Testing athletics tracks is important for several reasons. It ensures that the track is safe for athletes to use, reducing the risk of injuries from slips, falls, or other accidents. It also helps maintain consistent performance, which is critical for professional athletics competitions. Regular testing can help identify issues early. 

The durability and sustainability of the athletics track depends on the construction, materials, installation and maintenance. Labosport helps with new track construction, renovations, extensions, and conversions from cinder to all-weather surfaces. We provide material identification, safety and performance tests, technical audits and diagnosis, and final track certification. We can advise you at the key stages of your new-build or your renovation project to ensure full compliance at the completion of different stages.

There are different ways to test an athletics track, but some of the most common methods include:

Surface Hardness Testing
This involves using a specialized instrument to measure the hardness of the track surface. Surface hardness testing helps ensure that the surface is not too hard or too soft, which can impact performance and safety.

Surface Evenness Testing
This involves using a specialized instrument to measure the evenness of the surface. Surface evenness testing helps ensure that the surface is level and free from any undulations that could impact performance or safety.

Friction Testing
This involves measuring the amount of friction that a runner experiences when moving across the surface. Friction testing helps ensure that the surface provides adequate traction and reduces the risk of slips and falls.

Energy Restitution Testing
This involves measuring the amount of energy that is returned to a runner during each stride. Energy restitution testing helps ensure that the surface is consistent and predictable, allowing athletes to optimize their performance.

NORMS AND STANDARDS
The governing body for athletics track at the international level is the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), which was founded in 1912. The IAAF is responsible for setting the rules and regulations for athletics track events, as well as organizing major international competitions such as the World Championships in Athletics and the Olympic Games.

At the national level, each country typically has its own athletics federation or governing body that is responsible for organizing and promoting the sport within that country. Some examples of national athletics federations include USA Track & Field (USATF) in the United States, Athletics Canada, and the British Athletics Federation.

Like any sports facility, a synthetic track, as well as having a suitably constructed sub-base, has to comply with the existing norms. Your facility may fall under one of the following standards:

World Athletic: Performance specification for synthetic surfaces
EN 14877: Synthetic surfaces for outdoor sports Areas – Specification
ASTM F2157-09: Standard Specification for Synthetic Surfaced Running Tracks

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About Athletics
Athletics is the sport of competitive running, jumping, and throwing events that are held on an outdoor track. The track is typically an oval-shaped field with marked lanes for the various running events and areas for the other field events. The track is usually made of a synthetic surface, such as rubber or polyurethane, which provides good traction and reduce impact on the athletes’ bodies. Track events include short, middle and long-distance running and hurdle races. Other events include the long jump, high jump, triple jump, shot put, discus throw, javelin throw, and hammer throw.

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There are several different types of equestrian surfaces, including:

1. Sand: Sand is a popular material for equestrian surfaces, as it provides good footing and is relatively easy to maintain.
2. Fibers: Fibers, such as wood shavings or rubber, can be used to create a surface that is similar to sand but more durable.
3. Synthetic turf: Synthetic turf, made of synthetic fibers, can be used to create a surface that looks and feels like natural grass.
4. Natural grass: Natural grass can also be used as an equestrian surface, although it may require more maintenance and may not be as durable as other options.

Equestrian surfaces should be carefully chosen and maintained in order to provide a safe and comfortable environment for the horses.

Equestrian sports, such as show jumping or track racing, require the surface to be well designed and managed in order to minimize the risk of injury to the horse.

Labosport works alongside bio mechanics experts from around the world to maintain its unique expertise in equestrian surfaces. Our surfaces testing systems are based on the latest scientific research.

Labosport uses equipment that reproduces the impact of a hoof upon contact with the ground, accurately accounting for angle, speed and energy. Special devices calculate the response of the surface using several sensors to assess the hardness, flexibility, adherence and homogeneity of the surface, as felt by both the horse and rider.

There are 4 key parameters to consider on an equestrian surface:

• Firmness – This is the hardness of the top layer, which represents how the shock wave forces are distributed during landings.
• Cushioning – This shows the hardness of the under layer​, which offers protection to the horse.
• Energy Restitution – This refers to the resilience of the surface, specifically its ability to return to its original form.
• Grip – This is important because it aids in absorbing shock during the landing phase and provides support and traction during push off and turns.

We test these properties on all kinds of surfaces.

• For training, a floor must provide enough comfort for the horse to freely and fully indulge, but also a surface that offers protection. ​
• For CSO events, a floor should favor performance. ​
• For galloping tracks, a loose and a deep surface is best.

