Addressing Floorball Myths: Protecting Gym Floors

Finding a gym floor to play floorball can sometimes be a challenge, especially if you're navigating misconceptions about the sport. One common concern from gym owners and managers is the belief that floorball sticks might damage the playing surface. This worry is understandable—gym floors are expensive to install and maintain, and protecting them is a top priority. However, this concern is unfounded.

The reality is that floorball is specifically designed for indoor play, including on sensitive surfaces like wood gym floors. Around the world, floorball is played on thousands of gym floors without causing any reported damage. This is largely due to the way the sport’s equipment is engineered, ensuring it remains safe for indoor use.

Why Floorball is Floor-Friendly

The International Floorball Federation (IFF) has strict regulations regarding the materials used in floorball sticks and blades. According to their material guidelines:

"The stick blade main construction and outermost surface is to be produced in thermoplastic materials without fillers or reinforcements such as e.g. milled fibers. This is to ensure that the blade does not damage the playing surface."

Unlike other hockey-style games, floorball prioritizes surface safety. The blade of the stick is made of smooth, lightweight thermoplastic materials designed to minimize friction and wear on gym floors.

Building Confidence with Gym Owners

If you're introducing floorball to a new gym, here are some ways to address concerns:

1. Highlight Global Use: Mention that floorball is played worldwide on wooden and synthetic gym floors without causing damage.
2. Offer Demonstrations: Invite gym managers to see the equipment and observe a game to ease concerns.
3. Point to the Facts: Share IFF regulations and other resources to back up your claims.

By educating gym owners and managers about the sport’s safe design and its global track record, you can help break down barriers and find a space to grow the game in your community. Floorball is not just fun and accessible—it’s gym-friendly, too!