Floor pads are a basic exercise essential, particularly if you work out on a hard floor. A good floor pad protects both your body and the floor, cushioning impact and preventing floor scratches. Although an inexpensive all-purpose mat is better than nothing, choosing a high-quality floor pad is essential for serious workouts.
Travel Pads
Travel pads come in many forms, from thick fold-up mats to lightweight roll-up pads. Heavier travel pads generally come with a handle for easier carrying. Look for a portable mat with excellent grip and enough thickness to compensate for rough or uneven flooring. Portable mats may not last as long as mats in a fixed location as the constant rolling or folding can wear down the surface over time.
Materials and Construction
Floor pads are available in a wide range of materials. Solid PVC mats are heavy and flat and provide an excellent grip. They are an excellent choice for weight training or placing beneath fitness equipment, but may be too stiff for yoga and other exercises. Rubber and foam are better choices for exercise routines that involve sitting or lying on the floor.
Closed-cell mats repel sweat and dirt, making them easier to clean than open-cell mats. High-density floor pads provide solid protection, while those with moderate compression flex underneath your weight. Mats made from recycled materials are readily available.
Grip is the floor pad's tendency to stick to the floor. Pads with little grip can be dangerous, sliding across the floor at inopportune moments. Some mats derive their grip from a sticky surface, which can be uncomfortable during your workout. Look for a pad that has a rough or sticky bottom surface but a comfortable smooth top.
Size
The size of your floor pad is determined by its use. Standard yoga mats are 68 inches long, although longer mats are readily available. Mats for aerobics or other traveling routines should be several inches longer and wider than the distance that you typically travel. If you have a dedicated home gym, you may want to cover the entire floor with pads.
Aesthetic Considerations
Floor pads are sold in a surprisingly wide range of colors and styles. Earth tone mats tend to hide stains. Bright colors may raise your energy level and determination. Black mats are often aesthetically linked to a "serious" workout. Puzzle mats, which consist of interlocking squares, allow maximum flexibility in size and shape.
Member Comments