Yoga Mats - Benefits and Features

Yoga mats are specially designed mats used by practitioners to provide a cushioned and non-slip surface during yoga and other floor exercises. They offer comfort, stability, and hygiene during yoga sessions.
Category
Equipment
Where to get
Available for purchase in sports stores, yoga studios, and online retailers.
Applicable for
Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Dr. Helena Rodriguez

Yoga Mats FAQ


Image credit: protekgr.com

What are the best yoga mats?

The best yoga mats provide a supportive and grippy surface to help you feel stable and grounded during your practice. We've tested yoga mats from popular brands, including Lululemon, Liforme, Manduka and more. As well as standard PVC mats, our selection includes a thick yoga mat, yoga mat in a bag and travel yoga mat. See how they compare.

Why do you need a yoga mat?

Yoga mats are an incredibly versatile piece of fitness equipment and an integral part of many home workout routines. Whether you’re going to a local studio or practicing at home, having a quality yoga mat that provides the right amount of grip and support is critically important.

Are there different types of yoga mats?

Because everyone has different preferences for a yoga mat, the fiber scientists and wellness experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute paired up with yoga instructors and other fitness pros to evaluate over 25 different yoga mats and exercise mats for every practice, whether you prefer Bikram hot yoga, Vinyasa flow or even pilates and barre.

How big is a yoga mat?

Yoga mats vary in thickness, composition, surface texture, "stickiness" or grip, and weight, as well as price. They are normally around 6 feet (180 cm) long and have a width of 2 feet (61 cm).

What is the difference between a yoga mat and an exercise mat?

Yoga mats also have a medium firmness for support, comfort, and grounding. Meanwhile, an exercise mat tends to be much thicker and is either very firm to support heavy gym equipment, like a rowing machine, or very cushioned to keep you comfortable during bodyweight exercises.

Yoga Mats References

If you want to know more about Yoga Mats, consider exploring links below:

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