A couple traiing at home on some Nyamba Pilates mats

BUYING GUIDE: HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR FITNESS MAT?

Whether for toning exercises or gentle stretching, there's a perfect fitness mat out there for you. Find out what to look for with our exercise mat buying guide below.

If you’re on the lookout for the best exercise mat, then you’re not alone. With so many styles, makes and sizes out there, it can get difficult to find the right one for you, whether you’re getting into yoga, pilates or general fitness. Check out our exercise buying guide for the know-how.

Exercise Mat Buying Guide

Exercise mats are an extremely versatile training tool, and if you’re on the lookout for the perfect exercise mat, then you’re not alone. With so many styles, makes and sizes out there, it can get difficult to find the right fit, whether you’re dipping your toes into yoga, pilates or embracing circuit training. Our exercise mat buying guide will take you through the process step-by-step, taking into account comfort, durability, size and more.

To choose a fitness mat, the most important thing to think about is the type of activity you plan to do on it and how frequently you train. There are three main criteria to consider: comfort, size and durability.

Man lying on fitness mat and lifting dumbells

Thickness

The comfort level required for your fitness mat is primarily determined by how often you train. More frequent training sessions demand greater comfort, meaning a thicker mat will likely be more desirable.

Additionally, the thickness of your mat should also suit the specific activities you're engaging in. If your workouts include gentle exercises like stretching or Pilates, where you'll be barefoot and frequently in contact with the floor, a softer mat with a thickness of at least 5mm would do great.

Best Exercise Mat Thickness

The ideal thickness for an exercise mat typically ranges between 1cm and 1.5cm. This ensures it can withstand the stress from fitness exercises without compromising comfort. It all boils down to the support your joints require based on the exercises you intend to perform. For instance, a 1.5cm thick exercise mat is usually ideal for lower back and core exercises, as the extra cushioning is beneficial.

Yoga mat with sizing

Size

The size of your fitness mat is also important for working out comfortably.

When selecting a mat, consider not only your height and the available workout space but also the type of activities you'll be engaging in. If your exercises involve frequent contact with the floor, a longer mat may be preferable, whereas a shorter mat might be suitable if you're primarily seated or kneeling.

A man exercising on his fitness mat

Durability

How frequently you train will also influence how hard-wearing your mat needs to be.

If you are using your fitness mat regularly or for rigorous exercises, opting for one with a protective coating is a good idea. This additional feature will enhance its resistance to wear and tear, such as scuffing and tearing, particularly from sports shoes.

It's essential to ensure that the mat can withstand the demands of your workout routine and provide a lasting, reliable surface for your fitness needs.

Yoga Mat vs Exercise Mat

Typically, exercise mats and yoga mats are constructed using different materials and designed with distinct features to cater to their specific uses.

Exercise mats are usually:
• Thicker, providing greater cushioning to protect the joints
• More suitable for high-impact exercises
• Ideally 1-1.5cm thick

Yoga mats, meanwhile, offer:
• Offer enhanced grip to prevent sliding during yoga poses
• Are designed to support balance and stability
• Ideally 4-6mm thick

Moreover, high-quality yoga mats tend to be pricier and weightier than exercise mats due to the specialised materials and construction tailored for the demands of yoga practice. Hence, it's crucial to choose a mat that aligns with the type of exercise you intend to do to ensure optimal performance.

Our Best Exercise Mats

Decathlon boasts a wide range of some of the best exercise mats available on the market. Whether you're looking for comfort or grip, there are plenty of choices for you to browse through.

DOMYOS Fitness Floor Mat - 6.5 mm

1. DOMYOS Fitness Floor Mat 

Want to elevate your stretching or gentle gym sessions? Find your ideal workout companion in our lightweight and effortlessly portable exercise mat. It's tailor-made to suit all your workout needs, from barefoot activities to exercises in socks.

With dimensions of 140 x 50 cm and a plush 6.5 mm thickness, this compact mat ensures both the comfort and grip you crave to enhance your fitness journey.

DOMYOS Pink Fitness Floor Mat

2. DOMYOS 7 mm Fitness Tone Mat

Made to use at home or in the gym. With 7 mm thickness to keep you comfy on the ground with or without shoes.

Comfortable with a central line to help you with positioning and practicality. Measuring at 60 cm x 58 cm x 7 mm to provide ample space whilst still being easy to carry

DOMYOS Fitness Mat Tone Mat - grey

3. DOMYOS Fitness Mat Tone Mat

Intensify your fitness regime without a slip or slide! Our size M (170 x 62 cm), 8 mm thick mat, infused with the brilliant grip technology inspired by basketballs, promises to be a loyal companion to your high-energy workouts.

Whether you prefer the feel of your own feet or the support of your favourite athletic shoes, this mat caters to both, providing exceptional stability. Perfect for vigorous fitness sessions, you can sweat all you want; this mat will keep you grounded.

CORENGTH Folding In & Out Fitness Mat

4. KIMJALY Gentle Yoga Comfort Mat

A thick and well cushioned yoga mat made for maximum comfort. Perfect for gentle stretches and balancing exercises.

The 8 mm thickness makes for a comfy feel that will suit most yoga practises. This mat comes in variety of designs from plain to creative print options and super easy to clean.

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