Regular exercise is critical to leading a wholesome life, and possessing the right equipment is imperative to achieving your health and fitness aspirations. A workout mat is a crucial apparatus offering a stable and comfortable base for various types of exercise. Regardless of whether you’re practicing yoga, Pilates, or strength training, a workout mat delivers the necessary padding and support to protect your joints and prevent potential harm.
When it comes to purchasing a workout mat, there are several factors to consider. The type of exercise you will be doing, the size of the mat, the thickness, and the material are all important considerations. For instance, if you are doing yoga or Pilates, you will want a mat that is thicker and provides more cushioning. On the other hand, if you are doing strength training, you may prefer a thinner mat that offers more stability.
Another critical factor to consider when purchasing a workout mat is the material. The material used to make the mat can affect its durability, texture, and grip. Some common materials used to make workout mats include PVC, rubber, and foam.
We spent hours researching and testing various workout mats to identify the ones that offer the best combination of comfort, stability, and durability. In the following sections, we will share our top picks for the best workout mats on the market.
Best Workout Mats
We know that having a comfortable and supportive workout mat is essential for any fitness routine. Whether you’re practicing yoga, doing a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout, or just stretching, a good mat can make all the difference. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best workout mats on Amazon. Our team of fitness experts has tested and researched various options to help you find the perfect mat for your needs. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best workout mats available on Amazon.
1. Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat 1″ Thick w/Nylon Strap
If you’re looking for a yoga mat that provides extra thickness and comfort, Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat is a great choice.
Pros
- The Solana Yoga Mat is extra thick, providing the utmost support and balance during your practice.
- The ribbed, no-slip, thick material keeps you steady and balanced while staying securely on the floor.
- The Solana Yoga Mat is durable and portable, equipped with a nylon carrying strap so you can easily transport it from your home practice to studio salutations.
Cons
- The Solana Yoga Mat may initially release a harmless odor.
- It’s difficult to roll and store due to its thickness.
- The Solana Yoga Mat does not come with a strap as promised, which is a necessity if you plan to transport it.
We’ve used the Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat for several workouts, and we found it to be very comfortable and supportive. The extra thickness provides cushioning for joints, hips, hands, and knees, making it perfect for yoga, Pilates, stretching, floor, and fitness workouts. The ribbed, no-slip material keeps you from slipping and sliding while you’re holding your poses, and the durable material allows for everyday use, regardless of the intensity of your exercise.
The Solana Yoga Mat is easy to clean and fresh for your next workout. Use a mix of gentle soap and water, wipe clean, and hang it to dry. Do not submerge.
Overall, if you’re looking for a yoga mat that provides extra thickness and comfort, we highly recommend the Retrospec Solana Yoga Mat.
2. Amazon Basics 1/2-Inch Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat Pink
If you’re looking for a reliable workout mat that is both comfortable and affordable, then we highly recommend the Amazon Basics 1/2-Inch Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat Pink.
Pros
- The 1/2 inch thickness provides ample cushioning and shock absorption for a comfortable workout experience.
- The textured surface provides extra traction, making it easier to maintain proper form during exercises.
- The mat is made of durable foam that can stretch and spring back into shape, ensuring that it will last for many workouts to come.
Cons
- The mat may have a strong smell when first unpacked, but this dissipates quickly with use.
- The mat may not be suitable for those who prefer a firmer surface for their workouts.
- The elastic strap for rolled-up mat storage may not be long enough for those with larger shoulders.
We have personally used this mat for a variety of workouts, including yoga, Pilates, and bodyweight exercises, and have found it to be a great choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and affordable workout mat. The 1/2 inch thickness provides ample cushioning for joints, while the textured surface helps to prevent slipping and sliding during exercises.
One thing to note is that the mat may have a strong smell when first unpacked, but we found that this dissipates quickly with use. Additionally, the elastic strap for rolled-up mat storage is a convenient feature, but it may not be long enough for those with larger shoulders.
Overall, we highly recommend the Amazon Basics 1/2-Inch Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat Pink for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable workout mat that provides ample cushioning and traction for a variety of exercises.
3. BalanceFrom All Purpose Yoga Mat
We highly recommend the BalanceFrom All Purpose Yoga Mat for anyone in need of a durable and comfortable mat for their workouts.
Pros
- The extra thickness and high-density foam provide excellent cushioning and support for joints during workouts.
