It doesnt drain away in a different way than rain. Anyone who has played an outdoor sport in their life can relate to this topic and probably has an opinion of their own. In terms of safety, grass is generally softer than turf, so falling onto a grass field will feel more cushioned than a fall on artificial turf. If you only need a place for sports and play, installing turf could be better. Before addressing the economic costs of using synthetic turf or natural grass, it is important to recognize that there are many different varieties of natural grasses that can be used for soccer fields. It comes down to how many resources grass requires to maintain that beautiful green color. It is not possible to say yes. It . All artificial turf is made with toxic PFAS compounds and some is still produced with ground-up tires that can contain heavy metals, benzene, VOCs and other carcinogens that can present a health. Turf is mostly made of recycled tires, so it gets a lot hotter under hot weather. You can find the right artificial grass for you by researching the costs and materials. For instance, concrete has a very high G-max value. Artificial turf was found to have slightly more ankle injuries than grass. Not only is natural grass cooler to the touch, but surrounding your home with it can reduce your cooling costs in the summer, too. Some of its major advantages over grass include its consistency as a medium, making for a smooth even playing surface that doesn't surprise players as grass can. Natural turf offers a safe, resilient surface for children. Another concern with artificial turf is the hardness of the turf surfaces. Longevity. But if you keep care of your grass then more injuries are gonna happen on turf. Growing real grass is a low cost installation. Another advantage of playing on turf is increased playing time. Lower maintenance costs with artificial turf. Falls on turf (or hardened grass) lead to more forceful impacts, making it important for players to protect their torso. Plus grass is a softer surface to land on for hard hitting sports like lacrosse and football, which could lead to less injuries in those sports as well. Although no answer is definitely the right or wrong one, eventually it will be up to you. These will only encourage droppings to build up and rodents to dig at the grass below the feeder.". With a more controlled speed, players can focus on their ball control, leading to more accurate passes and shotmaking ability. This isn't the case with turf, and you also won't have to worry about it getting torn up or muddied after a storm. Ultimately, whether players are on a turf surface or a hardened grass field, they need the right soccer protective gear to keep them protected from hard impacts or conditions that may lead to strenuous movements. If you think about it, turf is made of plastic. Results: A total of 668 match injuries, 526 on grass and 142 on artificial turf, were recorded. You wont have to clean urine from the grass. The amount of water and chemicals needed to keep natural grass healthy and green is concerning to those who enjoy an eco-friendly lifestyle. Artificial grass has been making up more ground in recent years as it has replaced natural grass on playing fields and even in backyards and garden areas. Turf and harder grass surfaces can lead to significant turf burns due to their more abrasive textures. There was no evidence to support the idea that playing on artificial turf causes cancer. Its realand thats what most lawns and ballfields have been for many years and with a little maintenance have always performed as expected. Why do Females and Males Have Different Handwriting Styles? Perfect Grass Ltd. offers this dystopian advice for preventing the simple pleasure of watching birds enjoy a source of food during a long, cold winter: "Keep bird feeders well away from your artificial grass. In the winter, grass becomes muddy and icy. It Reduces Water Use. Of course, nature has not prevailed when it comes to playing surfaces in the soccer world. Polyamide is used for lawns and gardens; this synthetic turf needs to be irrigated with water. It burns your feet as you wear black cleats when you get injured on turf. Mentions turf releases heat faster than natural grass. Knee joints are susceptible to these injuries, and thats why we recommended. The majority of athletes prefer playing on grass fields. Professional football players who chase and collide with each other at high speeds are at risk of turf burn. Scientists took carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen and oxygen and made nylon. From potholes to uneven fields, there are more than a few ways that grass can become damaged over time, leading to a number of different types of injuries. If you're spending one or two hours per week for your regular game of 5-a-side (or any other format of the game) on a rubber-crumb artificial surface then the risk . Artificial turf can hold up to heavy use and weather conditions and maintain its look and consistency. Hard impacts on these surfaces may increase the forces players endure and lead to more serious injuries. Another advantage is that turf requires little maintenance and is not as sensitive as grass, making it great for wet conditions where playing on grass could result in ruining the field. Finally, when it comes to sliding, grass is the better surface. Ultimately, whether players are on a turf surface or a hardened grass field, they need the right soccer protective gear to keep them protected from hard impacts or conditions that may lead to strenuous movements. 20% OFF EVERYTHING | FREE SHIPPING ORDERS $75+, ***This article is part of an educational series for soccer parents and youth players new to soccer***. 5 Reasons Why Turf Is Better Artificial turf often gets a bad rap, and there are those people who continue to claim that real grass is safer and offers better performance. The stadium had a covered baseball field of natural grass and was built with a transparent roof in order to provide enough light for the grass to grow. provide players with more control so that theyre able to match the performance theyd have on a natural grass surface. Easy to clean up. Why is turf more dangerous? Sports Turf Management Association (STMA). Its a shame to think that maybe if we were on grass that day he never would have torn it. The coefficient of friction is exactly what it sounds like, how much friction the surface creates. 