Labosport tests surfaces for every parameter:

• impact toughness
• flexibility
• adhesion
• homogeneity
• moisture behavior

On synthetic soil, additional laboratory analysis ensures the composition (sand, fibers, paraffin) is perfectly adapted for use and the environment (dust and volatile emissions).

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In a hybrid sports turf system, the synthetic fibers are mixed with natural grass, creating a surface that looks and feels like natural grass but has the durability and low maintenance of artificial turf. The synthetic fibers help to support the natural grass, making it more resistant to wear and tear. The natural grass also helps to cool the surface and improve the overall playability of the field.

Hybrid sports turf can be a good option for sports facilities that want to provide a high-quality playing surface while also reducing the amount of maintenance required. It can also be a more environmentally friendly option than traditional artificial turf, as it requires less water and fewer chemicals to maintain.

Installing hybrid sports turf involves several steps:

1. Site preparation: The first step in installing hybrid sports turf is to prepare the site. This may include grading the surface, installing a base layer, and installing a drainage system.
2. Laying the turf: Next, the turf itself is laid on top of the prepared surface. The turf consists of a layer of synthetic fibers mixed with natural grass.
3. Seaming the turf: If the area being covered by the turf is large, the turf may need to be seamed together to create a seamless surface. This is typically done by heat welding the edges of the turf together.
4. Infilling the turf: Some hybrid sports turf systems include an infill layer, which is made of a material such as sand or rubber granules. The infill helps to hold the turf fibers upright, as well as providing additional cushioning and support for athletes.
5. Finishing touches: Once the turf is installed, any final touches, such as painting lines or installing goalposts, can be completed. The surface should then be ready for use.

Installing hybrid sports turf typically requires specialized equipment and trained professionals. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and best practices when installing the turf to ensure that it is installed properly and will provide a safe and high-quality playing surface.

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Several factors are taken into consideration when testing natural turf, including its overall quality, resilience, and ability to withstand the rigors of play. Some common tests include wear resistance and performance under different conditions. Other tests include density, surface hardness, and the presence of any contaminants or other substances.

The installation of natural sports turf typically involves site preparation to create a smooth and level surface, followed by the installation of a drainage system and a layer of topsoil. The soil is then sodded or seeded and given ample water. At this point, fertilizer programs can be introduced to provide the grass with adequate nutrients. Maintenance is key to keeping natural turf in good condition. Poor maintenance can lead to surface failure, unsafe playing conditions, or pests and diseases.

Sports agronomists use several techniques and a variety of tests to evaluate turfgrass. Soil samples are collected and analyized to assess a wide range of factors, including grass quality, performance, irrigation, and drainage. Tests include factors such as color, wear tolerance, distribution, density and overall health.

Sports agronomists have access to special equipment designed to provide the most accurate and reliable assessments.

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Safety
Its needs to be safe for children to play on. Testing ensures that the surface is capable of absorbing the impact of a fall, reducing the risk of injury.

Compliance
Different countries have different safety standards for it. Testing ensures that the surface meets the required safety standards in a specific country.

Maintenance
Regular testing helps to identify wear and tear on the surface, allowing for maintenance to be carried out promptly. This helps to ensure that the surface remains safe and functional for children to play on.

Liability
Playground operators and owners have a legal duty of care to ensure that the playground surface is safe for children. Testing helps to minimize the risk of accidents and can provide evidence that due diligence has been carried out.

Innovation
Testing can also help to drive innovation in playground surface design, leading to the development of new, safer, and more durable surfaces that can better protect children from injuries.

The governing bodies of playground surfaces can vary by country, region, or municipality. In the United States, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) sets safety standards for playground equipment and surfacing. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) also provides guidelines and testing standards for playground surfaces.

In the United Kingdom, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides guidelines and sets standards for playground surfaces.

The European Committee for Standardization (CEN) provides standards for playground surfaces for use in the European Union.

In Australia, the Australian Standard for Playground Surfacing (AS 4685) sets out requirements for playground surfaces.

These are just a few examples of the governing bodies that regulate and set standards for it. It’s important to note that these standards and guidelines may differ based on the location and jurisdiction of the playground.

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Understanding the Differences Between 2G, 3G, and 4G Synthetic Turf Pitches

A 2G sports pitch is a type of artificial turf that is primarily used for sports such as hockey. It comprises a sand-based foundation with short synthetic grass, with a pile height of usually less than 24 mm. 2G pitches began appearing at sports venues in the early 90s and it is the oldest type of artificial turf.

