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Working out at home has become the new normal and many of us are trying to modify our workout equipment to fit with our space. One of the most important items you’ll need to complete (or start) your make-shift home gym is an exercise mat, but with the large variety of options out there, the search for the right one might get a bit intimidating.
The best exercise mats (also known interchangeably as workout mats or fitness mats) are designed to give you
You have to consider size, material, durability, price and more. Not to mention, you have to consider if your mat can withstand consistent heavy-duty workouts over time. To help you out, we’ve done the research. Keep on reading for everything you need to know before you invest in a workout mat of your own.
What Makes a Good Exercise Mat?
There are a number of factors to consider when shopping for the best exercise mats online. Here’s what to look for to find the best workout mat for you.
Size: Are you planning to do yoga or core exercises while lying flat on the mat or do you work out standing up? How much floor space do you have to place your new mat? These are all questions to consider before you purchase your new exercise mat. If you live in a studio or are low on space and need something that can be stored easily, pick a regular 68 to 72-inch (around 5.6-feet) mat. If you’ve got a dedicated home gym and want a large multifunctional mat that can even hold your equipment, choose one of our ultra-wide options.
Material: Exercise mats can be made out of PVC, rubber, foam and even cloth. Rubber mats are more likely to stay in place but might not be as plush as a PVC mat. They’re both great though, sot it ultimately comes down to what you plan on using this mat for. For high-intensity workouts, it might be important to have a workout mat that stays in place, likely made out of rubber, for instance.
Thickness: The best exercise mats can be as thin as 0.125 inches (3.175 mm) or as thick as an inch. Most exercise mats are usually 0.5 inches thick. It all depends on how much support you think your joints need. I personally use a one-inch-thick fitness mat to support my lower back during core exercises but if you have a floor that’s usually carpeted or a dedicated gym floor, you can buy a mat that’s a lot thinner — even one that’s 0.125 inches thick.
Durability: PVC mats are extremely durable and generally easy to clean. They also have the most ‘give’ and can last a long time. But, they might not be the best option if you get very sweaty during your workouts. In that case, you’ll want a rubber or jute fitness mat. They’re more earth-friendly, and are also exceptionally durable, as long as you regularly clean them. All in all, a well-used exercise mat should last you a year on average.
