Amidst the pandemic, most people have switched to a home gym workout that only requires you to purchase the best home gym equipment online or from your nearest store. However, the most essential gym equipment among every piece of equipment is a yoga mat. A yoga mat is a faithful companion that helps you in doing yoga. It is a great tool that is easily affordable and is also portable at the same time. Having your own yoga mat is important but selecting the most suitable type of yoga mat is more important before buying.
The Thickness of the Mat
A standard yoga mat is usually ? inch thick and is suitable for people belonging to all age groups. For a very slim person, a thin yoga mat is not suitable. For yoga positions that require you to lie down, a slim person might find that uncomfortable due to the hard surface that will be causing pain in the hip region. For such people, a thick mat is advisable. This advice is also helpful for people who have sensitive joints.
It is important to remember, that though a thicker mat will make it hard to balance right in the standing postures, like Tree Pose, the added cushion will avoid the unintentional movement by making the mat bulkier thereby reducing the risk of falling down.
Consider the Texture
Smooth mats can be really helpful if you choose the right one. Some of them might be a bit sticky but that is important to create traction and protect you from sliding around. Smooth mats with great traction are good for yoga postures that require more powerful movement. It is advisable to avoid completely smooth PVC mats since they are way too slippery and that can be dangerous. For elderly people, a natural rubber mat is recommended for all exercises.
Mats that have textured patterns provide a good grip and are preferred for people who sweat a lot as they are less slippery. A cotton or jute yoga mat is also preferable but there are also rubber mats that come with a great texture. These mats are ideal for more soft and gentle types of yoga.
Practice Location
The place where you’re doing yoga is a matter of concern. If you practice at home, then you don’t require a very heavy mat. But if you’re a beginner then you should definitely go for a thicker and bulkier mat because it will be more comfortable for you to start with major yoga postures that require a fair amount of stiffness with the ground. However, if you practice outdoors or if you are more of a travel person then a lightweight yoga mat could be preferred over a heavy yoga mat as it is easily portable.
Length of the Mat
A yoga mat should be of a standard length. While selecting a yoga mat, you have to make sure that when you do yoga positions that allow you to lie down on the floor, the mat should be of an appropriate length to cover your entire body.
Material of the Mat
Selecting the best material yoga mat is very important as it defines its texture, strength, durability, stickiness, and comfort. These days Yoga mats made of PVC are mostly in the sale as they are helpful in maintaining grip and last long. These are standard yoga mats used by the majority of fitness enthusiasts. Customers are also advised never to choose any yoga mat made of allergic material. One can also buy an eco-friendly mat made of cotton or jute.
Range of Price
The cost of a yoga mat varies depending upon its material, shape and texture, color, design, and style. Different brands have their own fixed prices. Mainly the basic plain solid color (1/8 inch) yoga mat comes at low prices as compared to other yoga mats of different material and pattern which may be a bit high priced. Eye-catchy logos, attractive patterns, antibacterial treating fabric, and other factors add more to its price.
???????
Color and Pattern
The color, design, and style of your yoga mat reflect your personality to an extent. You should choose a mat that best excites your mood for an everyday workout session. The pattern and design have a huge range from basic plain to colorful and attractive print.
Type of Yoga
If you’re practicing Hatha yoga or Yin yoga, then a standard-size yoga mat is suitable for you. For such yoga asanas, the quality of the mat really doesn’t matter and you can buy any quality yoga mat at an affordable price. Since these yoga positions do not give out much sweat, an average mat will provide enough traction for you to practice comfortably. However, if you practice Ashtanga, Vinyasa, or Hot Yoga, then you’ll need a mat that will absorb your sweat and will provide super-strong traction.
After considering all the above factors, an individual will not have any doubt in buying the best yoga mat for a perfect home gym workout.
