Exercise mats offer a comfortable way to engage in exercise. For some exercises that require floor work, they are often looked at as being mandatory. An exercise mat allows for us to engage in these floor exercises with the support we need to ensure moves are executed safely. Exercise mats can prevent injury, provide cushion, and can assist in providing a clean and sanitary experience for your workout. Not sure what type of mat you need for your workout? Here we will take a look at 4 different types.
Yoga Mats
Using a yoga mat is a smart choice when practicing yoga. It not only allows for a comfortable experience, but also helps work towards mastery of the many different positions within the yoga practice. This is because the mat is non-slip and is cushioned to help with support. Typically a very thin mat, it comes in a variety of different materials each having its own benefit for the specific yoga you are looking to practice. For example, bikram yoga requires a mat made from rubber or PVC for anti-slip while yin yoga utilizes a mat made from foam material for extra cushioning.
Check out these ecofriendly yoga mats
Pilates Mats
Longer and thicker than the yoga mat, pilates mats are designed to help the body move through various positions with ease. These mats provide a firm grip to the floor and have a smooth surface on top. Made with rubber, these mats are known for being hygienic as they are easy to clean.
Here is a top selling Pilates mat
General Purpose Exercise Mats
If you are a frequent gym-goer, then you will probably recognize this type of mat. A general purpose exercise mat is designed for support, is padded, and is often short and thick in presentation. Extra thick mats are great for workouts such as planks and crunches. There are a few different kinds based on exercise needs. The most popular type is one made of vinyl and foam as it is able to handle frequent use and is easy to clean.
This is an excellent choice for a general purpose exercise mat
Stretch Mats
A stretch mat is self-explanatory. It is often used at the end of a workout, and can be helpful to have on hand for light floor exercises. A stretch mat provides comfort. It is considered a very durable and versatile mat. It is made up of high density chip foam core and PVC. This type of mat can withstand repeated use and is considered a staple for the gym environment.
