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Rug Anatomy 101

Exercise and Yoga Mats - Buyers Guide

by Uzair Qureshi 01 Apr 2023 0 Comments

As a writer, it's rather heartbreaking when the name tells the entire story. Warm-ups, yoga, and low-to-mild impact exercises are all made easier with an exercise mat. How does it accomplish this? An exercise mat has a dual purpose: it provides traction on the hard floor while also providing a cushion for the body. Yoga towels can also be used during yoga practice. Anyone could write an entire story about how tough it is to find the ideal area to work out. These special-purpose mats can be used to transform any empty dwelling space into a personnel exercise zone and a home gym. Let's take a closer look at the problem. Why do people choose these carefully created various sorts of mats to traditional carpets or tiles? For the first time, tiles are slick, and rugs provide too much traction. You may have suggestions for preventing rugs from slipping. The former will burn your skin off, but the latter will not help you workout at all. Why not, because the mats don't burn your pockets? Do you, however, require an exercise mat? Yes, absolutely! However, there are different options available to you. What should I use as an exercise mat in this case? Towels, softer textiles, woven blankets, and even socks and gloves are all good options if you want to save money. In general, anything that provides traction can be used without burning your skin or injuring your joints! While you are going to join fitness, you will find many sorts of workouts. I won't blame you if you mix up an exercise mat with a yoga mat. Both are long-lasting and frequently made from PVC. Yoga mats, on the other hand, are often thinner than those used for exercise. Understandably, thicker exercise mats are more substantial and hence provide less mobility. It may be 1 to 2 inches long. A thick yoga mat, on the other hand, won't be more than 1/8 inch thick (in most cases). A travel yoga mat can be as thin and light as 1/16 inch, making it extremely lightweight and portable.

Exercise and Yoga Mats - Buyers Guide

Things To Consider When Buying An Exercise/Yoga Mat

It's easy to become perplexed while shopping for a workout mat with so much variation on show. Each of us would be looking for the greatest yoga mat or fitness mat. The term "best" could be subjective and solely dependent on the needs of the user. So, how do you select an exercise mat? There are various items to consider, and it can also be used as a buying guide.

Thickness

We already know how significant breadth is in distinguishing exercise mats from hot yoga mats depending on depth. The thicker your carpet needs to be, the more intense your workout will be. Exercise mats are typically 1 to 2 inches tall. The best yoga mats, on the other hand, are usually thinner. They can range in size from 1/16 inch to 1/4 inch. In this case, how do you pick a yoga mat? That is a personal opinion! You should choose a thicker one if you desire extra comfort throughout your yoga practice. The type of yoga you practice has an impact as well. A mat with additional traction is required for more complex maneuvers. Is there an optimal thickness for an exercise mat in general? That, too, is a matter of opinion. However, although a thicker mat is better for seated postures, a thinner mat may be better for standing poses. One of the better thicknesses is 4mm! Heat yoga, for example, necessitates the use of a specifically developed mat. For those unfamiliar with heat yoga, it is a type of yoga that is conducted in a heated atmosphere. Unless you practice yoga in your home, you should be careful with the thickness and weight because it limits mobility and is not very eco-friendly.

Thickness

Length

Do you have problems lying down anywhere since you're a huge guy? All you'll need is a large exercise mat to get started! The length of a regular yoga mat is 68 inches. If you're taller than 5.6 feet, you might want to choose a piece that's super-stretched. Overall, think about your requirements!

Special Needs

To further on the subject of requirements, do you have any unique requirements that you must meet? Yoga mats have a lot more of this than fitness mats. Do you have problems with your joints? In that situation, a padded mat can be appealing. If you've had knee or hip alignment surgery, you might picture one as well. When it comes to padded yoga mats, they are far more comfortable than regular ones. On the other hand, they're never really clean.

Special Needs

Motility

This is a subset of the three factors discussed above. You must make sure that the size of your mat is small enough to be portable. The more dense the carpet, the more difficult it is to move. The tighter it is to roll, the longer it is. If you work out in your backyard, portability may not be an issue. It certainly is if you want to conduct your yoga at the park across the street. Although mobility may not seem like a significant criterion, it is critical to travelers.

Motility

Fabric and Texture

Which exercise mat is the best? The greatest exercise/yoga mat is one that provides comfort and ease without sacrificing functionality. Fabric and texture, in particular, are important parameters in Yoga mats. To begin, stay away from Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) mats. Despite their ubiquity, they have a bad reputation among yoga practitioners. This is based on studies indicating that they contain carcinogens. If you are worried about your health, you may not want to get one for yourself. Keep in mind your requirements. The mat should not be stiff or slick in any way. You don't need a mat if you don't mind exercising on such surfaces in the first place.

