5 Best Exercise Mats for Home Workouts 2024
Exercise mats are a staple in any fitness routine, providing the necessary support and cushioning for various workouts. Whether practicing yoga, engaging in Pilates, or doing high-intensity interval training, having the right mat can significantly improve your performance and comfort. A good exercise mat’s key attributes are durability, portability, and cushioning.
Several factors should be considered when choosing the best exercise mat. Material is crucial; options include PVC, TPE, rubber, and natural fibers. Each has advantages and disadvantages regarding grip, durability, and environmental impact.
Size and thickness are also important, as they affect both comfort and ease of storage. Non-toxic, eco-friendly materials are a great choice for health-conscious and environmentally aware people.
We researched and tested a range of exercise mats to find the best options for different types of workouts and preferences. Let’s explore the top picks that can enhance your exercise experience.
Best Exercise Mats
We’ve gathered the top exercise mats to enhance your workout experience. Browse our selection to find the perfect mat for your fitness needs.
Amazon Basics Extra Thick Yoga Mat
A definite purchase for anyone seeking a comfortable and supportive workout mat.
Pros
- Superior cushioning for added comfort
- Durable foam construction
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Slight tendency to slide on smooth surfaces
- Could be wider
- Strap can be finicky
The Amazon Basics Extra Thick Yoga Mat offers a thick, cushy surface ideal for yoga, pilates, or floor exercises. Its 1/2-inch padding provides exceptional comfort, especially for those longer workout sessions where joint support is crucial.
Made from durable foam, it bounces back into shape after each use, ensuring longevity. The textured surface adds extra traction, keeping your stance stable even during more intense routines.
Despite its benefits, it does slide a bit on certain surfaces, which might require frequent adjustments. While the mat’s overall dimensions are generous, an extra couple of inches in width would cater even better to those needing more space. The included strap is handy for carrying, though managing it can sometimes be tedious.
BalanceFrom Exercise Mat
The BalanceFrom Exercise Mat offers exceptional cushioning and versatile use for various exercises.
Pros
- Excellent cushioning with 1-inch thickness
- Slip-resistant surface for safety
- Easy to clean with soap and water
Cons
- Initial strong chemical odor
- May take time to lay flat
- Bulky when rolled up
We recently tried the BalanceFrom Exercise Mat, which stands out for its 1-inch thickness and provides just the right cushioning.
Using this mat, we felt substantial support during yoga, pilates, and high-impact workouts. It’s particularly kind on sensitive joints like knees and hips, making our sessions comfortable.
The slip-resistant surface gave us added confidence, ensuring we stayed stable and injury-free during our routines. It is ideal for varied exercises, from balance-intensive yoga poses to vigorous aerobic movements.
Cleaning the mat is straightforward. Its moisture-resistant technology lets us wipe it down easily with soap and water. However, the initial strong chemical smell was off-putting, although it disappeared after airing out for a day. The mat is also bulky when rolled up, making storage slightly inconvenient.
Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat
Ideal for anyone seeking a reliable and comfortable exercise mat.
Pros
- Excellent cushioning for various exercises
- Convenient carrying strap included
- Generous length suitable for most users
Cons
- May show signs of wear over time
- Velcro strap might not appeal to everyone
- Slightly bulky for transport
The Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat impresses with its extra thickness and cushioning, making it a fantastic choice for yoga, Pilates, and other floor exercises. The material is soft yet supportive, providing comfort without compromising stability.
One of the standout features is the carrying strap, allowing us to transport the mat easily. The ample length accommodates users of various heights, which is particularly beneficial during stretching routines.
While we appreciate its comfort, we noticed wear after extensive use. The Velcro strap, though functional, isn’t everyone’s favorite. Despite these minor drawbacks, this mat remains a solid investment for regular workouts.
Gorilla Mats Large Exercise Mat
This mat might be the last piece to elevate your home workout routine.
Pros
- Instantly turns any space into a gym
- Unmatched durability and non-slip surface
- Protects floors and joints
Cons
- Can be heavy to move around
- Matte surface might show dirt easily
- Might be too large for small spaces
Setting up the Gorilla Mats Large Exercise Mat is so simple—just unroll it, and you’re good to go. The size is perfect for any high-intensity workout, and it doesn’t budge thanks to the non-slip bottom. The cushioning feels great on your joints, which makes a big difference during longer sessions.
We were impressed with the premium build quality. It gives off a professional vibe backed by numerous positive reviews. Unlike some other mats, it didn’t have that strong rubber smell either. Notably, it is a bit hefty, so moving it around frequently could be a hassle.
