Is There A Difference Between A Yoga Mat and An Exercise Mat?

When looking for the proper mat to workout, many people find themselves asking ''Is there a difference between a yoga mat and an exercise mat?'' As a matter of fact, there is.

While in some cases the two can be interchangeable, you’ll find that picking a mat designed specifically for the type of exercise you are doing will help you get more satisfaction out of your workout.

Different types of exercise require different levels of support or cushion, and it’s important to get it right.

Yoga Mats

When performing yoga techniques, a cushion is helpful to prevent fatigue on bones and joints, but stability is a must. Therefore, yoga mats are a thin form of exercise mat, typically maxing out at 1-inch thickness. Firmer mats can push to that 1-inch level, but generally, thinner yoga mats are preferred due to cost, portability, and storage.

It is also important that mats used for yoga offer a non-slip surface and will not move around.

Often used in thicknesses as thin as 1/4 inch, yoga mats are not designed to handle high-impact exercises. One-inch-thick yoga mats will not be as portable, but they can offer more versatility for exercises that extend beyond yoga.

Exercise Mats

Often call gym mats, exercise mats are used for a wide variety of activities and therefore, usually require a greater thickness, starting at that 1 inch mark and working all of the way up to 3 inches depending on amount of impact absorption needed.

Again, these mats are designed for body weight exercises and are not generally recommended for heavy exercise equipment or free weights. In most cases, you’ll be doing your exercise either seated or lying down on exercise mats, and thicker exercise mats are often designed to lessen the impact of falls.

What is the best exercise mat to use?

Now that you know the difference between a yoga mat and an exercise mat, this should help you answer the question of ''What is the best exercise mat to use?''

The thickness and density of your yoga, exercise, or gym mat will play a big role in how effective it will be in helping you make the most out of your workout and keeping it enjoyable.

If you are looking for a thicker mat that can be used for yoga and other floor exercises, consider these two options: Pro Series Fitness Dollamur Flexi-Roll Mat (1 inch thick) and Fitness Dollamur Flexi-Roll Mat (5/8 inch thick).

As always, if you need additional help in choosing between the many exercise mats available, call a knowledgeable customer service representative at Greatmats. We’ll be happy to point you in the right direction.

Now you know the answer to ''Is there a difference between a yoga mat and an exercise mat?''