2. Here are 5 reasons why artificial turf does not cause more injuries: Shock Absorption Artificial turf is installed on a top of a shock pad, which absorbs the impact of player collisions. For sport applications, the pile height is extremely important because the higher the pile height, the greater the amount of infill material that can be applied. You wont get the smell and feel of natural grass but you also wont get the maintenance and upkeep. Grass or turf? The process of transpiration has a cooling affect that lowers the temperature of the air around the turfgrass plant. That's the biggest issue. Artificial turf is older and cheaper. The overall acute match injury incidence was 17.1 (95% CI 15.8 to 18.4) per 1000 match hours; 17.0 (95% CI 15.6 to 18.5) on grass and 17.6 (95% CI 14.7 to 20.5) on artificial turf. Until then, turf will remain the go-to surface for arenas around the world. However, according to John Brenkus in one of his Sport Science videos, recent studies have shown that turf reduces the risk for injury by over 10%, yet turf increases stress on the ACL joint by about 45%. to help prevent these sidelining injuries. Health risk assessment studies suggested that users of artificial turf fields, even professional athletes, were not exposed to elevated risks. Overall, turf grants athletes increased playability. [1] Since SYNRenew is plant-based and sustainable, there is no need to be upset about using it. This isn't always the case, however. Because it wont create muddy patches or holes and ruts, people are less likely to be hurt while playing on this surface. That is the question. Its terrible that doctors can not find out if the rubber pieces really do cause cancer due to all the chemicals, but maybe it would just be safer for everyone to play on grass instead of turf. Personally, in my experiences playing soccer, football, and even baseball on grass and turf fields, I enjoy playing on turf more, but am definitely more sore after playing on turf than I am on grass. The turf vs. grass debate has been a topic of conversation among players and the NFL for quite some time. Until then, turf will remain the go-to surface for arenas around the world. Heat hazard. The unit used to. Some of the changes that have occurred in professional football were necessary for the game. Why Soft Outdoor Basketball Courts Are A Better Option. Studies have provided evidence supporting and opposing the idea that turf fields are more dangerous than grass fields. Artificial grass is more durable; while still retaining the look and playing characteristics of natural turf, it stands up to continuous use, enabling clubs to cover the initial cost of installing a high-performance synthetic football turf by enlisting more players, and by renting the facility out to other teams and organisations. It retains its edge and doesn't lose its shape even when wet, which makes it perfect for sports like field hockey where precision is important. The main benefit of turf is its cost-effectiveness. Who has the smallest college football stadium? Artificial grass needs to be replaced every 10-20 years, which could ultimately cost you more money. Why is dirt better than grass? Increasing sports injury severity. The following are three big reasons that natural grass is better than turf for playing soccer. - Dj Will Gill. Turf is Safer in Many Ways With natural grass comes hidden rocks, patches of hard dirt, and surface inconsistencies that can quickly lead to player injuries and facility liability risks. Grass infields are notoriously difficult to maintain, especially in high traffic areas like the infield. Can you rule out the possibility of synthetic turf causing cancer? Football athletes playing on artificial turf have a higher rate of injury to the knee, but there is no increased risk in soccer. Dry weather, however, can cause natural grass fields to harden as well. The EPA acknowledged in July that synthetic turf contains toxic chemicals that can cause cancer. According to a study done in 2007, impact forces on the bodys bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments can be affected by turf surfaces being stiff. Why is turf dangerous? Soccer Protective Gear is Key for Either Surface. Therefore, part of the pile height will be covered with infill. A 2019 study out of Cleveland-based University Hospitals said that high school players - both boys and girls - playing sports on turf fields suffered 58 percent more injuries than those playing on natural grass fields. Remember, various indicative studies have suggested that there is no significant risk of getting cancer from this type of turf. What is artificial turf? Chemicals that have been shown to cause cancer can be found in synthetic turf fields. However, once you play in high school, you start to form your own views. Consequently, certain grass and turf fields have higher G-max values, which lead to a higher rate of concussions and other contact injuries. Cut no more than a 1/3 of the grass blade, aiming for a height of 3 inches for a healthy carpet of lawn. Why Does Music Trigger Specific Memories? You cant beat the look and feel of a real lawn. How to Come Back From a Soccer Injury Without Re-Injuring Yourself. Studies show that there is an increased chance of an injury to the anterior cruciate ligament. No need to water, cut or fertilize which will save you a few dollars and give you a lot of free time back. It's not that grass itself is dangerous to the environment or that turf is made from components that help the environment. 