10 Best Gym Mats Tested & Reviewed
By Paul McDougal
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In this article, Runnerclick takes a look at the best gym mats currently available on the market. Although they are not used for running, gym mats are essential for athletes and exercise aficionados who are looking to build strength, muscle, and endurance from the comfort of their own home.
If you enjoy working on conditioning, balance, tone, and other core specific exercises, gym mats are a massively helpful addition to your regime. Nowadays people are more focused on maintained a healthy and fit lifestyle==and because of this their are more and more people who have chosen to partake in a comfortable and safe fitness regime they can do from their own home . If you enjoy working out at home then is a good idea to invest in a good quality gym mat (exercise mat).
Since there are so many home exercise routines–most of which involve extensive movement as well as several different body movements–it is important you choose a stable, durable surface to exercise on. Home exercising routines require a lot of floor exercises, so without the appropriate surface you won’t be able to comfortably and safely perform exercises at home. Without a gym mat you will not be able to effectively perform isometric routines and flexibility training requires a secure and comfortable surface that only a good gym mat can provide.
Benefits to be gained from an exercise mat
- Protection for your tail-bone, elbows, knees, and head through a good quality padded gym mat during floor exercises.
- You’re often going to sweat, keep the sweat off your floor or carpet with a washable gym mat.
- For those doing Yoga, the mat will give grip to maintain balance.
- Prone exercises are very good and much better when performed on a body length non slip gym mat.
- Long mats can be folded over to provide twice the amount of padded surface whenever needed.
- Gym mats are very convenient, after use, a quick wash over and easy to store away.
- Gym mats are offered in a very appealing range of colors, so you can choose a mat which fits in with your home decor.
- When you’re on a gym mat it is an effective non-slip surface.
- On a gym mat, you have a clear visual exercise zone, the boundaries are the edges of the mat.
- Gym mats have other multiple uses both in and outside of the home.
- Apart from a good home running machine, you will need a gym mat for other home exercises.
- Reehut Extra Thick
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Our rating - Very Thick
- Price: See Here
- Hemingweigh Extra Thick
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Our rating - Easy to carry
- Price: See Here
- Spoga Premium Extra Thick
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Our rating - Moisture Resistant
- Price: See Here
10 Best Gym Mats
Spri Airex Coronella Exercise Mat
This provides optimal cushioning that will ensure your comfort during your workouts. Floor exercises can cause a lot of strain on your joints, so this cushioning is very important because it prevents this from happening overtime. The Spri mat is also multi-functional and provides proper comfort levels for all exercises.
Size
This mat measures 72" x 23" x .6" (185cm x 60cm x 15mm). You can also order longer sizes if you are taller and need a mat that covers more space.
Usability
This mat is one of the most versatile gym mats you can purchase. It is perfect for Yoga, Pilates, Hydrotherapy, Stretching, and virtually anything you can think of. It is portable, easy to clean, and water resistant.
Price
This mat is higher in price, but it is well worth the cost. This mat is comfortable, versatile, water resistant, and durable--so it will last a long time and you will be able to use it for all of your exercises.
- Very comfortable and has added cushion
- Three color options available
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy to clean
- Water resistant
- Versatile
- High cost
Hemingweigh Extra Thick
This one is super comfortable. If you’re looking for thickness and padding, you can’t really go beyond this one. It perhaps doesn’t have the density of some others on the market, but it’s a really great option if you’re looking for something that feels good. The lack of relative density means a slightly more bouncy feel than some others here, so you might want to consider that before you buy it. A slightly more bouncy material can be good or bad depending on your exercise needs.
Size
Its surface area is a pretty standard size, 23” x 70”, but its thickness sets it apart somewhat from most others – if you’re seeking something particularly thick, this might be the one for you. In terms of thickness, this is absolutely one of the best options on the market.
Usability
It is easy to clean, comes with a handy carry handle, rolls up well, and is reliable. It is pretty durable and should last you a while, but it can be a little slippery on occasion. Like most others on this list, the usability is great here, which is always an important factor when you're on the hunt for exercsie equipment to use at home.
Price
Not the cheapest here, but it’s not a bank-breaker either. It comes in at around average for this list, and the cost is absolutely justifiable for the quality. As with much top-quality exercise equipment, you get what you pay for!
- Very thick with great comfort
- The carry design is very effective.
- Excellent padding
- Good at combating and fixing injuries
- Doesn’t compress over time
- Pretty durable
- Can slip a little on occasion
- Only comes in one colour choice
Pogamat Anti-Tear Workout And Yoga Mat
This mat is not only large, but also extraordinarily comfortable. It has double the thickness than traditional yoga mats---this combined with its dense memory foam provides optimal comfort and cushioning during your workouts.
