Published: An Overview of Popular Yoga Styles for Beginners

I published “An Overview of Popular Yoga Styles for Beginners” on @Medium

Published: Exploring Jamaica’s Historic Montego Bay

I published “Exploring Jamaica’s Historic Montego Bay” on @Medium

Key Considerations for Selecting the Ideal Yoga Mat

A suitable mat is a key element needed for safe and effective yoga practice, regardless of the workout space used for the activity. Using a rug, slippery towel, or overly soft gym cushion rather than a proper yoga mat can result in injuries and discomfort and compromise your ability to practice properly. Ultimately, selecting an ideal yoga mat is a matter of personal preference. However, considering the key features of different types of yoga mats can aid in choosing a mat that best suits your specific needs.

Depending on their thickness, yoga mats range in weight from approximately two to seven pounds. Mats measuring about 1/8-inch thick (or 3.175 mm) are standard and most suitable for consistent practice. Thinner yoga mats enhance stability, making them great for yoga styles involving more dynamic or balanced poses.

A lighter, more portable travel mat might suit you better if you attend classes frequently or practice in various locations. These mats are often smaller, thinner, easier to roll, and more convenient to carry. If your practice space includes carpeting, a thinner and firmer mat is preferable, as too much thickness can affect balance, and a thick mat might bunch up on carpeted surfaces.

Thicker mats provide added cushioning, making them ideal for therapeutic practices like restorative yoga, which involves fewer poses held for longer durations. These mats offer enhanced comfort during forearm and kneeling poses, benefitting yogis with sensitive joints. However, balancing in standing poses may be trickier on thicker mats.

Various options are available when considering the ideal material for your yoga mat, ranging from affordable PVC to eco-conscious natural rubber. The material choice influences the mat’s price, weight, grip, and durability. Typically, thicker mats are more long-lasting than thinner ones, but durability depends on the material. PVC, a plastic-based material, boasts high durability, easy cleaning, and excellent floor grip. However, PVC mats are non-absorbent and slippery if damp from heavy sweating.

While latex-free, PVC isn't biodegradable and less environmentally friendly than other options. TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) mats, a blend of plastic and rubber polymers, are often more environmentally friendly than PVC, with some fully recyclable.

Despite offering good traction, TPE mats generally aren't as durable as PVC mats of the same thickness. Eco or natural mats are sourced from natural rubber, organic cotton, and jute. Although slightly less grippy on the floor, these mats offer natural texture for body traction. While lacking the decade-long durability of PVC, eco mats are a top choice for sustainability-conscious individuals.

Typically, the most affordable option for yoga mats is the standard 1/8-inch-thick PVC sticky mat in a plain, solid color. You can expect to pay more if you're looking for additional features such as artistic designs, premium thickness, antimicrobial treatments, or unique textures and raised patterns. Eco-friendly, extra-wide, longer, or thicker Mats often come with a higher price tag.

The ideal size of a yoga mat depends on what suits your body and yoga practice. Generally, mats measure 68 by 24 inches, which is suitable for most practitioners. However, opting for a 72- or 74-inch long mat could be more suitable if you're taller. Additionally, extra-wide mats are available for purchase if you prefer more room to move.

After considering thickness, material, texture, grip, eco-friendliness, and price, the final consideration is style and design. While the appearance won't impact the mat's functionality, selecting a design that pleases your aesthetic senses is crucial. Look for colors, patterns, or prints that excite you, and opt for a style you genuinely love that will motivate and enhance your yoga practice.