3. Not shade tolerant. Turf is considerably cooler than most other common surfaces, fifteen degrees colder than concrete and 30 degrees less than synthetic turf. In both scenarios, the playing field can be hazardous for athletes to run, cut, slide, kick, tackle, and pretty much any other movement needed to play a sport. Additionally, the increased risk of ACL injury associated with activity on artificial turf is made worse by hot or dry weather conditions, with increased injury rates in the summer months. Turf/sod is grown on farms, harvested, and used by landscapers to establish new lawns. Additionally, the upkeep of grass is more time-consuming and costly as opposed to turf, so from a budgeting perspective, turf is advantageous. Grass and turf both have their pros and cons, and some players (and teams) will have more comfort on either surface. The infill is composed of rubber (crumb rubber) or silica pellets and can be mixed with sand. With that said, grass fields can vary significantly in quality, so some fields may present safety disadvantages. For many, theres nothing like the smell of freshly cut grass. How SC200 has changed my view to vaccines. Here are 3 great reasons why turf is more beneficial to the environment: 1. It Reduces Water Use Water is becoming a precious resource in some parts of the country. And its a good question. Also, other important factors like excessive heat, and unnatural bounce of the ball significantly affect the performance of the game on turf. The turf can last up to 20 years if you take care of it. The answer to how long artificial turf lasts can be anywhere from 10 to 20 years. Dorfman agrees, noting that ankle, knee and head injuries can be exacerbated on turf, which is a harder surface than grass. ARTIFICIAL TURF BENEFITS Despite the protective benefits of natural grass fields, fewer schools use them because of the extra maintenance required and lack of flexibility. Polyethylene is the most popular new type of material, which is used for sports fields and gardens. It can save you money on your utility bill and provide you with the perfect lawn year-round! Rainfall causes more damage to natural grass fields, leading to poor surface conditions and match cancellations. Artificial turf does not require those chemicals. Unfortunately it doesnt always stay like that and homeowners and maintenance people alike spend a good amount of time getting it looking just right. Seriously It's Not a Plant. There are a number of environmental concerns associated with artificial turf. For most people, it is a matter of preference. Injury rates for PCL tears were significantly increased during competitions played on artificial turf as compared with natural grass. Youth: Choosing a Soccer Position: When and How Should it Happen. Researchers are studying the effects of artificial turf on increasing sports injuries, including increased frequency and severity of head injuries, and increased potential for infection and skin burns. Natural grass is cooler that artificial turf Unlike natural grass, an artificial turf absorbs sunlight and traps heat. However, the truth is that turf offers the same level of safety and performance as grass fields. Rather than asking which surface players prefer to play on, I wonder whether there is a difference in the frequency of injuries on turf compared to on grass. Our addiction to lawns means that grass is the single largest irrigated agricultural "crop" in America, more than corn, wheat, and fruit orchards combined. The playing surface on real grass is very soft and easy to play on. Coleman said that the impact of playing on turf is more than just a mental one. Research has shown that as the coefficient of friction increases there is an increase in the rate of lower extremity injuries. One study found that the rate of ACL injuries increased by 45% on turf, largely due to cleats failing to grip to the artificial grass as they do on natural grass. We'll explain to you the top reasons why artificial turf is better than grass. Employ Integrated Pest Management to monitor and control pests and diseases. Maintenance costs The time of playing Disadvantages of Turf Injury Risk High heat Unnatural Bounce and Ball Movement Abrasive Surface Exaggerated pace towards the ball Benefits and Disadvantages of Grass Indoor Soccer Balls My Bold Opinion and Experience The Soccer Ball Grass vs Turf Battle The first reason why DelaTurf recommends having artificial grass over regular grass is that less watering will be needed. Researches are concerned about the impact of chemicals in fake grass on human health and the environment. The purpose of this infill is to simulate the dirt in between the blades of natural grass. Artificial turf is rolled out at a home in California. Abnormal heat levels were also recorded as high as 7 feet, indicating . Artificial turf can absorb heat and can get a bit hot on extremely warm days. Artificial grass always looks aesthetically pleasing in all types of weather. found that artificial grass can cost as much as $23,000 per year to maintain as opposed to $14,000 for natural grass. What is difference between Grass, Turf and Astro Turf? In its early years, athletes dreaded playing games on artificial turf. What are the disadvantages of artificial turf. The cost of natural grass over time is the more expensive option compared to other options. Dogs are able to pee and poop on artificial grass just like they would on natural grass. More than 70 percent of players prefer playing on natural grass, while 15 percent prefer instuctive systems, and 11 had no preference at all. The plastic used to make fake grass emits carbon and uses fossil fuels, so it doesnt have any climate benefits. Much more durable than natural grass. An analysis published in The American Journal of Sports Medicine found that playing football on turf may lead to more PCL injuries than playing the same game on grass. Lets take a look at some of the pros and cons. Natural grass is not an eco-friendly lawn. No, Im not talking about sprained ankles, pulled muscles, or torn ligaments, I am talking about cancer. First of all, let's start with the obvious. Backyard Sports, Basketball, Kids Sports, Uncategorized, GET STARTED & LEARN MORE ABOUT OWNING A MBS FRANCHISE. They evaluated injuries from 2006 - 2008 in American college level football players and found more injuries on natural grass than synthetic turf (53.4% compared to 46.6%). Specifically, modern turfs are typically "infill" surfaces. The ball also has a more natural bounce on grass, making it easier for players to control it once it lands from a long pass. Pesticide Free Chemicals Unlike grass fields, turf fields don't have to be sprayed and treated with pesticides and other chemicals to keep the grass from disease and other pest related disruptions. Consequently, certain grass and turf fields have higher G-max values, which lead to a higher rate of concussions and other contact injuries. A common misconception about artificial turf is that, since it requires no water or fertilizer, it's better for the environment. For one, grass allows teams to play matches at a pace thats ideal for them, unlike turf (more on this later). 