If you’ve experienced taking classes in fitness studios or watched people do their workouts, then you’ve probably noticed that many people choose to use workout mats. Well, workout mats are not necessary, but a lot of people prefer to use them. It’s because mats are really useful throughout the execution of many exercises.
There are also different kinds of workout mats, and each of them serves a different purpose. When you visit a fitness store, you’ll be able to find different types, colors, and styles of workout mats. You can even buy online and get it delivered to your doorstep if you do not want to go out.
If you are working out at home or at the gym, there are lots of exercises you can do without a mat. But a mat is also one of the useful things that you might consider having when you work out, as it comes with a lot of benefits, especially for beginners. If you are wondering about the good things that workout mats can give, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we are giving you a list of the benefits of using workout mats, and we’ll also share with you a great workout idea.
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When to Consider Using Workout Mats
Before we give you the benefits of using workout mats, we are going to let you know first the instances that they are useful. It’s because they are not necessary for all situations, but they are helpful in some especially for the beginner workout. Here are some of the situations where a workout mat is handy.
- Floor Workouts
Workout mats are very useful if your workout routine is performed on the floor. This is common with core workouts where people are required to lay on their backs or put their forearms on the floor. It is nice to have a cushion between you and the floor, whether you’re on your hands or on your back. It is also helpful for beginners who are looking into modifying exercises. Therefore, if you are going to work your core or you have the need for modifications, then workout mats will be very useful for you.
- Yoga
Aside from core exercises, workout mats are also useful when doing yoga. It’s because yoga involves constant movement and deep stretches that call for stillness. This means that you need a mat that has a firm grip and a stable surface. This is also the reason why yoga mats are thinner compared to other workout mats. And they are usually made of materials with non-slip finish, so you can keep your poses without sliding or slipping.
Benefits of Workout Mats
After knowing when workout mats are useful, here are the different benefits that you can get from using one.
- Comfort: Using a workout mat provides some extra padding between your body and the ground. This is very useful to those whose knees, wrists, and hips are sensitive to hard surfaces, and as well as heavy loads.
- Cleanliness: There are people who really don’t mind getting dirty when they workout. However, if you’re one of the people who prefer to keep a layer of protection between you and the floor, then a workout mat is definitely perfect for you. But you also need to clean the mat after using it.
- Support and Safety: Workout mats can also provide you with support and safety, especially when you are exercising on a slippery surface or floor. It can help you in balancing and stabilizing your body. When you find the right type of workout mat, it will ensure that your body stays in place, no matter what position, exercise, or pose you are in.
- Space: A workout mat can also provide you space, especially when attending classes or working out in a gym with other people. It can serve as a separation between your personal workspace and the space of other people. You can also place other exercise equipment you have tightly around the mat to give room for more exercisers.
When Workout Mats are Not Necessary
As mentioned earlier, workout mats are useful for certain types of exercises and workouts. However, it does not mean they are important to your fitness routine. Here are some of the exercises that workout mats are not necessary.
- Standing or Seated Exercises: There are strength exercises that do not require the use of mats. These include exercises for the arms, shoulders, and back, which are done while standing or sitting on a bench or chair.
- Suspension Training: Suspension training is done using a suspension trainer that is attached to a door, hooked to a supportive surface, or looped around a tree. After that, you’re ready to go, and there’s no mat needed to be used.
- Cardio Workouts: Cardio workouts such as running, biking, walking, and swimming obviously does not need workout mats.
- Home or Nature Workouts: If you have a carpeted floor in your living room or bedroom where you wish to do your workouts, then there’s no need for you to use a mat. Just make sure that the floor is clean and dust-free. This goes the same with working out outdoors. For example, if you workout at parks, then the grass can be your natural cushion. But you can still use a workout mat if you do not want to lay down on the grass.
Is Using a Workout Mat Right for You?
After knowing the benefits that you can get from using workout mats, maybe you now know the answer if you need one. It mainly depends on the type of workout you usually do, and as well as your level of experience. But whether you need it or not, it is still proven that workout mats are indeed beneficial, that’s why a lot of people prefer to use them when working out.