I just spoke to my physio about this whilst she was putting my compression boots on (yes, I am injured again 
). She works with professional football clubs and says the physios there hate the 3G pitches and advise the managers and coaches to only use them when training or playing on grass isn't an option. She said there is clear evidence that there are many more cases of shin splints these days, especially in youth players, when they regularly play and train on 3G.
Whilst I agree the modern top level pitches are firmer than they used to be, there is still way more give in them than even the very best 3G. I've been lucky enough to referee at both Wembley and The Emirates, and it was like running on air, the grass is so lush you have so much cushioning. Equally I've refereed on Hackney Marshes where you never know where the next divot is coming from.
). She works with professional football clubs and says the physios there hate the 3G pitches and advise the managers and coaches to only use them when training or playing on grass isn't an option. She said there is clear evidence that there are many more cases of shin splints these days, especially in youth players, when they regularly play and train on 3G.Whilst I agree the modern top level pitches are firmer than they used to be, there is still way more give in them than even the very best 3G. I've been lucky enough to referee at both Wembley and The Emirates, and it was like running on air, the grass is so lush you have so much cushioning. Equally I've refereed on Hackney Marshes where you never know where the next divot is coming from.
