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What are yoga mats made from? What are yoga mats made of? Where to buy a PVC yoga mat

Svetlana Markova

Beauty is like a precious stone: the simpler it is, the more precious it is!

Sports equipment such as a yoga mat is suitable not only for performing asanas, meditation, but also for fitness classes. The choice of mat depends on many factors, such as the location of the activity, as well as the type and level of difficulty of the physical activity. You need to choose a yoga mat that suits all your criteria and serves as additional motivation during your workout.

Why do you need a yoga mat?

Many people believe that ordinary travel mats, a blanket or a towel will do for yoga, but this is a misconception. Only special sports equipment will provide comfortable, safe exercise, because it has good grip on almost any surface, which prevents slipping while performing complex asanas. This foamed polymer bedding will reduce pressure on the knee joints, and during relaxation it will prevent you from freezing from the cold floor.

Types of yoga mats

Today there is a wide selection of products from this group; they can be divided into two large categories: synthetic and natural. The separation is due to the nature of the materials used. Sports equipment in its category differs according to this principle, as well as in color, texture, and dimensions. Through trial and error, choose the best option, and additional information will help you make the right choice the first time.

Synthetic

The synthetic group includes products made from PVC. TPE (TPE), PES (PER) and synthetic rubber. A distinctive feature of this category is the presence of a synthetic odor. Over time, its intensity decreases, but does not disappear completely. PVC products are not strong enough, can tear during exercise, and are not subject to secondary processing, i.e. pollute the environment. And those made using TPE, PTR technology, using synthetic rubber are environmentally friendly and can be recycled.

Natural

When people talk about natural yoga mats, they mean rubber, jute and cotton varieties. Models made of rubber and jute fibers have good adhesion to the surface, which guarantees safety while performing complex asanas, while cotton ones are more suitable for relaxation and meditation. Natural equipment “breathes” well and does not absorb moisture or odors, but they require special care.

How to choose the right yoga mat

To choose the right special mat for yoga, you need to take into account several basic selection criteria: size, quality of adhesion (degree of stickiness), moisture absorption, thickness, strength. Taking into account all these criteria, you can choose the ideal option, thereby ensuring comfortable, safe, effective classes in any yoga practice, Pilates and fitness.

Size

Standard yoga mats are 60-61 cm wide, which is enough for most practitioners. There are also 80 cm wide, they provide greater comfort and space for practitioners. When purchasing equipment, it is worth considering the difficulties of storage and transportation, since its dimensions and weight are larger than standard products. The length depends on the type of activity and the height of the person: add about 5-10 cm to the height for calm practices, and 20-40 cm for dynamic practices.

Grip quality

The more intense your classes, the more emphasis you need to place on this point. In order to avoid injury while performing asanas due to the “leaving” of the mat from under your feet, you need to choose equipment with a good level of stickiness. It is worth emphasizing that this parameter is inversely proportional to the durability of the product, because the soft coating wears out quickly.

Moisture Absorption

If your palms or whole body sweat a lot during classes, then you should give preference to breathable natural yoga mats. In this case, you should discard the option of purchasing synthetic products, because they will only provoke sweat production. If your budget does not allow you to purchase a model made from natural raw materials, then it is better to buy semi-synthetic equipment.

Thickness

Thin products are light and compact, but they are rigid and do not retain heat well. The ideal thickness here is 4.5-6 mm; it will provide sufficient comfort during training and will not allow you to freeze. Thick products significantly lose stability, which can affect during balance poses. If you constantly transport equipment, then give preference to products with a maximum thickness of 4 mm.

Strength

The equipment should not stretch, so almost all products inside or outside have a frame mesh. It increases the service life of the product and prevents the carpet from stretching. There are lightweight models, without a frame, they are lighter in weight, but lose in stability and strength. Suitable only for quiet practices or meditations.

Which yoga mat is best to choose?

Sports equipment must be selected based on the type of activity, physiological characteristics and parameters of a particular person. For static and relaxation practices, the Shakti model is suitable; for more dynamic types, use the Rishikesh and Kailash yoga mats. The choice is also made based on cost, because there is a budget segment, and there is also luxury.

Latex

Models made of latex or rubber have the highest level of strength, they are wear-resistant, non-toxic, recyclable, and do not pollute the environment. The mat is sticky, holds its shape perfectly, breathes, repels water, and is suitable for yoga and intense fitness classes. Manduka, for example, gives a lifetime guarantee on rubber yoga mats. Popular models include Mat La Reina from Manduka and Ecopro Travel from Bodhi.