Size
This mat is a larger option at 78″ x 48″ x 1/4" Thick (6.5’x4′). It can comfortably fit two people and provides plenty of space for any workout. Unlike traditional yoga mats, you won't have to move it around, or do part of your workout on the carpet or floor, when doing some of your home workouts.
Usability
This mat is perfect for all workouts--from yoga and pilates to more intense workouts, like P90X or other at home hiit workouts. It provides plenty of space for movements, like burpees, that require a lot of space. Its double sided surface also provides optimal grip during your workout, so you won't have to deal with any irritating slippage.
Price
This mat comes at a higher cost, but given its size and versatility, it is well worth its more expensive pricing. It also comes with lifetime warranty, so if anything were to happen it can be replaced, free of charge.
- Double the thickness of traditional yoga mats
- Larger mat--easily fits two people
- Can be used with or without shoes
- Lifetime warranty
- Great for all workouts
- Made with Eco-friendly material
- Double sided surface--grippy bottom to prevent slippage
- Expensive
- Only one color option
Sivian health and fitness exercise mats
This mat is large enough for almost all heights, so you won't have to deal with a lack of mat space. It is also made of memory foam and is a half of an inch thick--allowing it to provide optimal comfort on all floors.
Size
The size of this mat is 71 in x 24 in x 12. So, at 71 inches long and 24 inches wide this mat comfortably fits most heights and sizes.
Usability
This mat is portable, lightweight, ad comfortable--making it perfect for almost every activity, whether at home or on the go. Its' bottom side is non slip and will keep you safe from slippage during your activities.
Cost
This mat is highly affordable given what it offers. At a low price you will get a spacious and comfortable mat that is easily portable and useful for a variety of workouts.
- Comes with a carry strap
- Great for many different exercises
- Highly affordable
- Comes in several color options
- Durable
- Comfortable, thanks to its additional thickness
- Perfect sizes for almost all heights
- Non-slip
- Carrier straps are not durable
- Some users report the mat has a distinct odor they do not like
Tumbl Trak Folding
For absolute thickness, this is probably your best option, with a super thick choice of 2” if you want something so padded. If you're seeking something super thick for intense weightlifting or anything else heavy duty, this will serve you well. The vinyl coating feels great against the skin, and the padding on this one is absolutely fantastic. Overall, this one provide very good comfort and a great exercise experience.
Size
This one is 48” x 96”, which makes it a fantastic choice if you’re seeking something bigger than most. It’s also a good choice if you want ultra thickness. For the size, this one is unbeatable. That said, if you have only small space in your home, this might not suit your needs, so be sure to measure up before making any choices!
Usability
This isn’t as transportable as some others on this list, but it still folds up quite well, and it’s easy to attach it to other mats. It’s lightweight in spite of its bulkiness, so it’s not too difficult to move from place to place. The durability is very good with this one. If you want something which is rollable, this won't work for you, but it's otherwise a very good choice in terms of usability.
Cost
This one is massively pricey – if you’re shopping on a tight budget, it’s probably not the choice for you. It is arguably worth the investment given its high quality, but some might not like the price tag.
- Excellent thickness
- Good large size
- Very comfortable
- Great durability
- The vinyl has a great feel against the skin.
- Lightweight
- Nice aesthetic design
- This one doesn’t have many flaws, but it is exceptionally pricey.
Everlast 2’ x 6’ Folding
Although it doesn’t have the high-tech comfort of some others on this list, it does still feel good against the skin and offers great protection against injury with nice cushion. It might not be the best option if you're looking for something with nice touches, but if you want something simple, this will still give you all of the comfort and support that you need.
Size
This one is a good choice if you’re looking for something smaller, though it is still of a decent size, and the thickness ranks about average for this list.
Usability
This one isn’t as transportable as some others featured here, but it’s fairly lightweight and, because of its size, it’s easy to carry and transport around. It’s pretty versatile but some may find it a little soft for some exercise. Because of the way it folds up, it isn't an ideal choice if you're looking for easy storage or if you don't have a lot of space in your home.
Cost
Given its size, it’s not the cheapest on this list, but it’s still not too expensive. With Everlast, you expect quality, and you get it here, so it's still absolutely worth the price tag.
- Its slightly smaller size may appeal to some
- It is very comfortable against the skin
- Easy to carry around
- Decent thickness
- Lightweight
- Not particularly cheap
- Not as transportable as some others here
- May be a little soft for some
Square 36 Extra Large
The density of this one makes it really comfortable and really versatile. It protects really well against injury and cushions very effectively. If you want good cushion without great thickness, this is a great example of how it can be done. It has a nice feeling against the skin, and offers much more comfort than the 0.25” thickness would imply. That said, if you want something thick to protect your floor from damage or dents, this might not be the best choice.
Size
It’s massive! If you want something big, you've absolutely found it here. The thickness is not as much as some might like, but it should be enough for most people, unless you're looking to protect the surfaces in your home.