A mat that is too slick will discourage you from exercising, while a mat that is overly hard will strip you of your skin. Rubber and cotton mats are both preferred alternatives. Cotton mats are the best because they are easy to clean and inexpensive. Furthermore, they are mobile and hence cover all of the essential aspects you require, with the exception of lavish luxury! If you do a lot of odd yoga postures, you'll need a non-slip yoga mat. They're also known as sticky mats, and they're designed to support all of the most strenuous yoga positions a human body can handle. As a result, if you practice vigorous forms of yoga, you should invest in a sticky mat. It is deserving of note. The sticky mats, on the other hand, have a very rough texture. When it comes to employee comfort, texture can make a difference. As a result, if you're short on stamina, a PVC mat is the way to go. Who cares about the environment anyway?

Fabric and Texture

Look into the Price

Area rugs are available in a wide range of costs, with some being quite expensive and others being quite affordable. The cost of carpets is determined by the method of manufacture. We defined ‘what is the best exercise mat to use?' in the previous paragraph as ‘the one that does not compromise on functionality while adhering to specific user needs.' Don't forget about the cost. Obviously, the cheaper the mat, the better. Exercise and yoga mats, like any other accessory, come in a wide range of pricing. You can start with ten dollars and work your way up to a thousand. If you're a beginner, you should start with as little as possible.

On the other hand, if you plan to use it in the near future, you may invest in a quality mat from a respected manufacturer. Certain characteristics, such as cushioning and stickiness, constitute an exception. They are a little more expensive, but for some people, they are a must. Don't be afraid to take advantage of these bonuses because it's always better to be safe than sorry. You don't want to re-rupture your knee while trying to improve your health! Cleaning mats, fortunately, isn't as difficult as other household duties. Simply read on to learn how to clean your yoga mat.

Look into the Price

Cleaning and Maintenance of Exercise and Yoga Mats

This section will cover how to clean and maintain your mats in excellent shape. However, before we go any further, I'd like to bring up the cleaning frequency. The word relates to the frequency with which you clean your mats. The frequency is determined by two factors: your fitness schedule and the cloth used. The more intense and frequent your workouts are, the sooner you'll need to clean your mat. Fabric plays a vital function as well. Cotton yoga mats, for example, require regular cleaning. Cleaning should be implemented once every one to two months on a regular basis. You are allowed to engage professionals to clean your rugs if necessary.

Cleaning and Maintenance of Exercise and Yoga Mats

How to Clean Exercise Mats?

An exercise mat, understandably, gets saturated in sweat and dust after each activity. Germs are on their way! There are no awards for guessing what it is. Because of the nature of the cloth, some people are more prone to the ailment. Yoga mats made of cotton are an example. Medics strongly advise against using such mats because you are extremely likely to become infected due to your proximity to the mat. The majority of mats are simple to clean. The exception being padded ones, which are never properly cleaned! What is the appropriate way to maintain and clean a yoga mat? Washing your yoga mat is one option for cleaning it. So, how do you clean your exercise mat? Just like you'd wash a towel.

Because yoga mats are so thin, they may easily be hand washed. Simply avoid bleaches, soak up excess water, and use a gentle detergent. Unfortunately, the procedure described above is limited to 'how to clean a yoga mat.' Wipe away the dust and spray with a disinfectant from a few feet away for ‘thicker' exercise mats. However, you must exercise caution because the mat must be damp but not entirely submerged in the liquid. Simply wipe away the moisture with a towel, then hang the mat for 20 to 30 minutes to dry.

How to Clean Exercise Mats?

How to Maintain your Exercise Mat?

If you take proper care, you may be able to reduce the frequency of cleaning. Another advantage of taking proper maintenance is that the mat will last longer. Now that we've covered the benefits, let's look at how to care for your exercise mats. To begin, keep the mats clean on a regular basis. After each workout, this includes conducting routine maintenance duties. Second, before each session, wash your hands and feet. These parts of your body are constantly in contact with the mat and are the main source of dust and sweat. Finally, air your mat on a regular basis. This eliminates scents while also drying your mat. It also aids in the disinfection of your mat. Have you ever used the sun to dry your clothes?

How to Maintain your Exercise Mat?