Cotton sports mat

Linen or cotton mats are often used as a second mat (base), because they are soft and pleasant to the touch; yoga mats have poor adhesion to the surface. As a separate mat, a linen or cotton carpet is suitable for light exercise, meditation or Shavasana. Popular cotton mats: Shavasana, Ecru from the Bodhi brand.

Jute yoga mat

Jute carpets can be classified as semi-synthetic products. Jute models are based on natural fibers and some synthetic compounds. Overall, the product has good characteristics, it is very durable, sticky, but not completely natural. Jute yoga mats are produced by the popular company Bodhi - Jute Pro, Samurai.

Thermoplastic elastomer meditation mat

TEP (thermoplastic elastomer) is a class of materials designed to replace silicone, rubber, and vulcanized plastic. Rugs are soft, pleasant to the touch, and often consist of two layers: the top layer is sticky, the bottom layer is made of reinforced mesh, which increases the service life of the product. Different models of TPR yoga mats have varying degrees of stickiness. The disadvantage is the presence of a synthetic smell. Popular models: Lotus Pro from Bodhi, Pro Vasuda from the manufacturer Manduka. Such famous brands of sporting goods as Adidas, Reebok, Nike make yoga mats from TPR.

PVC yoga mat

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a colorless transparent plastic; PVC carpets are low cost. The product is pleasant to the touch, quite sticky, weight varies between 1-1.5 kg depending on the size and thickness. The mat is suitable for beginner yogis who have not yet decided whether they will continue their classes. The main disadvantage of PVC models is the strong synthetic smell. PVC products are not biodegradable and emit carcinogenic substances when burned. PVC Rugs: Rishikesh by Yin-Yang Studio, Bodhi.

Buy yoga mats

The answer to the question of where to buy a yoga mat with delivery to Moscow, St. Petersburg and other regions of Russia is very simple. As a rule, you can buy a yoga mat inexpensively in specialized sports stores or order mats in an online store, for example, on the popular Aliexpress resource. New products are coated with a special lubricant, which must be washed off with soap before first use. Some materials can be safely machine washed, preferably separately from clothes and other items. So the attribute will provide comfortable, reliable practice at home.

Salamander

This brand's Carbon Travel is made from natural rubber, which ensures reliable grip during intense practice. Experienced craftsmen prefer rubber products:

  • Model name: Carbon Travel;
  • price: 3915 rubles;
  • product characteristics: material – rubber (natural rubber), dimensions (LxWxD) – 185x66x0.2 cm, weight – 1200 g;
  • advantages: super-stickiness, increased strength, lightness, small dimensions, environmental friendliness;
  • Cons: Light marks may remain after intense practice.

The Slim yoga mat is the thinnest, made of environmentally friendly materials, well suited for yoga lovers, convenient to take on trips, can be rolled up or folded into an envelope:

  • model name: Slim;
  • price: 3638 rub.;
  • product characteristics: material – rubber, dimensions – 185(200)x60x0.2 cm, weight – 950 g;
  • pros: lightweight, hypoallergenic, foldable, high-quality material;
  • Cons: not soft enough, heavy load on the knees.

Wunderlich

The strength of the Expert model is that it increases grip with dry and wet hands, because... has a bumpy coating. It is characterized by a low price due to the budget material of manufacture, suitable for beginners:

  • model name: Expert;
  • price: 2500 rub.;
  • product characteristics: material – PVC, dimensions – 200(220)x60x0.5 cm, weight – 1.5 kg;
  • pros: good grip, ability to choose length;
  • cons: short service life.

Kurma Pro is a professional carpet of the highest quality, approved by experienced trainers. It is made of rubber, of great thickness, bags-covers are specially sewn to it, and is intended for regular activities:

  • Model name: Kurma Pro;
  • price: 9070 rub.;
  • product characteristics: material – rubber, dimensions – 200x100x0.65 cm, weight – 5.5 kg;
  • pros: ideally compensates for the load on joints, made from natural materials;
  • cons: heavy weight of the product.

