1. Why Your Yoga Mat Won't Work
Pilates and Yoga are meshed together in fitness terms all too often. The fact is the two are quite different in movement and results. The yoga mat is usually very thin and made of materials that make them "sticky." Pilates mats are thicker and made to reduce friction. Pilates incorporates many moves done lying down that press your spine into the mat. The extra thickness provided in the Pilates mat give your back and body the comfort and padding needed to prevent injury. Yoga mats do not provide the proper platform for Pilates work, especially if you are doing Pilates on a hard surface floor.
2. Pick Your Packaging
Pilates mats come in a couple of different styles. One style is the roll out mat. This is a pliable mat that can be rolled into a tube like shape for storage or travel. This is the more common style seen in ads and in the media. The other style is a tri-sectioned mat that folds into thirds. This mat is carried by straps on one side. The tri-sectioned mat does not roll up, but can be stored flat or in small slim spaces. You can purchase special carrying cases to give additional protection to your mat. Purchase one of the carry cases if you travel with your Pilates mat or store it out in the open. Pilates mats come in a variety of colors and designs, so find one that compliments your style and get started.
3. Specs for Success
There are hundreds of Pilates mats to choose from and some particulars you should look at when making your choice. Foam is a common material used in most mats. Pilates mats made from closed cell foam will hold shape better and be more sterile and easier to clean effectively. The closed cell foam provides excellent support for beginning to expert Pilates participants. Your Pilates mat should fit your body. They come in sizes from 21 to 39 inches across and from 72 to 86 inches in length with an average thickness of 5/8 of an inch. You can also purchase longer and wider mats to accommodate your individual size, giving you an additional four to eight inches in either direction. The mat you use should protect your back and comfortably give you coverage from the top of your head to below your hips.
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