Cleaning the mat is straightforward with just soap and water, but its matte finish tends to show dust and dirt easily. If you have limited space, its generous dimensions might be overwhelming. Nonetheless, it’s a solid investment for anyone looking to protect their floors and enjoy a stable workout surface.
GXMMAT Extra Large Exercise Mat
This product offers a substantial workout area with excellent durability and support for various exercises.
Pros
- Abundant workout space.
- Excellent non-slip grip.
- High-density cushioning.
Cons
- May be too large for smaller spaces.
- Heavy to move around.
- Textured surfaces might not be preferred by all.
We’ve used the GXMMAT Extra Large Exercise Mat and immediately noticed its expansive size. Spanning 16 by 6 feet, it accommodates all workouts, including high-intensity cardio and dance routines. The extra space eliminates the worry of stepping off the mat during movement-heavy exercises.
Another standout feature is its double-sided, non-slip surfaces. These enhance stability, keeping us secure during intense sessions. The high-density memory foam provides superb cushioning, greatly reducing the impact on our joints and proving beneficial during high-impact activities.
However, its size can be a double-edged sword. While it provides ample space, it might be too large for smaller workout areas.
Additionally, the mat is quite heavy, making it cumbersome to move or roll up. Some might also find the textured surface less than ideal, especially when cleaning. Despite these minor drawbacks, it’s a solid choice for those with the space to accommodate it.
Buying Guide
Considering a new exercise mat? Let’s dive into what you should look for.
Material
- PVC: Durable and easy to clean.
- TPE: Eco-friendly and lightweight.
- Natural Rubber: Biodegradable and provides good grip.
- EVA Foam: Cushioned and budget-friendly.
Thickness
- Thin (3mm – 5mm): Ideal for balance and stability exercises.
- Medium (6mm – 10mm): Good for yoga, pilates, and general workouts.
- Thick (10mm – 15mm): Best for high-impact activities and joint support.
Texture
- Smooth: Allows for easy movement and is suitable for flowing yoga.
- Textured: Provides grip, reducing slip during intense workouts.
Size
- Length: Standard is 68 inches, but taller individuals may need 72 inches or more.
- Width: Standard is 24 inches. Wider mats are available for more space.
Portability
- Weight: Lighter mats are easier to carry but may offer less cushioning.
- Foldability: Look for mats that can be rolled or folded for travel.
Durability
- Wear and Tear: Check for resistance to tears and signs of wear.
- Maintenance: Easy-to-clean materials ensure longevity.
Additional Features
- Non-slip Surface: Prevents accidents during workouts.
- Alignment Marks: Helps in positioning for yoga and pilates.
- Warranty: Look for products that offer a guarantee.
Cost
- Budget: Affordable options may compromise on durability.
- Premium: Higher cost often means better quality and features.
Making an informed choice will ensure we get the best value and experience from our exercise mats. Happy shopping!
Frequently Asked Questions
We often get questions about the best types of exercise mats for different activities and users, their benefits, and specific features to look for.
What thickness exercise mat is best for high-intensity interval training?
For high-intensity interval training, a thicker mat is advisable. Mats ranging from 1/2 inch to 1 inch provide adequate cushioning for high-impact exercises. This thickness helps absorb shock and reduces strain on joints.
How do exercise mats on hardwood floors differ from those designed for carpet use?
Exercise mats for hardwood floors often feature a non-slip backing to prevent sliding. Mats for carpet use may focus more on providing stability than anti-slip properties. Choose a mat designed for your flooring type to ensure safety.
What are the benefits of using an exercise mat during a workout?
Using an exercise mat provides comfort and cushioning. Its non-slip surface reduces the risk of injury. Furthermore, an exercise mat can absorb sweat, making it easier to maintain hygiene during workouts.
What should seniors consider when selecting an exercise mat?
Seniors should look for mats with enough cushioning to protect their joints. They also prefer mats that are easy to clean and provide a non-slip surface. Portability or lightweight mats can also be beneficial for seniors who may move their mats often.
What features make an exercise mat non-slip, and how important is it?
Non-slip mats, usually made from rubber, have a textured surface. This feature is crucial to preventing accidents during workouts. Ensuring the mat stays in place helps maintain balance and stability during exercises.
Is there a notable difference between an exercise mat and a yoga mat?
Exercise mats are generally thicker to support various activities, while yoga mats are thinner for better grounding and stability. Yoga mats also tend to have a stickier surface to assist with poses. Choose based on the primary type of activity you will be doing.