AeroFit

Eco-mat from Aerofit has metal holes for hanging storage. The product is soft, it has an optimal thickness for people who practice yoga in various varieties - 6 mm:

  • Model name: FT-YGM-TPE-6-V-P;
  • price: 3720 rub.;
  • product characteristics: material – TPE, dimensions – 180x60x0.6 cm;
  • pluses: non-slip surface (ribbed), holes for storage;
  • Cons: There is a synthetic smell.

The Aerofit folding mat is designed for yoga and aerobics. It is durable, has a standard width, is short in length, but sufficient for individual lessons, and provides comfortable conditions:

  • Model name: EM-RK-307E;
  • price: 2040 rub.;
  • product characteristics: material – EVA, dimensions – 135x52x0.8 cm;
  • pros: non-slip ribbed surface, soft, foldable;
  • cons: short length.

Hawk

One of the cheapest PVC options. The material is certified, does not contain harmful substances, is hypoallergenic, and can be used as a children's play rug. With a weight of less than 1 kg it provides good grip:

  • Model name: HKEM212;
  • price: 720 rub.;
  • product characteristics: material – PVC, dimensions – 173x61x0.6 cm;
  • advantages: low cost, light weight, optimal dimensions;
  • Cons: wears out quickly.

The model is suitable for practitioners who practice moderate intensity yoga. Eco-friendly PVC is free of unpleasant synthetic odor and has good performance properties. The carpet is printed with:

  • Model name: HKEM113;
  • price: 590 rub.;
  • product characteristics: material – ECO PVC, dimensions – 173x61x0.5 cm;
  • pros: budget price, original print;
  • cons: not suitable for intensive practices.

Nike

The textured surface of the product prevents slipping even when performing difficult poses. The presence of a carrying cord ensures comfortable carrying of the mat. Breathable, open-cell mat:

  • Model name: Fundamental Yoga Mat;
  • price: 2460 rub.;
  • product characteristics: material – EVA, TPE, dimensions – 168x61x0.3 cm, weight – 0.46 kg;
  • pros: slightly larger than standard width, lightweight, lanyard for carrying;
  • Cons: not soft enough.

Just Do It Yoga Mat 2.0 is designed for yoga and Pilates. The special bottom layer provides reliable adhesion to the surface. The carrying cord makes it easier to transport, and folding the mat is more convenient. The top layer is decorated with the branded inscription “JUST DO IT”:

  • name: Just Do It Yoga Mat 2.0;
  • price: 3330 rub.;
  • product characteristics: material – TPE, dimensions – 173x61x0.3 cm, weight – 0.55 kg;
  • pros: good grip, light weight;
  • cons: insufficient depreciation.

O.J.A.S.

A dense, eco-friendly, absolutely hypoallergenic carpet of increased thickness provides comfortable yoga classes. One side of the mat is lighter than the other, they have different surface relief, based on the degree of intensity of practice:

  • name: Shakti Pro;
  • price: 3225 rub.;
  • pros: two working surfaces, environmentally friendly material;
  • cons: bulky, has an impressive specific gravity.

A universal mat of optimal size and thickness. Made from natural rubber without impurities, absolutely hypoallergenic, does not contain toxic substances, provides reliable, comfortable practice:

  • name: Optimum;
  • price: 4490 rub.;
  • product characteristics: material – rubber, dimensions – 185(200)x60x0.4 cm;
  • advantages: optimal dimensions;
  • cons: poor color palette.

Reebok

Original yoga mat with printed logo. A model with increased thickness, it will not allow you to freeze on a cold floor, and perfectly compensates for the load on the joints during practices on a hard surface:

  • name: Fitness Mat Blue Lo;
  • price: 4693 rub.;
  • product characteristics: material – polyurethane, dimensions – 183x61x0.8 cm; weight – 0.3 kg;
  • pros: very soft, absorbs well;
  • Cons: wears out quickly.

The texture of this mat is very sticky, making it possible to perform complex balances without the risk of injury. The rug is lightweight, easy to care for, has medium length and increased width. It features the original Reebok logo:

  • Model name: RAYG-11022BL;
  • price: 1790 rub.;
  • product characteristics: material – polyurethane foam, dimensions – 173x61x0.4 cm;
  • advantages: optimal thickness;
  • cons: may tear during intense training.

