Whether you're a novice or a fitness expert, an exercise mat is essential to ensure your safety and comfort during workouts. With so many different types of mats available, it's important to choose one that meets your specific needs. The type of exercise you do and the amount of floor space you have will dictate what features are most important.
Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is a flexible, tough material that's used to make yoga and other types of exercise mats. It's a popular choice for gym mats because it provides the best balance of flexibility and durability. It's also non-toxic, which means it won't release toxic chemicals into the air during use.
When choosing a TPU fitness mat, it's important to consider the types of exercises you plan on doing and your level of expertise. For example, if you're an experienced yogi, you'll want a thicker, more supportive mat. On the other hand, beginners might prefer a thinner, more flexible mat.
A TPU fitness mat can be made out of various materials, including PVC, rubber and foam. PVC is the most common and often offers the best balance of flexibility, comfort and durability. It's also easy to clean and resistant to odors and bacteria. However, if you sweat a lot during your workouts, a rubber or jute mat might be more comfortable.
Another important consideration when choosing a TPU fitness mat is the environment. Some companies use biodegradable TPU, which is more sustainable than conventional PVC yoga mats. This type of TPU can degrade within three to five years, significantly reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.
If you're a beginner, you might prefer a thinner, more flexible mat that will allow you to move easily during your workouts. On the other hand, if you're an advanced yogi, you may find a thicker, more rigid mat to be more supportive for your joints.
Once you've decided on the type of exercise mat you want, it's time to start shopping! There are many different types of TPU fitness mats to choose from, so it's important to consider your specific needs and budget. You should also keep in mind the size of your space, as some mats are more portable than others. For example, if you have limited storage space, you might want to choose a folding TPU fitness mat. Otherwise, a larger, more permanent TPU fitness mat might be more suitable for your needs. Whichever type of TPU fitness mat you choose, remember to take care of it properly so it lasts longer.