2. , which may lead to natural grass adoption in lower levels of the sport. Injuries are more likely to happen on turf due to cleats not being able to penetrate the ground as they would on grass. cleats arent able to penetrate the ground as they would on grass, so injuries are more likely on turf. Call us Today! The heat-absorbing properties of an artificial field make it too hot to play on in extremely warm weather. EL-Does not use any statements from the article. Nevertheless, its important to wear the right soccer protective gear since grass or turf can injure a player if theyre not using the right equipment. With natural grass, the planted foot would more easily be able to move, preventing the high forces put on the knee and reducing the risk of injury. Turf has been hated on for years by NFL players. There were no proven harmful effects when we came into contact with these materials. Why is turf more dangerous? With that said, theres more to grass surfaces than just ones comfort level. The synthetic turf product in their study was Fieldturf, which was specifically developed to replicate the playing characteristics of natural grass. Unlike grass, which involves far more maintenance (and therefore, comes at a higher cost), turf needs far less lawn care. Synthetic Grass utilizes infill materials like crumb rubber and sand to get a better appearance, improved performance, and greater durability. Of course, natural turf requires more maintenance than its artificial counterpart, but it will certainly pay off in the long run. The higher risk for common injuries would be worth it compared to risking an ACL injury, or worse, getting cancer. In terms of performance, turf can be a boon or a burden for players. Lets start with good old natural grass. This helps reduce injuries caused by contact with the playing surface. It doesnt take a scientific study for one to see and understand the differences between real grass and turf surfaces. SiOWfa16: Science in Our World: Certainty and Controversy, Who Are The Best Wedding DJs In Los Angeles? Is grass or turf better for the environment? Public fields that are poorly maintained may have dangerous debris that can seriously injure other players. See, it really comes down to why we grow plants in the urban environment. Or what it looks like when its at its most full and lush time of the year. Players keep getting hurt when the New York Jets and New York Giants play at home at MetLife Stadium. The temperatures ranged from 90 degrees Fahrenheit on the grass surface to 110, 120 and 140 degrees on the artificial turf. This means that the more traction you get on the field or court, the higher the risk of injury. Summers are getting hotter, and people are watering their lawns more and . 2. Studies show that there is an increased chance of an injury to the anterior cruciate ligament. But i did alway like playing on grass when for the fact that if you ever fell you wouldnt get turf burn. Natural grass, if maintained properly, can last you a lifetime. The EPA acknowledged in July that synthetic turf contains toxic chemicals that can cause cancer. According to the lead author,Turf seems to be associated with increased injuries in the lower limbs. So, why do soccer players prefer grass over turf? Unlike grass, which involves far more maintenance (and therefore, comes at a higher cost), turf needs far less lawn care. The whole living plant or its leaves may be referred to as grass. Grass fields tend to be cooler than artificial turf. Artificial turf is eco-friendlier in that it does not contain any harmful chemicals hazardous to the environment or the health of people or pets. Football, mens lacrosse, rugby, and girls and boys soccer have higher rates of injury than other sports, according to research. There is evidence that exposure to benzene, carbon black, and lead, among other substances, can cause cancer, but proving this is more difficult than it seems. Much more durable than natural grass. So what makes one surface more dangerous to play on than another? Athletes are 58 percent more likely to sustain an injury on artificial turf. Areas that need further research to better understand and . Brenkus even talked about a study covering over 2,600 NFL games, saying players were 67% more likely to sprain their ACL on turf than on grass. The study found that there was slightly more ankle injury on artificial turf than on grass. According to a study done in 2007, impact forces on the body's bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments can be affected by turf surfaces being stiff. Since players often sacrifice their ball control on turf and hardened grass surfaces, theres a need for them to replace that lost traction. This can lead to more injuries, especially concussions. Its worse for players to fall on plastic grass than it is on natural grass. Even Kentucky Bluegrass is an import, according to the book Turf Wars . Please feel free to contact us for free lighting design & advice. (which was later withdrawn) due to the hardness of the turf and its potential to cause injury. Artificial grass is a better choice if you want to make your lawn look nicer. Unlike grass fields, turf requires less maintenance and care, which can reduce the cost to use such fields. Summers are getting hotter, and people are watering their lawns more and more to combat