High quality equipment, the “little brother” of the legendary Black Mat PRO from Manduka. Both mats are manufactured at the same factory from the same material (closed cell), but differ in dimensions:

  • model name: Comfort Pro;
  • price: 5535 rub.;
  • product characteristics: material – PVC (high density), dimensions – 200x60x0.6 cm, weight – 3.3 kg;
  • pros: lifetime guarantee, very soft, hygienic;
  • cons: high specific gravity;

This rug will be appreciated by people who attach great importance to the appearance of their products. The mat has an original color palette and an openwork pattern on top. Bottom and top layers of different shades:

  • model name: Lotus Pro;
  • price: 3399 rub.;
  • product characteristics: material – TPE, dimensions – 183x60x0.6 cm, weight – 1.2 kg;
  • pros: large selection of colors, good stickiness;
  • cons: gets dirty quickly.

Ashtanga Master

The mat is designed for the most intense, severe practices. It has an extended length and width to provide maximum usable space for yoga. The coffer is thin and perfectly absorbs:

  • model name: Ashtanga Color;
  • price: 3299 rub.;
  • product characteristics: material – PVC, dimensions – 185(215)x66x5.5 cm, weight at 185 cm – 3.2 kg, weight at 215 cm – 3.7 kg;
  • pros: choice of two lengths, good level of stickiness;
  • cons: heavy weight of products.

The mat is strong and durable, suitable for daily training. Optimal sizes will ensure comfortable, safe yoga, fitness and other types of physical activity, does not contain toxic substances:

  • model name: Ashtanga;
  • price: 4200 rub.;
  • product characteristics: material – PVC, dimensions – 183x60x0.55 cm, weight – 3.2 kg;
  • pluses: hygienic, with good shock absorption;
  • cons: poor selection of colors.

Video

Review of universal models made of PVC, carpet and thermoplastic.

PVC mats (Russia)

In 2015, the Avtoprofi Trading House offered drivers at very affordable prices. This was achieved by opening our own production in the Kaluga region. Durable, soft material without an unpleasant odor was developed in Russia and is made from domestic raw materials.

Elastic, soft, durable mats Autoprofi Rus-105 are resistant to aggressive liquids (oil, fuel) and road reagents. The universal shape is compatible with most modern car interiors.


Thermoplastic mats

The mats are made of thermoplastic elastomer with high friction properties. The rugs do not slip underfoot and lie tightly on the floor surface, protecting it from dirt and moisture.

Thermoplastic elastomer is characterized by its low weight, absence of the characteristic rubber odor and high wear resistance. The material retains its elasticity even at extremely low temperatures down to -50 °C. Resistant to aggressive substances (oil, fuel, road reagents).

What I liked most was the quality of the rubber itself, its elasticity, pattern, does not stink one bit and is also frost-resistant! There are no sides, otherwise it would be problematic to roll up when you need to get to all the necessary shelves.

The set of floor mats fits most modern passenger cars. Wide versatility is due to the special design of the “transform” rugs. On their surface there is an extensive network of notches for cutting, which allows you to give the mats a shape that exactly matches the bottom of the cabin.

Bath mats

Rugs in this series are made of transparent PVC, carpet and thermoplastic elastomer.


Notches for cutting on the surface of the mats help to adjust the size and shape of the products, adapting them to the bottom profile. Thanks to this and the high frictional properties of the thermoplastic elastomer, they do not slip underfoot and lie tightly on the floor surface, protecting it from dirt and moisture.

If you decide to do yoga, you need to have a special mat. Now there is a large assortment of these products, as well as other items for this hobby. You need to know how to choose yoga mats. There are several criteria that you should focus on when purchasing.

Why is the product needed?

Before you learn how to choose yoga mats, you need to know what they are for. If classes are performed irregularly, then you don’t have to buy the product. To do this, you can take a blanket, a fitness mat, or a travel mat. But with constant training it is necessary.

The mat is needed to maintain personal hygiene rules. Performing various exercises on the floor or on the ground is dangerous to your health. The product allows you to make classes comfortable so that there are no unpleasant sensations. In addition, with it the risk of injury is minimal. The need for a mat is associated with the tradition of yogis, who always had them for their classes.

Kinds

How to choose yoga mats? To do this, you need to familiarize yourself with the types of products. They differ in material, weight, thickness. According to their intended purpose, the products can be intended for beginners and professionals. Weight also plays an important role. There are products with different weights on the Russian market.