Usability
This comes with a storage mat, but it can be quite difficult to get in the bag, which can make it somewhat frustrating. It’s not the most movable entry on this list, but for what it is, it still provides decent usability. If you want something which is easy to store in a small place, this perhaps isn't the best option, but the usability and versatility is otherwise great. Because of its big size, this is a good choice if you want to use it for a variety of exercises.
Cost
This is a very pricey one, so it’s not great if you’re shopping on a budget. It is worth it, but it's still a pretty big outlay for some.
- Great size if you’re looking for something big
- It has good durability
- Feels good against the skin, with good comfort
- Double-sided
- Very pricey
- Not as thick as some might like
BalanceFrom EvaFoam Interlocking Tiles
These are non-slip, so they make for a comfy and reliable exercise session. These are ½” thick, so although they’re not as thick as some others on this list, they’re still a good choice. They have high density foam, which gives them great cushion. The interlocking system can occasionally lead to a little bit of annoying slippage and discomfort, but not in any major way.
Size
Each tile measures 24"x 24" so the options are endless. The customizable sizing is a definite bonus for those with limited space or plenty of space. If you want versatility, these definitely offer it. They're definitely useful if you're keen on something which you can easily and unobtrusively store.
Usability
These are easy to carry around, they’re waterproof, they’re easy to clean and they offer good adaptability. In terms of usability, these are a fantastic choice, so they might be a good option if this is your priority.
Cost
For such a good design, these have a great price point, so they’re a good option if you’re shopping on a budget. They are absolutely worth every cent.
- Decent price point
- Excellent versatility
- Comfortable
- Easy to use
- Lots of handy features
- Not as thick as some others on this list
- Not quite as easily transportable as some others
Sunny Health & Fitness Tri-Fold Exercise Mat
The Sunny & Health Tri-Fold exercise mat provides optimal cushioning and comfort. At 2 inches thick, it is perfect for floor exercises and will protect your joints as you move through your movements.
Size
This mats dimensions are 24 x 72 x 2 inches. These dimensions make this mat perfect for people of almost every height and size. This mat also folds into 23.5 x 23.5 x 5.5 inches, making it easy to store.
Usability
This mat is perfect for most floor exercises, yoga, and pilates. While you won;t be able to do any intense HIIT or cardio exercises on it, id does provide optimal cushioning and comfort for floor exercises using your body weight.
Cost
This mat has an above average price, but it certainly is not an expensive item. Its durability, portability, and comfort make it worth the price and the investment.
- 2 inches Thick, for added cushioning and comfort
- Folds, for easy storage or portability
- Large size to fit almost every height
- Comes with handles, so it is easy to carry
- lightweight
- Doesn't work well for more intense cardio workouts that require jumping, etc.
- Not slip resistant on wood floors
XMark Fitness Ultra Thick
The sturdy design provides plenty of cushion and protection, so it’s a good option for comfort. It doesn’t slip and it feels very good against the skin. If you want something that feels nice when you work out, this could definitely be a good choice. That said, it might not be as soft as some like, with a relative lack of softness and not as much bounce as some others on this list.
Size
This is around an average size for this list, and although not as thick as some others, it still has good density and a decent enough thickness.
Usability
This won’t stand up to the most intense of heavy lifting exercises, but it’s otherwise more than sufficient. So although you can’t deadlift with this without damaging your floor, you can do pretty much everything else. It doesn’t roll for versatility and transportability, which is a shame. If you want something which is easy to store and keep in your home, this might not be the best option, particularly if you don't have much space.
Cost
This isn’t the priciest on this list, but it certainly doesn’t rank as a low-cost option. It's not going to break the bank, but if you want something that ranks as low-budget, it might not be the best for you.
- This is good if you want something to lift weights with
- Cofortable
- Non-slip
- Decent thickness
- Good sturdy design
- Not good for versatility and transportation
- A little hard for some
There we have the best exercise mats on the market, with a whole range of stuff suitable for anyone, regardless of what your particular needs may be. Get matted and get moving!
The Criteria Used to Find the 10 Best Gym Mats
When looking for a gym mat, it’s important to consider what you want to use the gym mat for, how easy it is to use, and a number of other factors. As you’ve probably gleaned from the above, not all gym mats are the same, so it’s essential to consider a bunch of different metrics when you’re on the hunt for something suitable. This list was drawn up based on very specific metrics which are key to choosing a gym mat. These are detailed and explained below, along with a description of their importance.
Comfort
This one goes without saying… when you’re looking to exercise, you want equipment that’s going to make you feel comfortable. While most good gym mats are comfortable, some are more suited to different types of exercise than others. Some of the entries on this list are good for lifting weights, while others are more well-suited to stretches and more light exercise. Largely, certain mats are built to provide comfort for certain exercises. The type of material the mat is made out of will also determine comfort. Some thicker models, for example, are made of a memory foam in order to help cushion feet and absorb shock from strenuous exercise, while others may have a latex coating. So although these are all comfortable, it’s best to consider the style and intensity of exercise you’ll be doing in order to choose the right level and type of comfort for you.