drought. The NFL's field inspections have come back clean, but the NFLPA says grass is safer than turf. "Grass" is the name of a type of plant. Also, the ball has a higher bounce on turf fields, which can catch players off guard. Mow turf grass only when it is dry, and only with sharp blades. Possibly the number 1 reason why soccer players prefer grass over turf is that, overall, playing on turf comes with a higher incidence of injury. Synthetic grass doesn't need water. The common thought is that turf has more traction than grass and therefore we will see more injuries on turf. Because it won't create muddy patches or holes and ruts, people are less likely to be hurt while playing on this surface. For comparison, grass can get about to 95-100 degrees while turf can get up to around 175-200 degrees, so it's not suitable in places like Miami and San Diego. There's also a danger of over-fertilization. There are studies showing that players on the surfaces have a higher rate of injuries to their knees. With the right gear, players can improve their performance and safety no matter where their comfort lies. And, as one would expect, each one has its benefits and disadvantages. This is because the weather does not have a direct impact on the appearance of the turf. The Sports Turf Management Association (STMA) found that artificial grass can cost as much as $23,000 per year to maintain as opposed to $14,000 for natural grass. Pads, helmets and other protective equipment helped the players safety. Artificial turf was found to have slightly more ankle injuries than grass. As a kid, turf fields seem much more professional because most kids play on grass fields that are poorly taken care of. can reduce the friction that sliding on these surfaces can cause. Of course in your situation you have to think what happens to that 27 metres of plastic afterwards. We are currently Serving NY, NJ, CT, PA, Long Island, Austin, TX, & Houston, TX, https://backyardsports.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/mbyslogotfnewtag.png, https://mybackyardsports.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/real-grass-vs-artificial-turf.jpg. A NASA-led study in 2005 found that. The shock pad is made of either rubber or polyethylene foam and is one inch thick. The majority of matches and soccer training from youth levels up to the international stage takes place on turf pitches. Comparing the safety of new and improved modern artificial turf fields to grass fields has become a back-and-forth debate over the past few years. In the summer, turf is too hot. To conclude, enjoy this videofrom The Comebacks of someone tearing his ACL, great scene. We thought wed take a deeper look at this subject and come up with a list of the good and bad for each. Other developments though, especially artificial turf, have proven themselves detrimental to the game and its participants. When its at its best, not only does it look good, but it feels good to walk in or even roll around in. At the moment it's not recyclable and it doesn't look like it will be any time soon. Instead of exposing your players (and your budget) to these avoidable risk factors, take advantage of the rebounding characteristics of turf and everyone wins. Although grass and turf fields might cause a similar rate of injuries, some scientists believe there is one feature of turf that makes it much more dangerous to play on. If you want to completely eliminate any residual mess, you should hose down the poop-affected area. Thing is, turf may be cheaper in the long run, but if you have ever played on grass, the . Do football players prefer grass or turf. I never though that the two different surfaces could cause such bad injuries but now after reading this I am remembering one of my good friends tearing his acl on a turf field. It will continue to stay green, neat, tidy, and look good all year round, whatever the weather. Football, mens lacrosse, rugby, and girls and boys soccer have higher rates of injury than other sports, according to research. For over a decade E Turf Pro has been a leading provider of synthetic turf grass in Los Angeles and Orange County. But if you keep care of your grass then more injuries are gonna happen on turf. The US Womens National Soccer Team is the most public in their dislike of artificial turf. The likelihood of sustaining those nasty turf burns is lower on grass because of its softer texture than on artificial turf. According to Mark Drakos,most scientists believe there are two features of turf and grass that affect injury rates: the coefficient of friction and the coefficient of restitution. There have been some very good advances in artificial turf and we are seeing more and more yards and playing fields using it. bajer says: February 14, 2021 at 10: . There were more injuries to the upper and lower limbs on artificial turf than there were on natural grass. Easy to clean up. Lower limbs, upper limbs, and torso injuries were more likely to occur on artificial turf. Turf also causes the soccer ball to bounce unnaturally high. 5. 10. Young players are more vulnerable to the long-term effects of head injuries, making. Stay in touch! Use a core aerator to loosen compacted soil and manage thatch buildup. By materials, artificial turf is divided into 3 main groups: polypropylene, polyamide, and polyethylene. But it's also worth having some perspective here. The majority of people thought playing on the turf would have a negative effect on their health. The purpose of the tire crumb is to act as soil, providing cushioning and traction. Additional Information on Artificial Turf. "Turf", also called "sod", is grass and the soil in which the grass is rooted. However, turf doesnt cut it for many teams- notably European and South American teams where ball movement and control is paramount. Grim. Also, although this may end up being nothing, I would rather avoid any potential risk of cancer if I had the chance. Mental Health Monday: PMDD and Me Beach Bum Poet. It is very strong and durable. On a grass surface, players encounter uneven sections, bumps and gradations, allowing them to slow down