Based on the basis, the rugs are divided into the following:

1. Synthetic: latex - made from rubber. The rugs are expensive and heavy. Although they wear out over time, they are considered non-slip and environmentally friendly.

2. Natural - made from cotton, wool, jute fiber. Quickly absorb moisture.

Thermoplastic elastomer - has low weight and excellent softness.

Polyvinyl chloride is inexpensive and has high wear resistance.

Which yoga mat is better to choose? It is advisable to prefer natural products, as they are the most practical and convenient. But in any case, each product requires careful and regular care.

Size

Common sizes include a length of 183 cm and a width of 60 cm. The first indicator must be selected based on the person’s height, to which add 10-15 cm. If dynamic exercises are performed, a length of 220 cm is required.

Many people prefer a width of 80 cm. Large parameters of the mats increase the usable area for practical activities, but complicate their transportation.

Stickiness

How to choose yoga mats to make them comfortable? When performing dynamic exercises, a person assumes unstable postures. The sticky property of the mat will help protect your body from falling. This is necessary for its adhesion to the floor and body. But you need to remember that the sticky product wears out a lot. For beginners, it is advisable to choose synthetic mats.

Absorbency

When doing yoga, a person sweats, so the product must absorb moisture. High humidity causes slippage. Which mat to choose for yoga? It must be made from natural materials or latex. Then the carpet will have a porous structure and excellent moisture absorption.

Extensibility

How to choose the right yoga mat? A quality product should not stretch. Therefore, it is reinforced with lavsan fibers. They serve as an internal frame that protects against stretching.

Thickness

You need to choose an indicator of 4-6 mm. But beginners also acquire a thickness of 6 mm. The products are soft and do not allow the cold to pass through. Reviews show that professionals prefer a thickness of up to 3 mm. They will be easy to transport since they only need to be folded.

How to choose a good yoga mat? All the above parameters must be taken into account. Reviews show that it is better for beginners to choose synthetic carpets. They have average characteristics, quite suitable for beginners. With the transition to professional activities, you will need a custom carpet.

Single sided or double sided

How to choose a yoga mat? Reviews say that the product should be different on both sides: one is in contact with the base, and the second is intended for the body. When practicing, you should not use different sides, because this is considered dangerous to health.

The bottom part, according to reviews, should not be slippery, even if the surface is smooth, for example: varnished parquet, wet tiles, laminate. You need to choose one with a front side that is adapted to the body: absorbs moisture, does not irritate the skin, and does not cause allergic reactions. Therefore, the lower part should be made of a non-slip material with a textured surface, which is necessary for sticking to the floor. And the natural top coating protects against slipping.

Weight

If you are interested in how to choose yoga mats, you need to pay attention to their weight. They range from 900 g to 3.3 kg. What is better to buy depends on the regularity of use. A solid model is suitable for the home, but for girls to carry, a product weighing no more than 1.5 kg is required so as not to overtighten the shoulder.

Men can choose a yoga device weighing 2-2.5 kg. If it will be used in the hall, then it is better to purchase a folding version, which can easily be converted into a roll and placed in a case with handles.

Aesthetic properties

How to choose the right yoga mat and which one is better depends on your desire. For many people, the beauty of the product is important. This applies to color, material texture, design. There are no rules for such parameters; it is important that the device pleases its owner.

Experienced yogis advise not to choose bright items, as this will distract from your practice. It is better to choose natural color and texture, then the events will be effective. Considering these parameters, you will be able to determine how to choose the right yoga mat.

Where to buy?

The range of rugs is varied. It can be difficult for beginners to choose something suitable. Almost all products are produced in China and Thailand. The exception is the Spanish products Salamander, as well as the German ones - Wunderlich. The following products are offered on the Russian market:

  1. Salamander - 4800-6900 rubles. The product is of excellent quality, made of natural rubber. The surface has excellent grip. The products are non-toxic and do not contain allergenic substances. There are wide products - 66 cm, long - 200 cm, thin - up to 2 mm, and thick - 6 mm.
  2. Comfort Pro - price about 5,400 rubles. Parameters - 200*60*0.6 cm.
  3. Ashtanga Master XL - cost 1,700 rubles. Parameters - 220*60*0.6 cm.
  4. FT-YGM-PVC-3,5-DR - price 440 rubles. The product has a non-slip antimicrobial coating. Dimensions are 172*60*0.35 cm.