Size
Again, this depends on what type of exercise you want to do, but it’s important to consider that a big mat is always good, as it offers versatility. Pay attention to the thickness and size of mats in order to consider what is right for you. If you only do small stretches and need some simple warm-ups, then a small mat might be enough, but for more strenuous and high-impact routines or exercises, you’ll want something more thick and large. There are some mats that interlock allowing you to customize the size which could be important to those with limited space. It’s also important to measure your floor size before investing – some unluckily make the mistake of buying a mat before realising that their home doesn’t have enough space to accommodate their purchase.
Usability
It’s important to consider which features are on offer with a potential mat – is it non-slip? Washable? Is it transportable? Is it easy to store? Waterproof? A basic mat might seem enough on face value, but what you want is something that is durable, sturdy, easy to use, move, wash and store, and with a reliable and durable design to keep you working out regularly.
Cost
This one is important for everyone – we all have a budget that we’re keen to work within, so this list offers a number of different price point options. It is is worth mentioning that some of the higher cost mats on this list will be durable and overall, are worth their money. It’s also important to note that, by buying a mat, you may be able to cut down on the amount of time you spend in the gym or in classes, which can offset any initially-expensive cost.
Other Important Factors to Consider
Although the above are the most important factors to consider, there are a couple more that you might want to think about before choosing which one is for you. These include material type and durability.
Material
Different mats are made from different materials, which can affect density, feel against the skin, cushion, bounce and more. Some materials absorb odors as well, so looking for a material that is non-absorbent might be worth considering. If you’re keen to prioritise something particular, it’s best to consider materials which you want your mat to be made from.
Durability
Depending on the design and style of your chosen mat, it will have a varied shelf life. Depending on the exercise you do, you will want to take into consideration the material’s durability. A thin mat will do best for light stretching and other light exercises, but will not hold up to heavy equipment or more rigorous exercises. Though thicker mats have a tendency to be more durable, they might be suitable for the particular exercises you’d like to perform on them. It’s best to consider how long you want your mat to last, and which mats will match your expectations.
FAQ:
Q. What types of mats are available?
A. There are plenty of options according to the type of exercise that you’re doing. For things like pilates and yoga, you can get something with no bounce but a decent amount of cushion, whereas for weightlifting or something high impact, you’ll want something with more protection, both for yourself and for the floor. No matter your type of exercise, there’ll absolutely be something suitable on this list, along with more options on the market.
Q. Will my mat smell?
A. Depending on which material your mat is made from, it might develop a bad smell over time. Sometimes the more rubbery mats can develop this smell, though the ones which are better manufactured have an anti-odor design. It’s worth considering how long you’ll be keeping your mat for, and how often you’ll be using – both of which are factors which will influence your choice.
Q. Can I get an eco-friendly mat?
A. Lots of exercise companies are very ecologically conscious, so if you’re keen to get something that’s good for you and the environment, it’s absolutely possible to do so. Many companies make products which are massively eco-friendly.
Q. Can I guarantee that my mat won’t slip?
A. Lots of mats claim to have non-slip technology, though not all actually do. If you’re exercising on wooden or otherwise slippery floors, it’s wise to make sure that your chosen mat will stay stable and in place, in order to avoid injury and any potential sprains and strains. Make sure that non-slip means non-slip.
Q. How much will my mat weigh?
A. This is one aspect which people often overlook. For convenience and movability, you want something lightweight, but if it’s too light, it might not want the sturdiness that you seek. Although this isn’t an absolute priority, so we haven’t mentioned it much in this article, it’s perhaps important to consider depending on your specific needs. A heavier mat often implies more sturdiness and more reliability, which is a great feature if it’ll be staying and place and won’t require being moved.
Q. What are the benefits of an exercise mat?
A. Convenience, versatility, injury-prevention and increasing fitness. Sometimes, working out at home is the best option, and if you have an exercise mat, you’re able to do plenty with minimal equipment. You’re able to be versatile and you’re able to exercise safely and sensibly. There are a load of ways you can increase your fitness and improve your performance with an exercise mat, many of which won’t be immediately obvious or apparent. It’s always a good idea to peruse books and the internet to check out particular exercises that might work well for you.
Check out a few sources that we used:
Sources
- , How To Choose a Pilates Mat, Information Website, Apr 26, 2018
- , Choosing The Best Exercise Mat, Information Website, Jun 26, 2011
- , Six Different Types of Exercise Mats, Information Website,
- , What Should I Look For in a Fitness Exercise Mat?, Information Website,
- , The Best Exercise Mats, Information Website, Jun 25, 2015
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