their pace where necessary. I wonder if getting turf burn then having those little rubber pieces in your open skin could cause cancer. Artificial grass can be installed in a lot of different places. This can increase the risk of injuries, particularly concussions. Turf has minimal cushion and is shallow, leading to more player injuries than artificial or natural grass. Hard impacts on these surfaces may increase the forces players endure and lead to more serious injuries. Artificial turf has come a long way, and the turf of today is much more like the real thing than ever before. Photograph: Lucy Nicholson/Reuters . Many consumer and industrial products contain PFCs. Building Your Best Basketball Court, at home! Artificial Sports Turf Then and Now The first artificial sports playing surface debuted on the infield of the Astrodome in 1966. For example, if it rains on a Wednesday, students may have to stay off the field to prevent damage before a Friday night football game. Artificial turf can hold up to heavy use and weather conditions and maintain its look and consistency. Although there is some debate around the differences in turf and grass safety, the general consensus is that turf increases players injury risk. Athletes playing on turf were three times more likely to suffer a PCL injury. For ornamental lawns that arent maintained frequently, such as picnic areas, the turf emits a significant amount of nitrous oxide, but this was mitigated by the amount of carbon dioxide taken up by the plants. Turfgrass Regulate Temperature . Athletes playing on turf were three times more likely to suffer a PCL injury. The amount of traffic your lawn gets from children or pets will most likely create bare or discolored areas or muddy zones from overuse. Artificial grass is made from the same type of plastic as household products. Unlike years past, turf grass made today have a more feel and look like natural grass. The toxins in artificial turf can cause health problems. It is much more convenient for the owner because it does not require much maintenance. While artificial turf may not live up to a top-notch natural pitch, some natural grass . However, assuming the weather is normal and both turf and grass fields are well taken care of, it is a tough choice. As you can see grass is better than turf because that turf leads to more injuries and has more traction so you can see more injuries on turf. Many consumer and industrial products contain PFCs. History of Artificial Turf. Resulting in a surface with better performance and shock absorption. For example, the 2015 Womens World Cup. In many cases, the turf was nothing but plastic carpeting made to look like grass. It's softer to the touch and offers more cushion for trips and falls than what you may imagine turf to be. Does playing on turf cause more injuries? There is more than a little maintenance with natural grass. Safety is the factor that raises eyebrows about the modern adoption of turf fields. , largely due to cleats failing to grip to the artificial grass as they do on natural grass. Artificial sports turf first gained attention in 1966, when AstroTurf - a short-pile synthetic turf - was installed in the newly-built Astrodome in Houston, Texas. Additionally, cleats have an easier time penetrating grass, allowing players to make quick cuts and directional changes without getting stuck in the surface (which could seriously injure ones joints). According to Hannah Rappleye, the crumb rubber in artificial turf is made up of bits of tire that contain carcinogens and chemicals that could cause cancer. 2. Buglifes Paul Hetherington says artificial turf is not an eco-friendly alternative. Studies show that artificial turf is more likely to cause injuries than natural grass is. During the summer months, the surface temperature on an artificial turf may be up to 60 degrees hotter than grass. So which one is better? Today's artificial turf has improved traction and is less abrasive than before. Also, a 2012 study showed that more college football players suffered ACL injuries on turf than on grass. Here are 3 great reasons why turf is more beneficial to the environment: 1. Anyone who's ever played on or felt artificial soccer turf will know that it's significantly more abrasive than real grass. Nevertheless, there is plenty of evidence, both scientific and anecdotal, to support the prevailing opinions about how these surfaces affect player performance. Turf Fields Save Water One of the more obvious benefits of turf is that turf doesn't require a consistent input of water. It wont last as long if you use it on a football field than if you use it in your backyard. Water is becoming a precious resource in some parts of the country. Turf is typically paid for at construction and requires little to no maintenance compared to grass fields throughout its lifespan. According to Justin Shaginaw, an athletic trainer for the US soccer federation, a 2011 study found a higher frequency of ankle injuries on turf for football, soccer, and rugby players. Plant materials provide so much more than just aesthetic value. Please feel free to contact us for free lighting design & advice. It also aids in the durability of the field. . Similarly, the friction between shoes and surfaces is higher on turf than on grass surfaces, which can affect rates of ankle and knee injuries, the authors of the study said. Although grass and turf fields might cause a similar rate of injuries, some scientists believe there is one feature of turf that makes it much more dangerous to play on. Another concern with artificial turf is the hardness of the turf surfaces. Sign up for our newsletter. Between the water, pesticides, gas and electricity to keep it in tip-top shape, you are not the environments friend. Uses 1 or 2 of the list for EX. Crumb rubber has tens of thousands of different tires from different brands, making it difficult for scientists to research the relationship between crumb rubber and cancer. Fertilizers are manufactured from non-renewable sources, such as fossil fuels. An average grass playing field uses about 50,000 gallons of water per week