When it comes to choosing a yoga mat, there’s more to it than meets your third eye chakra. Sourcing a stylish design might look good in a yoga class, but a mat that feels easy to move on and offers essential grip is key to perfecting your poses. From dynamic moves such as dolphin plank or crow pose to a restorative savasana at the end of your practice, using a supportive and comfortable yoga mat can make all the difference.
“Grip is important to me when deciding which mat to use so that I won’t slip when the yoga session gets sweaty,” says celebrity personal trainer Peter Maciver of PMac Fitness. “Material that feels good underhand is also crucial as I want to be able to lie down and feel relaxed and balanced. Choosing a mat with durable materials that don’t easily damage after frequent use and can be easily wiped clean will also help prolong the life of the mat.”
Flexibility is also something to bear in mind when deciding which yoga mat to buy. A mat that travels well and isn’t too heavy to carry to class might be an important factor in your decisionmaking. Or perhaps you’re after a design that you can use for Pilates, body balance, and a body pump class too? If so, look out for a versatile mat that is built to cater to all forms of exercise, not just pigeon pose.
Be sure to read our other health and fitness guides, including the Best Climbing Gear for Beginners, Best Heart Rate Monitors, and Best Earbuds for Working Out.
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