From yoga to free weights, you need a gym that supports your body and movement. The right gym matting reduces the risk of injury, absorbs shock, and creates a non-slip surface. Depending on the type of activity you perform, the best gym mat solution can vary. Keep reading to find out the best gym mats for your fitness type.
In this article:
- What is the Best Gym Mat Material for Fitness?
- Which Gym Mat is Right for Your Fitness Type?
What is the Best Gym Mat Material for Fitness?
Gym mats serve two purposes: to protect you and protect the subfloor. Heavy weights can easily damage the floor, and it’s easy to slip on standard flooring exercising. When using gym mats, your equipment will last longer, and your body will thank you for it later. If you have any large cardio equipment or workout machines, it’s a good idea to put down gym mats as equipment can move mid-workout, which can cause scratches and scuffs to the floor.
When it comes to fitness, you have a few different materials that are commonly used. You will likely come across rubber, vinyl, and in some cases, turf. The best solution for you depends on your fitness type, the space available and your budget. For example, a home gym where you plan on using free weights and performing bodyweight exercises has different needs to a larger yoga studio or boutique gym.
Rubber tends to be the go-to material for various fitness types and activities because it’s relatively affordable, durable, and non-slip. In terms of maintenance, it’s easy to clean and is long-lasting. Although many gym mats use rubber, there are several different designs, thicknesses, colours, and construction to suit various activity types and uses.
Which Gym Mat is Right for Your Fitness Type?
Whether you’re upgrading your home gym set up or looking to install new flooring into your commercial gym, gym matting is essential. Here are the best types of gym mats for your fitness type.
Yoga and Pilates
For floor-based exercises like yoga and Pilates, the best option is a foam tile. It’s easy to install and doubles up as a great foundation for children’s play. The EVA 20mm Dual Colour Reversible Foam Tiles are specifically designed for yoga, gymnastics, and MMA. They offer great shock absorption and comfort but are not hardy enough to cope with heavy weights or equipment as they can leave dents over time.
HIIT and Bodyweight Workouts
With high-intensity interval training, dynamic movements, and bodyweight workouts, synthetic turf is a good option. You can install it easily and it creates a new level of variety for your workouts. Sprung Gym Turf is designed for functional training. So, if this is your focus, sports turf could be a great option for you.
Free Weights
Free weights flooring needs to handle the weight without denting or scratching the subfloor. In general, the heavier weight, the thicker the gym mat should be. If you intend on using gym mats for serious lifting and Olympic weightlifting, a thick Rubber AntiShock Gym Mat is a good option. Depending on your needs, the tile thickness ranges from 11mm to a whopping 60mm.
Multipurpose
If you plan on using a gym for several types of fitness, such as free weights, yoga, and bodyweight exercises, you need to look for something that can support various activities. By choosing a multipurpose gym flooring that can cope with free weights and workout equipment, it will also be suitable for other types of exercise. However, a gym mat that is ideal for yoga won’t be suitable for very heavy weights.
It’s always a good idea to align your gym matting with your type of use. To maximise your fitness space and get the most out of it, you want the best flooring solution for your workout.
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