during the growing season." Cons. Synthetic grass will last many years but the normal shelf life can be up to 15 years. It is unfortunate that the Amherst School Committee supported synthetic turf despite knowledge of its dangerous chemicals, increased incidence of injuries to athletes and the fact that synthetic turf becomes 20 to 50 degrees hotter than natural grass in the sun, not an insignificant factor given the rising temperatures with climate change. Polypropylene is used for sports fields and lawns. While grass might seem like the natural choice, turf actually has many environmental benefits over grass. Read stats on turf vs grass and you'll see that turf causes a lot more injuries and is actually more expensive than grass IF it's maintained and sanitized. In many cases, players suffered serious turf burns on their arms and other exposed areas of their body. Health When using natural grass, schools and facilities have to use pesticides and other chemicals to maintain the look and health of the field throughout the year. Health concerns have not been a problem with artificial turf in the past. The initial costs to install artificial grass can be high, but are offset over time by the savings on water, gas, electricity and fertilizer, not to mention the cost of your time. Unlike grass where its natural unevenness allows for slower paces and more control, artificial turf almost always contributes to a faster pace. For the majority of artificial grass fields, man-made plastic blades of grass are used with recycled tire crumb. According to a new study investigating field type and concussions, synthetic turf creates a greater deceleration impact than natural grass. The temperature on the field surface can reach 200 degrees. But if you don't keep care of your grass then you might have more injuries on grass. Synthetic turf blades are short, so the ball moves much quicker- and at the expense of ball control. Artificial turf requires zero pesticides to keep it green and absolutely no gasoline or electricity is required to keep it at the ideal length. According to a study done in 2007, impact forces on the body's bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments can be affected by turf surfaces being stiff. The EPA acknowledged in July that synthetic turf contains toxic chemicals that can cause cancer. The other typical raw material for articial turf is . Preliminary life cycle assessment suggested that the environmental impacts of artificial turf fields were lower than equivalent grass fields. It has a glossy appearance that looks great in pictures and ads, although the purpose of artificial grass goes beyond aesthetics. When synthetic turf is replaced, the old pieces will likely end up in a landfill, which can lead to toxic water pollution. It's More Eco-Friendly. Hardness and Heat. Uses 3 or 4 of the list for EX and possibly one citation. Basically, the coefficient of restitution means how hard the surface is and is measured with a G-max value. With that said, its worth taking a deeper look at the grass versus turf debate, and how it affects soccer performance and more importantly, soccer safety. ( source) 1. Many people are surprised to learn that turf is often better for the environment than natural grass. One study found that the rate of. Grass needs watering or else it turns brown and can even die. Conclusion: Artificial turf is an important risk factor for specific knee ligament injuries in NCAA football. Save your time and money to growing your business or beautifying your house in other ways. The upfront cost of artificial turf will be the same as the cost of installation and maintenance of a natural grass lawn over time. The way the turf is makes it very hard to move. Which is better artificial turf or grass? There are pollutants in the storm water that can be harmful to aquatic life. The study found that there was slightly more ankle injury on artificial turf than on grass. Artificial turf is more likely to cause injuries to the upper and lower limbs than natural grass. a recommended add-on regardless of playing surface. Synthetic grass can easily be cleaned and raked like a real lawn. The artificial playing surface at Giants Stadium was the cause of the majority of injuries. Natural grass requires consistent fertilizing, mowing, and irrigating, whereas artificial grass can be maintained on a more casual basis. Chemicals are released when the turf degrades. The price for grass upkeep is probably more than artificial turf replacement and daily upkeep over time. Although there is some debate around the differences in turf and grass safety, the general consensus is that turf increases players injury risk. More than 70% of players prefer playing on natural grass and 15% prefer instuctive systems, but less than 10% of players have no preference at all. The first and most important reason is because of injuries: Stress on the ACL and other joints increases by 45%. In both soccer and american football, players are more likely to suffer from an injury called the ACL. On a 98-degree day, the temperature on the turf could rise to more than 120 degrees. In a few years, the distinction between injury rates on turf fields and on grass fields should be more clear. Another disadvantage of grass is reduced playing time. Mentions that artificial turf is a better conductor of heat than natural grass. Because artificial turf is flat and harder than real grass, the ball tends to bounce high when it hits the ground, catching you and your fellow players by surprise. It is now more difficult to differentiate between turf grass and natural grass. Mentions turf gets hotter than grass by absorbing more heat or energy. Nevertheless, with the information discovered up to this date, I would prefer grass for a few reasons. Artificial Turf: A Dangerous Playing Surface. Artificial turf is a green, eco-friendly solution for water conservation. You will not have to worry about the children getting muddy or wet after a short time. For teams that prefer a faster pace, playing on turf can be an advantage. Natural grass requires consistent fertilizing, mowing, and irrigating, whereas artificial grass can be maintained on a more casual basis. Artificial turf fields are more durable than grass and can be played on all the time, as well as giving youth sports organizations practice space they might otherwise not have, due to the problem of spring and fall rains. One of the disadvantages of using bermudagrass for turfs is the fact that it is a sun-loving plant. A grass infield will usually show wear and tear after only a few games, and unlike dirt, which you can fix on the fly, worn grass will not grow back during a busy softball season. This gives the field a more "grass-like" feel than traditional artificial turfs. By the time we are done, we should all know that lawns of green grass are not so green for the environment. For example, the 2015 Womens World Cup gave way to a gender discrimination case (which was later withdrawn) due to the hardness of the turf and its potential to cause injury. The biggest names in soccer such as Frank Lampard, Andrea Pirlo, Ibrahimovic, Didier Drogba and David Beckham have all refused to play on fake grass- its a preference of many players, both young and old. AstroTurf is a type of synthetic turf that is faster than grass and has less bounce. Today's turf is better than ever. Personally I'm more concerned where people remove grass and replace it with Astro turf. Pile height is the average height of the yarns measured from the top of the backing layer. Since cleats dont grip on turf surfaces as they do on grass, players may injure themselves making fast cuts due to the faster pace on turf. According to the SyntheticTurf Council, between 1,200 and 1,500 fields need to be replaced annually. The color of your grass can possibly be affected by UV exposure although there are protective measures for your fibers that you can ask about. absorb the forces of these impacts, providing extra protection for players. Does turf have more friction than grass? Turf Uses Less Water. Primarily, grass may cause more common injuries such as ankle sprains and muscle strains, but turf fields seem more likely to cause more serious injuries like ACL and MCL tears. When synthetic turf is replaced, the old pieces will likely end up in a landfill, which can lead to toxic water pollution. Why are Turf Fields Becoming more Common? As an ex athlete I used to love playing on turf fields, mostly because my home soccer fields was grass and wasnt always maintained. So there it is, grass fields win. Synthetic grass can easily be cleaned and raked like a real lawn. At the 2023 Womens World Cup, FIFA will allow natural grass fields, which may lead to natural grass adoption in lower levels of the sport. Despite of all the benefits of using bermuda grass for your turf, there are also several reasons why not to choose this grass species. Artificial grass doesnt get slippery when its wet and wont get wet after a rainstorm. That's not necessarily the case. The Washington State Department of Health studied the soccer players and found a cancer cluster. It resembles carpet more than natural grass, and it's commonly used on golf putting greens, school playgrounds, and more. The main benefit of turf is its cost-effectiveness. According to the lead author,Turf seems to be associated with increased injuries in the lower limbs. Athletes are 58 percent more likely to sustain an injury when playing on artificial turf. Safety is the factor that raises eyebrows about the modern adoption of turf fields. The benefits of artificial turf far outweigh those of natural grass. Because it is laid over either concrete or compacted earth, artificial turf is a harder surface than grass. Therefore, it might tolerate a bit of shade during the day, but it really thrives in full sun. In both soccer and american football, players are more likely to suffer from injuries to their knees on the field. For instance, a low coefficient of friction would cause people to slip a lot, whereas a high coefficient of friction creates a stickier surface. This isnt always the case, however. According to a study done in 2007, impact forces on the bodys bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments can be affected by turf surfaces being stiff. Natural playing surfaces cause less wear and tear than artificial ones. Many consumer and industrial products contain PFCs. Similarly, a higher coefficient of restitution will, in general, cause more injuries. On the other hand, both a 2010 study on college football players and a 2013 study on female college soccer players showed a higher frequency of all injuries on grass than on turf. Risk of Injury. The toxins in artificial turf can cause health problems. Artificial turf gets much hotter than grass. The infill will add weight and will also protect the backing from too much UV exposure. Chemicals are released when turf degrades. Does playing on turf cause more injuries? (888) 553-8873 info@eturfpro.com . Wearing the wrong shoes often led to serious knee and ankle injuries. It is not possible to say yes. Creating heat islands. You get some decent soil, some grass seed and some water and youre ready to go. see grass is better than turf because that turf leads to more injuries and has more traction so you can see more injuries on turf. Artificial grass is made from the same type of plastic as household products. From mowing, to watering, to fertilizing, you are putting time, effort and money into the upkeep of your lawn. On a daily basis, we come into contact with these materials and they have not been proven to be harmful. But if you don't keep care of your grass then you might have more injuries on grass. People might be wary of using artificial materials. Artificial turf is a more difficult surface to play on than grass. Sport products are usually infilled up to 70 % of the pile height. Therefore, surfaces with higher coefficients of friction cause more ACL injuries because there is not as much give on the turf or grass. They help improve water and air quality, reduce temperatures, reduce storm water runoff, and provide habitats for animals, insects, bees, and birds. 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