Here is a list of the Best Exercise mats

1. Yoga Mats

The yoga mat is the thinnest of all the mats, with a normal thickness of 0.3 to 0.6 cm. A yoga mat's purpose is to give the yogi more traction and to make it easier to carry about. Yoga comes in a variety of types, thus several mats are available to accommodate the various kinds. A normal yoga mat, for example, will be made of PVC to allow for flexibility and increased grip. If you want to do hot yoga, though, you need to have a mat with a towel-style surface to absorb sweat and prevent slippage. Yoga mats made of natural or biodegradable fibers like hemp or cotton are also available. Because yoga mats are typically owned by individuals, you won't have to be concerned about mat hygiene when sharing them. Even so, it's critical to remember to clean your mat(s) on a regular basis.

Yoga Mats

2. Pilates Mats

Pilates mats are slightly thicker than yoga mats and are designed to cushion the body while also providing excellent grip. Some pilates mats, on the other hand, may feature a gripping bottom and a sliding top, allowing for easier transitions between pilates routines. The closed-cell foam structure is the preferred material for pilates mats since it is easier to clean. The pilates mat, unlike the yoga mat, is frequently given by the studio. For hygiene reasons, it is critical to make these easily cleanable.

Pilates Mats

3. General purpose Exercise mat

General-purpose mats may be found in almost any gym, but they're also great for at-home use. The mat is short but thick, designed to cushion the body throughout the workout. This is the perfect mat for floor exercises including sit-ups, planks, and Russian twists.

There are three basic types of general-purpose workout mats, each with a different customer in mind:

Vinyl: Foam core with vinyl cover on vinyl. These mats are long-lasting and easy to clean. It's able to tolerate a lot of use.

TPE: TPE stands for the thermoplastic elastomer. These mats are durable, comfy, and the most environmentally responsible option because they can be recycled. The mat's elastic qualities allow it to recover to its original shape after use while still providing a soft, relaxing feel.

EVA: EVA foam mats are lighter and cost-effective. However, keep in mind that these mats are not designed to withstand the abrasiveness of trainers. The roughness of the sole may cause tears on the soft surface of these mats.

General purpose Exercise mat

4. Floor Protecting Exercise Mats

Floor protection mats are not designed to be moved around like other mats; instead, they will be set in a designated workout area and will remain there indefinitely. These EVA foam mats with a high density absorb shock, minimize noise, and protect the floor beneath them. These are frequently found in the home gym setting and are often built in a jigsaw style. To prevent your floor from damage, place these under your training equipment. Please don't confuse these with specialty rubber fitness floor tiles, as these mats aren't designed to handle dropping weights. Instead, it's great for circuit training, functional exercises, and stretching.

Floor Protecting Exercise Mats

5. Stretch Mats

Stretch mats are thick, padded, and not designed to be folded, yet they may still be moved around to suit the user's needs. These mats can also be placed next to each other to create a larger stretching area. These mats, which have a high-density chip foam core and are covered in durable PVC, are designed for long-term use in a gym setting. You'll find that they're easy to clean and quite durable.

Yoga Mats Vs Exercise Mats

When it comes to working out, the human body needs at least half an hour of physical activity per day to stay fit and healthy. Staying in shape, whether through yoga or another type of exercise, is the ultimate goal. You may require certain fitness equipment to adequately practice your activities in order to achieve that goal. Mats can be used in a variety of ways and give just the appropriate amount of firmness and softness to get the job done. They have the ability to turn a hard floor into something soft and comfy to workout on. Is it true that you have the proper mat? It's possible that you'll have to select between a workout mat and a yoga mat.

Yoga Mats Vs Exercise MatsSome people may be unaware of the distinction between a yoga mat and a regular exercise mat. Yoga mats are made primarily for low-impact workouts. Yoga mats are often thinner than fitness mats and fall somewhere in the center of the stiffness spectrum. The thinness of a yoga mat provides an adequate cushion for yoga practitioners to feel the floor without experiencing any pain connected with simply using the floor. There are various materials from which you can choose when purchasing a yoga mat. PVC yoga mats are chosen by certain professionals because they provide the correct amount of stickiness and a little softer feel.

Exercise and workout mats, on the other hand, are made to be thicker for individuals who prefer not to be as close to the ground as possible. Other general exercise routines, such as gymnastics, martial arts training, and gyms, make extensive use of them. Gym-goers use exercise mats to do floor-based exercises such as stomach workouts. An exercise mat's thicker shape absorbs more of the impact from slipping, falling, and leaping. Exercising on a hard surface can lead to a variety of ailments, which can be avoided by using an exercise mat. There are numerous options available when selecting a workout mat. They differ in terms of comfort, thickness, and moisture resistance.

