How to choose the best exercise mat for your workout

Whether you’re doing toning exercises in a butts & guts class or stretching in a Pilates session, you’ll need the right mat. Which one to choose? Read our tips on how to choose your fitness mat.

When choosing a fitness mat or exercise mat, the most important thing to think about is the type of activity you plan to do on it and how often you train. There are four main criteria to consider: comfort, size, durability and hygiene.

Comfort

The level of comfort you will need for your fitness mat will depend primarily on how often you train. The more often you train, the more comfort – i.e. the thickness of the mat – you will need.

The thickness of your mat will also depend on the type of activities you need it for. For example, if you do gentle exercises such as stretching or Pilates, during which you will be barefoot and often in contact with the ground, you should opt for a soft mat that is at least 6 mm thick. It will be more comfortable and protect you from the ground.

If you are looking for mats for a sports centre, their use is increased and the thickness should be thicker, at least 15mm. This way, you will guarantee maximum comfort regardless of the number of daily uses of the mats.

Sizes

The size of your fitness mat is also important for a comfortable workout.

Obviously, you’ll need to consider your height when choosing a mat, but you’ll also need to consider the activities you’ll be doing. If you do exercises where you’re frequently in contact with the ground, you’ll want a longer mat than if you’re sitting or kneeling.

At Pavigym we offer three sizes of mats: 100cm, 140cm and 160cm. Our sizes will suit the needs of any user or fitness club, so choose the one you need!

Durability

The frequency with which you train will also influence the durability of your mat.

If you use your fitness mat regularly or intensively, choose one with a protective coating to improve its resistance to wear and tear from sports shoes.

On the other hand, if the mats are to be used in a gym, it is important to choose good quality mats to prevent them from wearing out after a few uses. Keep in mind that worn out mats make a bad impression on users and can even break.

Hygiene

Whether the mat is for personal use or shared use, it is important to maintain a good level of hygiene. Keep in mind that you will be in contact with the surface, lying face up or face down, so it is essential that it is waterproof and does not absorb sweat or other liquids.

Our Comfortgym mats are bacteriostatic and fungicidal, so they prevent the appearance and spread of viruses and bacteria.