Yes, there are hundreds of brands and mats with many different features that you can buy. So, which one is right for you and how should you make your choice? Let's examine it together.
1. Thickness:
- *Support and Comfort:* A thick mat (6-7 mm) provides more support and comfort, especially for the knees and joints. However, depending on the material, a thick mat may not support your balance and may cause you to slip. A thin mat (2-3 mm) provides more balance and a feeling of being close to the ground. The thickness can also be selected according to your exercise type. If you have a practice that focuses more on yoga, a mat that is 4 mm thick or less can be selected, and if you focus more on pilates, a mat that is 5 mm thick or more can be selected. In general, a thickness of 4-5 mm is ideal.
- *Portability:* 3mm and thinner mats are lightweight and easy to carry, which can be practical when traveling.
2. Material:
- PVC:* Durable and adhesive, but not environmentally friendly and contains toxins.
- *TPE:* Recyclable and environmentally friendly, it also provides a good grip.
- *Natural Rubber:* Environmentally friendly and biodegradable. Provides strong grip and durability, but may not be suitable for allergy sufferers.
- *Cotton or Jute:* They are natural and breathable materials, but offer less grip .
3. Grip and Non-Slip:
- The surface of the mat should provide enough grip to prevent slipping, even when you sweat. This is especially important for intense yoga styles (e.g. Ashtanga or Vinyasa).
4. Dimension:
- The length and width of the mat should be appropriate for your height and comfort. Standard yoga mats are usually around 173cm-183cm, but longer or wider mats are also available.
5. Transport and Storage:
- If you frequently carry your mat, you can choose a lightweight and portable model. It is also very practical to carry it with carrying straps or bags.
6. Ease of Maintenance:
- It may be appropriate to air your mat or wipe it occasionally with a chemical-free damp cloth.
By evaluating these factors, you can choose the yoga mat that best suits your needs and preferences.
At Lemon Tree Yoga, we offer a variety of yoga mats in our online store. To determine which mat is best for you, you can look at the criteria above and choose the one that suits you best.
With love,
Lemon Tree Yoga