Yoga Mats

The basis for perfect yoga performance

Yoga mats are probably the most necessary prop for yoga practitioners. They provide a non-slippery surface that enhances your performance, and they also protect your body against the harshness of the hard and cold floor. Having your own mat is convenient for you to do yoga more often - at home, in your garden, on the beach or even on vacation.

They are easy to roll up and tote if you have a yoga mat bag. Yoga mats typically measure 1/8-of an inch (or 3.2-millimeters) thick. The standard length and width of a yoga mat is about 24-inches x 68-inches.

Sticky yoga mats are made from a variety of lightweight and long lasting materials, the most popular being latex-free rubber with a solid grid on the surface for added cushioning. More expensive yoga mats are made from micro fiber because it results in a soft surface that makes you feel like you're doing your workout on plush carpet. Thick micro fiber cushioning adds comfort to yoga practice; while it draws moisture away from the surface of the mat. The bottom of the mat gives you the extra support and traction you'd expect.

Yoga mats are typically hand-washable, so if you find that your new mat is a bit slippery, you might try washing it in cold water (no more than 30-degrees-Celsius) and let the mat air dry. To break your new yoga mat in, place it on a flat floor space and step on it several times. You also can use a scrubbing brush, one that you'd normally use to scour pans or pots, to break the surface in gently.

Thickness is usually a concern when you purchase a new yoga mat. However, a thicker mat isn't necessarily better. Many seemingly thick yoga mats are simply puffed up thin mats made with poor material. Cotton yoga mats are commonly chosen by those who need extra cushioning for yoga, Pilates, massage, and even just for taking a nap.

Yoga mats start at $12 and can range up to $80 online.