Yoga Mats Vs Exercise Mats

With so many fitness mats on the market, it can be difficult for a consumer to select the best mat for their specific needs. The only difference between yoga and an exercise mat is thickness, so choose the yoga mat if it is your primary use. Whatever mat you choose, just remember that you're getting closer to your objective of being physically healthy.

Choosing the perfect yoga mat 

It's critical to know what you want to do with your yoga mat vs. its features and how they'll work in the setting you'll be using it in before making your purchase. For example, if you're looking for a mat to use on your carpeted floor, you won't need a thick mat because the carpet already provides cushioning; however, if you're looking for a mat to use on hardwood, marble, or other hard surfaces, you'll need a thick yoga mat for added cushioning. Why don't we roll out a high-quality Reebok yoga mat with an easy-to-clean non-slip surface for added stability and convenience? It also has a carry strap, making it the perfect gym companion. If aesthetics are important to you, consider a gorgeous printed mat that is both functional and fashionable.

Choosing the perfect yoga mat

Yoga accessories 

Whether users consider it a birthing ball, Pilates ball, gym ball, swiss ball, or yoga ball, a workout ball can be a great addition to your yoga sessions. Whether you want to deepen your poses or focus on specific muscle groups, you'll find that your yoga ball adds versatility and range that will take your regular exercise routine to the next level. Our relaxation ideas and gifts page is a fantastic place to start if you or someone you know could benefit from incorporating some stress management activities into your daily life. You'll find helpful hints and products on anything from breathing and meditation to light therapy and self-massaging gadgets, as well as luxurious face masks and health and beauty items that will make you feel and look wonderful.

One of our weighted hula hoops is what you need in your home gym gear if you want to get a toned and shaped waistline. Our foldable designs can be broken down into six pieces for convenient storage, and the soft foam shell is quite comfortable to use, no matter how many spins you can accomplish! Why not also take a look at our slimming belts? These employ moderate electrical pulses to tone your muscles by making them to contract and relax frequently - what better way to round off your aerobic workout?

Here are some frequently asked questions by our customers

1. What are Exercise and Yoga Mats?

Exercise and yoga mats are designed to provide comfort for people during exercise or yoga routines. They are made from a variety of materials, each with its own unique properties. Yoga mats are typically made of PVC or TPE. They are thick mats designed to provide comfort on top of hard surfaces, such as floors and pavement. They can also be placed next to each other for larger stretching areas where you can perform more complicated poses. Yoga mats are usually thinner than exercise mats, but they're thicker and squishier compared to normal yoga towels which can be used for both purposes.

Exercise Mats on the other hand are made of premium materials designed specifically to be anti-slip while providing comfort during intense workouts or long training sessions in a gym setting. They are built with high-quality rubber materials and surface designs for the best amount of grip. Yoga mats on the other hand, can be utilized both indoors or outdoors as they come in various thicknesses and sizes designed to fit your yoga practice needs. Some thicker mats even offer excellent cushioning making them ideal choices for those who need to exercise on concrete surfaces. Thickness also varies depending on the kind of exercises you will be doing, but it's important to remember that thicker mats are heavier and harder to handle than thinner ones so their use is usually limited if not restricted altogether for certain types of workouts. If you need a thick mat made out of high-quality materials, there are also specialized yoga mats available for sale that will fit your budget.

2. Is a cotton yoga mat durable?

Yes, yoga mats made out of cotton are very durable. They do not tear easily and can last for years if properly cared for. Cotton mats also offer excellent grip even when wet, which is the ideal choice in sweaty environments like hot yoga studios. If you're looking to buy a cotton mat but don't want to spend too much money, there are also cheaper options available that will still give you a lot of value for your money. It is a type of best yoga mat perfect for restorative yoga as it creates a smooth surface and improves the seated poses of your body.

Cotton yoga mats are popular because they're very easy to clean and maintain, but some users complain that it doesn't provide enough cushion if you have sensitive knees or joints. If this is the case for you, consider buying a thicker foam mat with more padding like those made out of foam or natural rubber.

3. Are yoga mats made of natural materials?

Yoga mats are made of natural materials like cotton, rubber and foam. They can also be made with non-natural substances such as polyurethane (PVC), but they're not recommended because it emits harmful toxins that may cause health problems when used over long periods of time.

