When you are selecting a yoga mat for purchase, there are several specific physical dimension of the yoga mat that you should consider. The yoga mat need to be large enough to accommodate the physical size of your body. If the yoga mat is too short for your body, your toe or your head may hang off of the edges of the yoga mat while you are performing poses.
This may lead to discomfort in your body. The length of your yoga mat should accommodate the length of your body. Standard yoga mat are 68 inches in length by 24 inches in width.
How to Pick a Yoga Mat
These dimensions will accommodate individuals that are 5’8” or shorter in height. If you are taller than 5’8”, you may want to select a long yoga mat or an extra long yoga mat. These mats typically offer at least six inch of extra length beyond your height to accommodate your body when practicing yoga.
Additionally, the yoga mat should also be wide enough to allow for your bodys joints to have enough room to open and fully extend. For example, poses like Warrior II or plank poses require your hips and elbows to have room to open. If your yoga mat is too narrow, you may feel as if your body are forced into unnatural positions.
The thickness of the yoga mat will determine the level of cushioning that it will offer to your bodys joints. Ultrathin yoga mats are under 1 to 2 millimeter in thickness and are typically light in weight, making them easily transport in a backpack. However, they will not provide a great deal of cushioning to your body.
Mats that are 4 to 5 millimeters in thickness offer support for your body’s joints and are recommended for individuals that are just beginning to practice yoga or those that has issues with there knees. Mats that are 6 millimeter in thickness or more offer the most cushioning to your body and are typically used for restorative yoga practices. Your yoga mat should be chosen according to the type of yoga that you practice; hot yoga require a mat with a high amount of grip while restorative yoga poses requires more cushioning under the joints of your body.
The material that they use to create the yoga mat will affect the level of grip that it will have when you are sweating during your yoga poses. Rubber is one of the best natural materials for creating high levels of grip on the mat. Additionally, because rubber is heavy, the yoga mat will not move under your feet while you are performing poses.
TPE is a popular material for eco-friendly yoga mats because you can easily recycle it. Cork is another material that is popular used for its natural grip when it becomes damp and its antimicrobial properties. In addition to the physical specifications of the mats, you should also consider the amount of space that you have for your yoga mat.
If you practice yoga at home, you should ensure that there is enough space around your yoga mat for your movements. If you practice yoga in the studio, you may have less space for your yoga mat. However, if your yoga mat is too long, it may pose a potential hazard for others when they are practicing yoga in the same row as you.
Finally, you should consider how to properly take care of your mat to ensure that it will last for you for a long time. You should roll your yoga mat with the top side of the mat facing out. Additionally, wipe your mat using a cleaning spray to keep it free of bacteria and dirt and allow it to air dry.
Do not leave it in direct sunlight as this can crack the rubber of your mat. When you travel with your yoga mat, you can use a strap or bag to protect the mat. It should of been checked before you buy it to make sure its good.
Youll want to recieve a good deal on a moddern mat that feels comfortabley.