Experts do not recommend purchasing goods in supermarkets or sports stores. They often offer low-quality products at high prices. It is advisable to purchase yoga mats at yoga centers or online stores.

Care and storage

How care will be performed depends on the type of material. The product should not be changed frequently, as it retains the owner’s energy for a long time. It is forbidden to exercise in shoes, as well as to fold the mat several times and in half. It is rolled up with the back side inward. It is best to fold it in the opposite direction.

Rugs made of synthetic materials should be washed with warm soapy water after purchase. You can use regular unscented soap, such as laundry or baby soap. After removing the factory grease, the mat should be blotted with a towel and dried.

It should be washed every 2-3 months. You can wash the product in a machine, but with the gentle mode turned on, without powder and spin. Natural materials should not be washed or washed. They are wiped with a damp cloth. Latex mats should be hung for ventilation.

Modern technologies have penetrated into many areas of people's lives. A new product is SmartMat - a “smart” mat. Although it is not on sale yet, the company has received a lot of pre-orders. The cost of production is about 250 dollars. The manufacturer claims that such a product will be convenient for regular exercise for those who want to make it effective. Product features include:

  • yoga voice motivation;
  • assessment of body position and weight distribution;
  • diary function.

Although there are such new items, you can still buy a classic rug that suits all the characteristics. Then the classes will be interesting and comfortable.

Gettyimages/Fotobank.ru

How to buy the right yoga mat?

Do you even need a personal yoga mat? After all, the gym has communal mats, so is it worth spending the money? "Necessarily! — the “LIVE!” instructor convinced me. according to hatha yoga. - You have a toothbrush, comb, deodorant. A yoga mat is also a personal item because it absorbs sweat. And then, knowing your mat, you will be sure that you won’t “go anywhere” on it during complex exercises or asanas.”

What is the difference between cheap and expensive yoga mats?

The price range for yoga mats is from 300 to 3000 rubles. “The difference is in the quality of the material: the more natural, the more expensive,” says Andrei Epikhin, a consultant for one online store. - In addition, cheap rugs often do not have a quality certificate. The certificate guarantees that the yoga mat does not emit toxic substances, is safe and will not poison the air in the house. Therefore, before you buy, find out if there is a certificate.”

Synthetic mats

Denis Bykovskikh


The cheapest option: such mats cost from 300 to 1000 rubles and are suitable for yoga, fitness, Pilates and aerobics. “People buy them when they are not sure about the duration of classes,” says the “LIVE!” instructor. according to “Children's Yoga” Elena Rozhkova. “It’s not a shame to throw away such a yoga mat after a couple of classes.” It is made of PVC - an elastic, durable synthetic polymer. These mats are not suitable for yoga because they are too slippery. They serve for a maximum of two years. Mats made of thick PVC may be suitable for yoga; they are quite rough, but they also cost more, from 1100 to 1300 rubles.

Thermoplastic elastomer mats

Denis Bykovskikh


Suitable for fitness and yoga, they are softer, lighter and more elastic than PVC mats, more pleasant to the touch, and retain their shape well. They do not fade in the sun and are resistant to frost. They do not slip and absorb sweat better, so they are suitable for yoga. Because of their softness, they are also called “female”, although men love them no less. Such a rug costs 1,400 to 2,000 rubles and will last four to five years.

Natural yoga mats

Denis Bykovskikh


These mats are made of natural rubber with the addition of jute or rubber. Rubber is not so light, but it does not electrify at all, does not slip and does not store unpleasant odors. These mats are thicker than synthetic ones, so it doesn’t hurt to put your elbow or knee on them. The rubber mat does not allow the cold from the floor to pass through, it is very sticky and does not slip, which helps to do the same “downward-facing dog” and other asanas with the emphasis of the hands. One of the disadvantages is that natural rugs are heavier. Price - from 2000 to 3500 rubles. They are bought by those who are committed to intensive long-term practice.

How to care for a yoga mat?

PVC yoga mats are durable enough to be machine washed. The rest are best wiped with a damp cloth or alcohol. The main thing is not to wash with soap. Any detergent is absorbed into the yoga mat and is difficult to rinse out. During intense exercise, the soap absorbed into the mat mixes with body moisture, which is why you can roll on the mat as if on ice.

For better squeezing, you can stomp on the mat. After this, air dry.

How to choose a yoga mat?

