Yoga is an ideal way to train your body to relax and flex, and to strengthen your core. Many poses are made more comfortable by using a mat, as well as saving the back, knee, and hips from pressing against the floor for too long. The mat adds to stability when balancing on one leg and prevents getting out of position when arms and legs slide on a slick floor. Yoga mats are made with various types of foam.
Thin Mats
Thin foam mats are usually 1/16 to 1/8 inch thick, making them easy to roll up and stow away after class. The thinness also means that your feet will feel the floor and send feedback to your core to make balance poses easier. Because these mats are also the lightest, they are popular with anybody who has to carry them around in a gym bag. Stuff sacks can be purchased that allow the rolled up mat to be carried around like a backpack.
Thick Mats
Thicker mats are better for heavier people and anybody with joint pain. These mats are up to 1/4 inch thick and are heavier and more difficult to roll up for transport. They are used at many gyms that keep them available for members in the yoga and stretching areas. Their thickness means a person with bad knees, hips, or wrists will get a cushion against the floor. However, it is slightly harder to balance one one leg because the thickness of the mat lends to instability. This can be a advantageous if you consider you are doing even more work at the ankle joint and the core has to be even stronger to maintain position.
Sticky Mats
Yoga mats also have sticky characteristics. Some are labeled as especially sticky, useful for sweaty, intense poses. These mats are usually made with PVC foam, and need to be kept clean to stay sticky. Pregnant women and older people who are worried about slips and falls like sticky yoga mats. The weight of your body pressing on the mat makes it stick to you and the floor. Some of these mats have one side coated with fabric, making it possible to use either a smooth or sticky side.
Alternatives to Mats
Towels and blankets are good alternatives if you forget your mat. They absorb sweat, so rather than wiping them down after class, throw them in the washing machine. Bamboo mats from the Asian market are also good yoga mats, just watch out for splinters. Trim any splinters off before using the bamboo mat in yoga class.
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