How to Choose a Pilates Mat
Examine your workout space and floor surface., Get a mat that is at least 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) thick., Buy a mat that is long and wide enough for your body., Judge the mat's texture., Find a mat that can be easily transported or stored away if...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Examine your workout space and floor surface.
If you do Pilates in a small, carpeted area, you may be able to get a thinner, narrower mat.
If you have more space or a harder floor surface, get a thicker, wider mat. -
Step 2: Get a mat that is at least 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) thick.
The purpose of the Pilates mat is to help support and cushion your body as you do exercises on it, so it is important not to get a mat that is too thin. , Measure your height and body width to check against a mat's dimensions at the store or when reading product details online.
If possible, lie down on the mat to see how it accommodates your body. , Touch the mat if you can to see how it feels and whether it will provide you with a good grip.
Find a mat that will prevent you from slipping or sliding as you exercise and may perspire. , This may be important if you do Pilates at a gym or other location where you need to bring your own equipment or simply want to put away your mat after exercising.
Consider getting a mat that can be rolled up or carried by a strap. , The extra thickness can give you more support and protection against potential injuries.
You may want to have a mat made of foam underneath a thin mat. , Certain mats may be manufactured and marketed for either Pilates or yoga, but you can try using a combination of both types in your Pilates workouts. , This may be an option if you are taking classes at a Pilates studio that provides equipment for their students.
By using different mats, if offered, you can decide which ones you prefer. , -
Step 3: Buy a mat that is long and wide enough for your body.
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Step 4: Judge the mat's texture.
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Step 5: Find a mat that can be easily transported or stored away if necessary.
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Step 6: Consider using 2 mats.
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Step 7: Include yoga mats in your selection process.
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Step 8: Try out Pilates mats in a studio.
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Step 9: Choose a mat's color and/or pattern based on your personal preferences.
Detailed Guide
If you do Pilates in a small, carpeted area, you may be able to get a thinner, narrower mat.
If you have more space or a harder floor surface, get a thicker, wider mat.
The purpose of the Pilates mat is to help support and cushion your body as you do exercises on it, so it is important not to get a mat that is too thin. , Measure your height and body width to check against a mat's dimensions at the store or when reading product details online.
If possible, lie down on the mat to see how it accommodates your body. , Touch the mat if you can to see how it feels and whether it will provide you with a good grip.
Find a mat that will prevent you from slipping or sliding as you exercise and may perspire. , This may be important if you do Pilates at a gym or other location where you need to bring your own equipment or simply want to put away your mat after exercising.
Consider getting a mat that can be rolled up or carried by a strap. , The extra thickness can give you more support and protection against potential injuries.
You may want to have a mat made of foam underneath a thin mat. , Certain mats may be manufactured and marketed for either Pilates or yoga, but you can try using a combination of both types in your Pilates workouts. , This may be an option if you are taking classes at a Pilates studio that provides equipment for their students.
By using different mats, if offered, you can decide which ones you prefer. ,
About the Author
Joan Johnson
Joan Johnson has dedicated 13 years to mastering lifestyle and practical guides. As a content creator, Joan focuses on providing actionable tips and step-by-step guides.
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