Thick Yoga Mats – Are They Right for You?
January 30, 2010 by Yoga Fan
Filed under Yoga Equipment
Yoga is a very versatile exercise and because of it the available equipment is also very versatile. There are all sorts of different outfit options, DVD options, and accessory options. Trying to find what works for you is important and while many people prefer thick yoga mats, it may not be the choice for you. You have to take a look at the pros and cons of choosing a thicker mat and choose for yourself whether it is for you or the thinner versions are the way to go.
A standard yoga mat is considered to be about 3.2mm thick. The double standard is double that at 6.4mm thick. Doubling that arrives at an area of extreme thickness with 12.8mm or about half an inch. The density of choice is based primarily around how much softness you are after and will vary by a person’s body type; though some of the more difficult alignment poses will be harder to achieve on the extra thick yoga mats. It is important to note that while we consider a standard mat to be 3.2mm thick, manufactures are not bound by these standards and so it is important to look and see what the actual thickness is.
The materials are also major considerations, because with use will come wear and tear. If you are a beginner to yoga and aren’t sure if it is the thing for you, then picking out one of the cheaper yoga mats is the way to go as you will be better able to see if the exercise and philosophy is for you without spending a lot of money. You are still able to locate some of the thicker mats in cheap prices if you find that the thinner ones do not provide enough comfort as you work on balancing on one leg or the other.
One small thing to consider with materials is that you want to make sure you aren’t allergic to the material, such as latex. There are plenty of organic options available if you wish to remain more eco friendly. If you do buy a cheaper mat and later find out you really enjoy yoga, you can also use the thinner mat as your personal travel mat.
Yoga will go a long way into reducing stress and relaxation to your entire body. The meditative qualities will help expand your mind and increase your concentration. Choosing which of the thick yoga mats is for you is important and focusing on comfort is a big thing with yoga. If you are distracted or feel uncomfortable while doing yoga then the session will not be as beneficial as it could be. Yoga is a discipline that requires all of your attention and in order to receive the best results you need to have the right equipment and the right mentality, otherwise it will be more like a regular aerobics class than a mind altering experience.