The length of the rug is chosen by adding 10 centimeters to the height. For some classes you need a longer mat, for example, for Ashtanga yoga it is better to buy a mat 200-220 centimeters long.

Gymnastic mat- dimensional fabric made of artificial or combined with natural material, which is used for fitness, gymnastics, yoga and other sports.

The mat is designed to create maximum comfort for studying. It is used to protect knees, elbows, back and head from traumatic contact with the surface. It is designed to provide good grip on the surface for performing fitness exercises, and should also protect the exerciser from the cold of the floor. Most rugs are water-repellent, which avoids the absorption of moisture from sweat and ensures the rug's safety from the development of fungus inside porous materials. Some rugs only have one side that is water-repellent.

Types of fitness mats

There are several types of rugs, partly they can be classified by type of material, partly by thickness and degree of softness.

Based on the type of material used for manufacturing, gymnastic mats can be divided into the following:

  1. Synthetic mats. Their price segment is from 300 to 100 Russian rubles, they are made of PVC, which is a durable synthetic polymer with a service life of up to 2 years. They have a peculiarity: they can slide under fairly high loads and sweeping exercises: leg swings and twisting. Lightweight and quite durable, suitable for home use.
  2. Thermoplastic elastomer mats. More elastic and soft than pure synthetics, they absorb sweat perfectly, so there is practically no slipping between the supporting parts of the body and the surface of the material itself. They are included in the price segment from 1200 rubles and can serve for more than 3 years.
  3. Rugs made of rubber with the addition of rubber or jute. They have more weight than other types of canvases, but are absolutely not electrified and do not slide on both sides. They are more convenient for fitness, as they are thicker than others. As a result, it is more convenient for exercises that focus on the elbow, knee and pelvic bones, which will not touch the floor under the carpet. Their prices are higher than others: from 2000 rubles.
  4. Travel rugs or “karemats”. They are made of synthetic materials and can be equipped with a film for thermal insulation. They may be suitable for home use, but their main task is not to protect body parts from injury, but to save surfaces from cold. The cheapest - prices start from 200 Russian rubles, and can last for quite a long time.

Based on thickness and softness, fitness mats are usually divided into:

  • Ab mats products. Dense products of small sizes for pumping up the press. Rigid and thick, but can slip when performing other exercises. Price range - from 300 to 100 rubles;
  • Rugs "workout mats". Larger and softer mats made of three segments, non-slip, with a high degree of shock absorption. Ideal for home use in terms of price and properties. Their prices: from 400 to 1500 rubles.
  • Rugs "mind body". Mats with excellent shock absorption, which are used for fitness with elements of yoga. They look more like dimensional pieces of foam rubber. The most expensive products: prices from 1500 to 3000 thousand rubles.

There are a number of manufacturers on the market that present several types of fitness mats: Bradex, Feco, Alonsa, Torneo, Larsen, Verdani, Spokey. They produce rugs from synthetic materials at reasonable prices, up to 900 Russian rubles. For more expensive rugs, we can recommend Reebok and Kettler.

How to choose a gymnastic mat for fitness?

For home use, we can recommend several mats that are suitable for training on different parts of the body, using dumbbells and weights. They should not slip, they should be easy to clean, and you should also pay attention to whether the rugs are prone to collecting harmful microorganisms (this can happen more often with rugs made from natural materials).

Which rug should I buy?

There are many offers on the market, some of them can be cited.

  1. Gymnastic mat Bradex(price is approximately 850-900 rubles). Non-slip mat 0.3-0.5 cm thick with rounded edges. Due to its thickness, it is suitable for abdominal exercises and does not slip.
  2. Rug from Verdani "Sport" model(combines good quality at a reasonable price of 300 rubles). The corrugated rug is made of polyethylene foam and has a short length of up to 180 cm. It is well suited for the home, as it does not allow heat or cold, as well as moisture, to pass through. You can do any muscle development exercises.
  3. Rug Spokey(price around 1000 rubles). Very durable, does not slip at all. It folds easily, has handles for carrying, and lasts a long time. Easy to store as it has straps for folding.
  4. Rug Feco. A thin mat costs up to 800 rubles and has a storage case. Designed for abdominal exercises and leg swings.
  5. Products Alonsa, have a price range from 200 to 600 rubles. The shape allows you to perform exercises while lying down and is not prone to slipping. Has handles for carrying.