If you want to go for a mat that's completely free of dirt and cleans up easily then go for synthetic materials when choosing any exercise mat. Natural materials provide more cushion and provide eco-friendliness which makes it perfect for outdoor areas as well. So, If you want to take it out with you, then it's better to go for natural materials.

If you want a mat that absorbs sweat and is anti-slip so the floor doesn't move when performing yoga poses on it, then choose rubber or foam mats as they are perfect in absorbing all kinds of liquid quickly which makes them non-slippery. Some vinyl exercise mats are environmentally friendly and can also be recycled. So, When choosing the best exercise mat for you it's important to understand your needs and choose accordingly with material which is suitable for that particular need. So, The buyers guide will help you in making an informed decision when buying mats.

4. Can I easily fold my exercise rugs?

Yes, most of the mats can be easily folded and stored when not in use. You can choose rugs for both indoor and outdoor use depending on the material it is made of. If you are looking for an exercise mat which can be easily stored, then foam mats are perfect as they come in a roll up design with straps to strap them neatly when not in use or while being transported from one place to another. Synthetic rubber and organic cotton mats are also perfect for indoor and outdoor use.

5. How can I maintain my cotton yoga mats?

Proper care is required to maintain the cotton mats. Cotton yoga mats should be cleaned regularly after each use, especially if they are used by more than one person. These rugs get dirty over time and you can clean them using a mild detergent solution followed by thorough water rinse. Yoga mat material should be dried in the shade and should not be left out overnight as this would attract dust. You should also vacuum your mats every month regularly. Using a thin yoga mat instead of the standard yoga mat is better for the environment.

6. Where can I find travel yoga mats?

Travel yoga mats are great for people that often workout on the go. These rugs use a special material that is lightweight but has all of the features you would find in a regular mat. Look online at places like Amazon to see travel rugs before buying one. It's also important to remember when traveling with your yoga mat, it should have a strap that is strong and durable for easy carrying.

7. What is the best fabric for a yoga mat?

The best fabric for a yoga mat is natural rubber. Rubber mats are heavy duty and they prevent slipping so you do not have to worry about any accidents while working out. This type of material also lasts the longest amount of time when compared with other fabrics like cotton or polyester. You can look at any mat buying guide for more information on the best type of fabric to go with.

8. Is there a difference between a yoga mat and an exercise mat?

Yes! One of the main differences between a yoga mat and an exercise mat is that Yoga mats are typically heavier than exercise mats. Yoga Mats also tend to be thicker for more cushioning while exercising on hard surfaces like tile or concrete ground, whereas Exercise Mats are thinner in order to provide you with better shock absorption when working out on carpeted floors. Yoga Mats are also a little bit less likely to slip because of the increased thickness and porous texture.

9. How do I choose a training mat?

Grip, stability, comfort, and durability are all important characteristics of a good workout mat.

Grip: When a long plank is rocking you to your core, the last thing you want is for your hands, feet, and forearms to slip. Find a mat with a non-slip surface so you can confidently plant yourself.

Comfort: This is critical, especially if you want to exercise on hard surfaces such as hardwood or tiles. There should be enough cushioning that you can do a few crunches without hurting your back. While the normal yoga mat is roughly 4-6mm thick, we would anticipate a workout mat to have a bit more padding. For the best comfort and performance, go for a thickness of 8mm to 15mm.

Durability: While the two groups have a lot in common, the biggest distinction between an exercise mat and a yoga mat is durability. A tiny yoga mat may be built for leisurely, barefooted practice, whereas a thicker workout mat should be able to handle dropped weights and stomping shoes without marking or denting.

 

10. How can we test the quality of a yoga mat?

Many mats will provide the lightweight stickiness required for a yoga class, but we sought out ones that could withstand repeated abuse from severe home workouts. To do so, our expert tester put 18 of the best mats on the market to the test, grading them on grip, stability, comfort, and durability before arriving on this top pick.

To summarise, exercise mats are a fantastic addition that every fitness enthusiast would enjoy. If you're serious about intense workouts, you'll need to get them with the guidance of an in-depth buyer's guide. They not only give comfort, but they also protect you from injuries while you're having fun. Get your hands on these mats as soon as possible! Make a remark on where you acquired yours so that others can learn from your experience. RugKnots offers the highest quality, most affordable original, and bespoke hand-crafted oriental rugs in the business, all with the industry's shortest manufacturing time. See our entire collection here.  For more information please email us at info@rugknots.com or call us at (240) 252-5452. We are happy to answer your questions!

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