A few considerations have to be done when choosing from an array of yoga mats. Nowadays, they’re not created the same. It’s best to give shopping for one much time and thought. After all, you need the best one to provide all the support your body needs during a session.
Knowing how they’re different from those used for pilates is necessary. The mat used for pilates generally is thicker to give better cushioning to the body. For instance, advanced pilates sessions may require for the individual to do a body roll. For such to be done comfortably, the spine needs some support. Likewise, it’s not as sticky as those used for yoga. But they’re basically of the same size and use.
Now that you know the key differences, it’s time to proceed with choosing the materials they’re made of. For a newbie, it’s always advisable to start out with an affordable one. As you move to advanced levels, then you can switch to something which is more hard-wearing and expensive. Your budget should be put into consideration when shopping for one.
Of all the ones available these days, the most affordable are the standard ones that are sticky. Usually of PVC, these synthetic ones are readily available at most department stores. There are people who have just signed up for a session and immediately choose a costly mat. But after a session or two, they give up thinking it’s not the type of workout for them. And the mat is left to collect dust. That’s why it’s best for a beginner to go for an inexpensive one at first.
If you like something out of natural materials, you may go for something out of either cork or jute. Of course it’s going to be more expensive than a synthetic counterpart. However, there’s no denying its quality and beauty. If you attend a session only once or twice per week, it’s perfectly fine to go for such. Otherwise, it can easily get smelly or break apart. That’s because cork and jute are porous materials.
There are many who like to go for those out of rubber. The price tags they carry are basically the same as jute and cork counterparts. But compared to them, rubber ones definitely are more durable. But these days, not all rubber ones are naturally made. There are those which are manufactured from synthetic rubber. If your skin has allergic reaction to latex, going for rubber mats isn’t a good idea.
Regardless of the material they’re made of, regular cleaning is essential. Some of those made from synthetic materials may be cleaned with a washing machine. But it’s important to read the label for further cleaning instructions. Those out of natural materials are best cleaned soaked in soapy water. Remember to have them completely dried before rolling.
You should try to test out some yoga mats which can be found at your health club before you buy one. Doing so will enable you to experience firsthand how it’s like using them. Your instructor may even recommend a brand or store where it’s best to get yours.
Mandy Valentine is a yoga practitioner and the owner of a best yoga mats blog. She writes many yoga articles and yoga mat reviews for Manduka yoga mats, Aurorae yoga mats, Yogitoes yoga mats, and YogaAccesories yoga mats.
Related posts: