The Best Yoga Mats for Beginners
If you are new to yoga, you may wonder what type of yoga mat you should buy. There are so many different types and brands of yoga mats on the market.
Challenging to know which one is right for you. This blog post will discuss the best yoga mats for beginners and provide some tips on choosing the right one.
Top Picks: The Best Yoga Mats for Beginners
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Yoga Mats for Beginners
1. Ewedoo Beginners Yoga Mat
Beginners will like the Ewedoo Yoga Mat. The marks on this mat indicate that it was created expressly to assist newcomers in learning some key exercises. The helpful alignment lines painted on the surface provide you with support as you move through each yoga practice.
This yoga mat is good for beginners. It has a thickness of 1/4 inch, which will help protect your knees during your workouts. It is also a high-quality mat that you can use for fitness activities.
Beginners will like the Ewedoo Yoga Mat. The marks on this mat indicate that it was created expressly to assist newcomers in learning some key exercises. The helpful alignment lines painted on the surface provide you with support as you move through each yoga practice. This is a great option for the best yoga mats for beginners because it is eco-friendly and appropriate for those who value a high-quality product that is also good for the environment.
It is also available in a wide range of colors, so you can choose the perfect color for you.
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2. CopyCat Instructional Yoga Mat for Beginners
This yoga mat is a great option for beginners because it has markings to help you get your placement right and images of key movements.
This is one of our top choices for the best yoga mats for beginners because it offers a lot of support for someone starting out with yoga.
This yoga mat is made of high-quality material, but it doesn’t say whether it’s eco-conscious. This isn’t a decent yoga mat for beginners because thicker mats are available that are better for exercises and persons with sore knees.
This yoga mat is more expensive than some other options. Still, we believe it is a great choice for beginners because of the helpful markings and great quality. Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for the finest yoga mat for beginners.
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3. Gaiam Yoga Mat
Gaiam yoga mats are a great choice for beginners. They’re made from a thick material that makes them comfortable to use, and the grip and non-slip qualities help keep you in place.
This mat is light and easy to fold up and store away when you’re done using it or when you need to take it home. It’s also simple to roll up and carry around.
The Gaiam yoga mat is a good choice because it comes in many different designs. You can choose a design that makes you look great when you’re doing yoga or one that you just like the look of.
This yoga mat is special because it is non-toxic and good for the environment. It also comes with a lifetime guarantee. Plus, there’s a free yoga workout that you can download. This is great if you’re just starting out.
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4. Amazon Basic 1/2 inch Yoga Mat
This yoga mat is our second choice for beginners. It has a 1/2 inch cushioning carry strap and is made from durable yoga mat material. Plus, it’s very affordable.
The 1/2 inch thickness is good for people who kneel a lot. This way, their knees, and hands will be protected from any pain. The carry strap makes it easy to roll up the mat and put it away when you’re done. You can also take it in your car when you go to a yoga class.
This mat is a good value. It costs around $19, which is not too expensive. This is a good choice if you are just starting out and want a mat that will help you learn the basics of yoga. And if you decide that yoga is not for you, you have not spent a lot of money on a pro mat.
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5. Balance From Extra Thick Yoga Mat
This mat is great for beginners because it has one-inch cushioning. If you have sore knees when doing yoga or working out, this mat is perfect for you.
This yoga mat is thick and durable. It will give you a good grip, and it should last you a long time. This is a good mat for beginners because they can rely on it.
This yoga mat is easy to carry around because it has straps. It is also easy to store away. This is good because the yoga mat is thicker than other mats, so it will be bulkier. When evaluating whether or not this yoga mat is suitable for you, keep this in mind.
This yoga mat is thick and of good quality. The price is also reasonable. It’s the ideal yoga mat for people new to yoga who want a softer mat.
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6. TOPLUS Pro Yoga Mat
Anyone can benefit from the PLUS Pro yoga mat. It’s made of high-quality, durable material. It includes a non-slip fabric that is ideal for both expert and beginner yogis. It can also resist strenuous exercise.
The material is also environmentally friendly, making it a great choice for the environmentally-conscious buyer.
This yoga mat has a one-year warranty, which gives you peace of mind that it will be in good condition for a long time. Although the pricing is greater than some other yoga mats, you pay for the superior fabric quality. This is critical during workouts.
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7. Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat
Retrospec makes some of the best yoga mats around. They have great reviews, and their Solana yoga mat is a good value at $18.99.
This yoga mat is of good quality. People like it because of the good reviews and the material. The thickness is good for beginners, and the price is great.
It’s also available in various colors, so you can pick something that looks good.
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How to Choose the Best Yoga Mat for Beginners
When picking out a yoga mat for beginners, it is important to test different products and see which one meets some key criteria.
The following qualities are unique to the needs of a new yogi:
- Material quality – When looking for a yoga mat for beginners, it is important to find one with good material. This means the mat needs to be durable and strong and have a surface that helps you stay in your poses. It is also helpful if the material is waterproof, so you can easily clean it if you sweat.
- The thickness of the material – If you’re looking for a beginner’s yoga mat, thickness is crucial. The thicker the material is when you’re in a yoga posture or working out, the more padding you’ll have for your knees and feet.
- Is it eco-conscious? – When looking for the best yoga mat for beginners, it’s important to find something eco-conscious. Many yogis are very aware of their impact on the planet, so it was important to us when we were looking for a yoga mat.
- What support can it offer a beginner? –If you are looking for the best yoga mat for beginners, it is important to find one that offers more than just an average product. This could mean extra thickness, helpful alignment markings, or even grip. Make sure the yoga mat you choose has everything a beginner needs.
- Price and value – When you start out, it is important to get your money’s worth. This does not always mean the cheapest yoga mat, but you will be spending your money in the right place if you read our review.
Top Yoga Mats For Beginners Reviewed
Finding the right yoga mat is important for your mental and physical well-being. A mat that is too sticky can interrupt your flow in a Vinyasa sequence. While a mat with not enough grip can cause injury when in the middle of a set of Bikram classes.
To help you choose the best yoga mat for you, Live Science has tested and assessed a range of yoga mats across several price categories.
Your emotional and physical well-being can be improved by practicing yoga. A study published in the European Journal of Integrative Medicine in 2019 suggests that yoga might help heart-failure patients when used together with drug therapy. Another study indicates that yoga adults have a reduced risk for cardiovascular disease and metabolic-related illnesses. Yoga can also help improve your flexibility, build muscle, burn calories, lower blood pressure and boost your posture and bone density.
However, the yoga mat you choose can greatly influence your yoga workouts and the benefits you gain from them. These mats come in different sizes, shapes, and thicknesses. They are made from different materials like eco-friendly or vegan materials. Some mats are easier to transport than others.
There are many different yoga mats on the market. This article will tell you about the best yoga mats for people new to yoga, experienced yogis, and those on a budget.
1. Manduka PRO Yoga Mat
The Manduka PRO mat is a great choice for people who do yoga. It is high quality and will last a long time. The dot pattern on the mat helps keep your hands and feet in place, and it is not too sticky, so you can move easily between poses.
Although this mat is made of P.V.C. (a type of plastic that we usually don’t recommend). It is a non-toxic form of P.V.C. that has been certified as safe by STANDARD 100 OEKO-TEX. This means it doesn’t contain any harmful substances. These mats are manufactured in a sustainable facility in Germany. They don’t have a chemical smell, and they don’t make me feel sick. The material is also closed-cell, keeping moisture out and making cleaning easy.
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2. Heathyoga Non-Slip Yoga Mat
This TPE foam mat is dense and comfortable. It is a great option for beginners or those with a latex allergy, and it’s super affordable at under $50.
This mat is large and wide. It has a diamond-shaped grip on top to keep you from slipping. The bottom is ultra-grippy and will stay in place on any flooring type. Without sinking in or denting the mat, your knees and wrists will be very comfortable on the dense foam. The mat is also stretchy, so it won’t tear against the resistance of the powerful Downward Dog. A carrying strap is included!
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3. Jade Travel Yoga Mat
If you like to do yoga in unusual places, like at the airport or in your hotel room, then the Jade Travel Yoga Mat is a good option. It is very lightweight and thin, but it has a lot of cushioning and density. It also comes in beautiful jewel tones.
This Jade Yoga mat is not toxic or synthetic. It is made in the U.S.A., and they even plant a tree for every mat sold! I like that this mat does not have a rubbery smell, and it is easy to clean. The downside is that it is very sticky and may hold onto dirt and dog hair.
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4. Jade Harmony Yoga Mat
Natural and environmentally friendly, the Harmony mat is a great choice. This mat is thicker and heavier than the travel version, weighing approximately 4.5 pounds. The grip and traction are so good that a yoga towel is nearly unnecessary. Things like this last for a very long time and will never let you down.
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5. CAMBIVO Wide Yoga Mat
The Cambivo Yoga Mat is longer and wider than standard yoga mats, making it more comfortable to use. It is made from a dense, foam-like material that is non-toxic and has double-sided non-slip surfaces. This mat is great for hardwood floors or other rigid studio surfaces.
This closed-cell foam yoga mat is easy to clean and great for hot yoga. It doesn’t let sweat or dirt through, which means it’s easy to keep clean. It’s also shock absorbent and affordable.
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6. Yoga Accessories Non-Slip Pilates and Yoga Mat
The YogaAccessories mat is of great value. It is made of high-quality foam and comes in a lot of colors. It will fit someone up to 6′ tall and roll up small for transport.
The foam is durable and tear-resistant. It is also free of latex, phthalates, and heavy metals. This means that you don’t have to worry about odor or chemical exposure.
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Build Your Practice on a Solid Foundation
Since the 1950s and 1960s, when famous yogis like Indra Devi, Sri Krishnamacharya, and B.K.S, Iyengar popularized yoga in the west, yoga has spread rapidly across the United States.
There are a wide variety of yoga styles available today. This can be confusing because there are a lot of Sanskrit words, and it can be hard to know which option is the best. There are also a lot of different yoga clothes and gear options, but not all of them are of good quality.
Just like the foundation of your house is important for keeping your home stable, the base of your yoga practice is very important. Suppose your mat is too flimsy, hard, slippery, smelly, toxic, difficult to clean, or fall apart. In that case, it will be harder to get all the benefits from yoga.
What to Look For in a Quality Yoga Mat
Not all yoga mats are the same. You need to find one that is good for your body and your reasons for doing yoga. You can find them at most big box stores, but make sure it is comfortable and functional for you.
- Mat Thickness
When looking for a yoga mat, you may be tempted to choose the thickest one. However, this is not always the best indicator of how comfortable or functional the mat will be.
Some yoga mats have a lot of foam. This foam can be ½ inch thick or more. It is comfortable for your joints, but it can also make it harder to balance on the mat. You don’t want your yoga mat to be too soft because you won’t be able to build balance, strength, and inner peace.
The density of a mat’s material is better to judge how well it will work.
- Material Density
Thinner, denser materials are typically better for beginner yogis. They won’t indent or stretch like soft mats, but they will still be comfortable for your knees, hands, or back.
- Common Yoga Mat Materials:
1. Natural Tree Rubber:
This is the most often encountered mat material. It is dense and ranges in thickness from 1.5mm to 3mm to 6mm. It provides cushion and support. It may have a smell from the rubber trees and maybe a problem for those with latex allergies.
2. Dense Foam:
Foam is a common material used in fitness products. It is good for beginners because it is affordable and durable. However, you need to ensure that the foam does not contain harmful chemicals like latex, P.V.C., or phthalates. If it does, the mat will smell bad and may make you feel sick.
3. TPE:
Thermoplastic elastomers are rubber-synthetic blended mats that are safer than P.V.C. They are non-toxic and less harmful to the environment. They also have a superior grip and are biodegradable in the long run.
4. P.V.C.:
Most cheap yoga mats at big box stores have polyvinyl chloride in them. We recommend avoiding them because of the toxic chemicals unless they are certified to be non-toxic.
- Non-Slip Grip
A yoga mat with a surface that sticks to your skin may be a good investment if you perform a lot of sweating or hot yoga. This will help you stay safe and have a more enjoyable experience.
The best yoga mats will have a sticky surface and light texturing to help hold you in place.
If you are on a budget, you can choose a less expensive mat and use a yoga towel to make your practice more stable.
- Durability
The material of your yoga mat will affect how long it lasts. Cheap P.V.C., plastic, and foam mats can tear and wear down in just a few months. When your hands and feet are constantly putting pressure and stretching certain parts of the mat, this can be a major issue for your practice. Nobody wants a ripped mat in the middle of Downward Dog.
On the other hand, dense natural rubber will last along. Some higher-quality eco-friendly foams will also be durable. Just because these materials are biodegradable (break down in a landfill under heat, pressure, and microbial activity) does not mean they will degrade in the yoga room.
Using a durable yoga mat protects both your body and the planet. It also means you can enjoy your practice for years to come.
- Style and Transport
There are many different types of yoga mats. You can find a mat that expresses your personal style and personality. There are even yoga mats with alignment guides, chakras, and mantras printed.
Some brands offer carrying straps or mats bags to make carrying and storing your mat easy.
- Yoga Mat Cleaner
You can create a simple yoga mat cleaner using diluted apple cider vinegar and essential oils. Add 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water in a spray bottle, then add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. You can also purchase yoga mat cleaners specifically made for this purpose.
Enjoy the Process
Now that you know what to look for in a yoga mat, it’s time to make a decision. Consider your budget and what type of practice you want before purchasing.
When you start doing yoga, it can be really hard to not worry about what you look like or if you are doing everything perfectly. But don’t worry! Over time, you will get better and better at it. Just enjoy the process and embrace the challenges along the way!
Most importantly, practice as much as you can.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Yoga Mat for Beginners
If you’re unsure where to begin, start with a mat that’s about 1/8-inch thick. Thick. These mats are ideal for yoga practitioners who have a powerful and fluid practice. They provide strong contact with the ground, which aids stability in a variety of stances.
Most people think that a thickness of half to one inch is perfect for most yoga mats. However, if you want more comfort, you can go for a thicker mat but not more than 1.5 inches. If the mat is too thick, you will not do some of the poses correctly.
The average yoga mat should be about 60 cm wide and 172-182 cm long. This is the size that people feel most comfortable practicing on. To convert this into height metrics, 172 cm is about 5’8″, while 182 cm is about 6 feet.
Like a 6 or 8mm, a thicker yoga mat gives more comfort and stability than the thinner mats. This could be important if you do a lot of standing or balance poses. If you want more comfort or practice yoga on uneven or hard surfaces, you may prefer a thicker mat.
The Lulu mat is easy to carry around because it rolls up well. It is also heavier than some other mats, but that is what makes it a good choice for people who want a mat that is not too soft. Reviewed tested many yoga mats and found that the Lulu mat was the best one.
Thick yoga mats are usually the most popular type of yoga mats. They are more durable and comfortable than thinner mats. They can be used for most types of yoga and exercises.
If you are looking for an accessory that can be used for many different workouts, the 3 mm yoga mat is a good choice. If you need more support and cushioning for your joints, the 5 mm yoga mat is a better option.
A good rule of thumb is to use a yoga mat at least six inches taller than you are. If you are taller, try an extra long yoga mat. If you have broad shoulders or desire additional room while practicing yoga, you might want to consider an 0extra-wide yoga mat.
Yoga mats are thinner than exercise mats and are designed for low-impact exercises like a natural rubber mat. The majority of yoga mats are in the middle of the hardness spectrum. On the other hand, exercise mats are thicker and give additional padding for individuals who do not want to get as near to the ground as possible.
Although it may not be strong enough, a yoga mat can be used for HIIT. You should select a carpet built for high-impact workouts to preserve your joints. These are usually made of PVC or foam, while yoga mats are generally made of natural rubber mats.
The yoga mat will protect the floor if you lift weights and drop one. In most gyms, you can see this by the thick mats on the floor in the weight-lifting area.
The best mat for hot yoga classes is one with natural rubber due to the humid and warm environment of hot yoga classes. Most foam mats or yoga towels won’t do this type of exercise. Also, most yoga instructors recommend using a reversible mat or dual-sided yoga mat for better traction when doing poses like a downward dog, etc.
If you’re not sure where to start, choose a mat that is about 1/8-in. Thick (or 3.175 mm). This thickness is good for people who have a strong and flowing practice. They allow solid contact with the floor, which helps with stability during various poses.
If you want to use a sticky mat, try a yoga mat made out of P.V.C. This material will last for more than 10 years with regular use. The amount of “give” or bounciness of the mat may vary depending on the materials used. Still, P.V.C. usually has more bounce than other materials like jute and cotton.
Most yoga mats are about 3 to 4 millimeters thick. This may be good for hard floors, but it is usually too thin for carpets or rugs because they are more likely to move and bunch up. A better option for a yoga mat in a carpeted space is around 6 millimeters thick.
Some experts prefer yoga mats made with P.V.C. material because they offer the right level of stickiness and a slightly softer texture. On the other hand, exercise mats are designed to be thicker so that people who do not want to feel close to the ground will be more comfortable.
You can use a yoga mat for HIIT, but it might not be thick enough to protect your joints. It is better to use a mat explicitly designed for high-impact workouts, usually made of P.V.C. or foam. Yoga mats are usually made of rubber.
Research suggests that yoga can help you manage stress, improve mood, and curb emotional eating. Yoga can also help you burn calories and increase your muscle mass and tone.
The best yoga mat thickness is the one you feel comfortable practicing with. For example, extra-thick mats (6mm+) can be great for sensitive joints, but they are not ideal for dynamic yoga practices. On the other hand, thick mats (6mm) can protect your joints well. Most people use average thickness mats (4-5mm).
A standard mat is about 3mm thick. This thickness is good for regular use and tricky poses because it is portable and stable.
Thick yoga mats are mostly chosen for their durability and comfort. They usually have a thickness of 10 mm or more, making them good for almost all types of yoga and exercises.
It is always a good idea to bring your own towel to a class, even if it is small. If you do not have a yoga blanket or towel, you can use a piece of your own clothing. It is best to fold the clothing up many times to place it under your pain area. Socks can also be used in this situation.
If you’re worried about slipping, look for one with rubberized backing. Make sure your carpet is thick enough to keep the mat in place, as this will assist keep it in place. If you find that the mat still moves around, try using a gripper or claw-type backing. You can also place a non-skid underlay underneath the mat to keep it in place.
Read more: How to Choose a Yoga Mat
