we’ve been providing our customers with the highest quality groundskeeping equipment for over 5 decades. No matter your need, from fertiliser spreaders to germination sheets, we have what it takes to maintain a healthy pitch.
Don’t wait, get in contact with us today and our friendly team will be happy to discuss your specific requirements.
Call us on 08000 197 733 or send an email to sales@sportsmark.net