A 3G sports pitch refers to the third generation of synthetic turf characterized by a combination of synthetic grass fibers, sand, and rubber granules used as infill. The sand provides stability to the pitch, while the rubber granules give the surface a more natural feel and help to reduce the risk of injuries. The pile height of a 3G pitch is around 40mm to 65mm, and the surface is suitable for a range of sports. 3G pitches provide a consistent playing surface in all weather.

A 4G sports pitch is a type of synthetic turf that is denser than a 3G pitch and does not require infill materials for performance and stabilization. Compared to natural grass pitches, 4G pitches can be more expensive to install, but they have advantages such as durability and the ability to withstand heavy use.

There are several layers to an artificial sports surface:

• Base layer: This layer is made of a material such as crushed stone or gravel, and it provides a stable foundation for the turf.
• Drainage layer: This layer helps to remove excess water from the surface, ensuring that the turf stays dry and playable.
• Shock pad layer: This layer is made of a cushioned material, such as foam, and it helps to reduce the impact on athletes’ joints when they run and play on the turf.
• Turf layer: This is the top layer of the artificial sports surface, and it consists of synthetic fibers that are designed to mimic the appearance and feel of natural grass.
• Infill: Some artificial turf systems include an infill layer, which is made of a material such as sand or rubber granules. The infill helps to hold the turf fibers upright, as well as providing additional cushioning and support for athletes.

Artificial turf sports surfaces are used all around the world. These fields can withstand intensive use despite challenging weather or other geographical factors. Manufactured sports surfaces can have significant differences in quality, and there are many systems to select from.

Sports federations have made sports field testing mandatory; a certified field is the best way to ensure the quality and safety of synthetic surfaces.

The condition and performance of an artificial turf is validated at various stages. Surfaces are assessed extensively in a lab and, once installed, will be subjected to additional field tests. The surface will need to be tested regularly to ensure conformity to required specifications.

The testing and certification process can be part of the requirements for hosting a specific competition or simply a way to establish a field is fit for purpose and maintained correctly.

Labosport can test all artificial sports surfaces to national and international standards, including, but not limited to:

• EN, ISO, ASTM, NFP, BS, CSA (link to a standards page)
• FIFA, World Rugby, World Athletics, FIH, ITF, AFL, FEI, etc. (link to National/International governing bodies page

Tests can assess the following:

• Surface-Ball Interaction
• Surface-Player Interaction
• Material Quality Assessment
• Build Quality Assessment

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While there are different ways to test a tennis surface, the most common methods include:

Slip Resistance Testing
This involves measuring the amount of friction that a player experiences when moving across the surface. Slip resistance testing helps ensure that the surface provides adequate traction and reduces the risk of slips and falls.

Ball Bounce Testing
This involves dropping a standard tennis ball onto the surface from a standard height and measuring the height of the rebound. Ball bounce testing helps ensure that the surface has consistent and predictable ball bounce characteristics.

Surface Hardness Testing
This involves using a specialized instrument to measure the hardness of the surface. Surface hardness testing helps ensure that the surface is not too hard or too soft, which can impact playability and safety.

Surface Evenness Testing
This involves using a specialized instrument to measure the evenness of the surface. Surface evenness testing helps ensure that the surface is level and free from any undulations that could impact playability or safety.

Governing Bodies
Governing bodies of tennis play a crucial role in the development and regulation of the sport. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) is the international governing body, responsible for setting the rules and standards for the game and organizing international tournaments and competitions. National federations, on the other hand, oversee the game within their respective countries and work to promote the growth of tennis at the domestic level. Together, these organizations work to ensure that tennis remains a safe and fair sport for players and fans alike.

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ABOUT THE GAME
Tennis is a racquet sport played on a rectangular court with a net dividing the court in half. The game is played with a small, hollow rubber ball and specialized rackets, and players use quick reflexes and strategic thinking to hit the ball back and forth, trying to outmaneuver their opponent and score points. The object of the game is to hit the ball in such a way that the opponent is unable to return it, and the player with the most points at the end of the game is declared the winner.

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TrackMark is the UK Athlethics’ quality assurance and safety scheme for track and field facilities. Only facilities that are working toward or have completed TrackMark accreditation qualify for a competition license.

Labosport is a UK Athletics recognised facility test house capable of assisting facilities with obtaining the relevant TrackMark accreditation. It is the only test house able to accommodate the necessary testing for Units 1, 2, 5, 6 and cage pull tests, therefore providing a one-stop shop for TrackMark Accreditation.

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