- The included knee pad is a great addition for those who need extra support for their knees.
- The carrying strap makes it easy to transport and store the mat.
Cons
- The mat may have a slight odor when first opened, but it dissipates quickly.
- The surface of the mat may be a bit slippery at first, but improves with use.
- The mat may be a bit heavy for some users to carry around.
We have been using this mat for several weeks now and are impressed with its quality and durability. The extra thickness and high-density foam make it comfortable to use for a variety of workouts, including yoga, Pilates, and strength training. The included knee pad is a great addition for those who need extra support for their knees during exercises.
The carrying strap makes it easy to transport the mat to and from workouts, and the mat itself is easy to clean with just soap and water. The only minor downside is that the mat may have a slight odor when first opened, but it dissipates quickly with use.
Overall, we highly recommend the BalanceFrom All Purpose Yoga Mat for anyone in need of a comfortable and durable mat for their workouts. It provides excellent support and cushioning, and the included knee pad and carrying strap make it a great value.
4. BalanceFrom All Purpose 1-Inch Extra Thick High Density Anti-Tear Exercise Yoga Mat
If you’re looking for a comfortable and durable workout mat, the BalanceFrom All Purpose 1-Inch Extra Thick High Density Anti-Tear Exercise Yoga Mat is a great option.
Pros
- The 1” thick foam material provides excellent cushioning for your spine, hips, knees, and elbows on hard floors.
- The double-sided non-slip surfaces prevent injuries and provide a slip-resistant advantage.
- It has exceptional resilience, allowing you to keep your balance during any exercise style.
Cons
- The mat is quite large when rolled up, making it difficult to fit in a typical yoga mat carrying bag.
- The thickness of the mat can impair balance during certain exercises.
- It may be a bit wobbly on certain surfaces.
We recently tried out this mat and were impressed with its high quality and comfort. The foam material is thick and provides excellent cushioning, making it comfortable to use for extended periods of time. The non-slip surfaces also worked well, preventing any slips or injuries during our workouts. The mat was easy to clean with soap and water, and the included yoga mat strap made it convenient to transport.
However, we did find that the mat was quite large when rolled up, making it difficult to fit in a typical yoga mat carrying bag. Additionally, the thickness of the mat can impair balance during certain exercises, so it may not be the best choice for those looking for a more stable surface. Finally, we found that the mat was a bit wobbly on certain surfaces, which may be a concern for some users.
Overall, we would highly recommend the BalanceFrom All Purpose 1-Inch Extra Thick High Density Anti-Tear Exercise Yoga Mat for anyone looking for a comfortable and durable workout mat.
5. ProsourceFit Tri-Fold Folding Exercise Mat
If you’re looking for a versatile workout mat that can be used for various forms of training, the ProsourceFit Tri-Fold Folding Exercise Mat is a great choice.
Pros
- The tri-fold design makes it easy to store and carry with two carrying handles, making it perfect for fitness on-the-go.
- The thick cushion provides a supportive surface for gymnastics, workouts, stretching, martial arts, or outdoor workout routines.
- The resilient foam interior keeps its shape for long-term usability and protects knees, wrists, elbows, and back.
Cons
- The mat is only available in five color options.
- The vinyl surface can be slippery when used with socks or bare feet.
- The mat may not be thick enough for some users who require extra cushioning.
We recently purchased the ProsourceFit Tri-Fold Folding Exercise Mat for our at-home workouts, and we’ve been impressed with its durability and versatility. The mat is easy to transport and store thanks to its tri-fold design and carrying handles, and it provides ample cushioning for a variety of exercises.
One thing to note is that the vinyl surface can be slippery when used with socks or bare feet, so we recommend wearing shoes or using a grippy mat if you plan to do any exercises that require traction. Additionally, while the mat is thick enough for most users, those who require extra cushioning may want to consider a thicker mat.
Overall, we highly recommend the ProsourceFit Tri-Fold Folding Exercise Mat for anyone looking for a durable, versatile workout mat that can be used for a variety of exercises.
6. BalanceFrom Three Fold Folding Exercise Mat
If you’re looking for a workout mat that can handle a variety of exercises, the BalanceFrom Three Fold Folding Exercise Mat is a great option.
Pros
- The 1.5-inch thick high-density EPE foam provides excellent support and cushioning for a variety of exercises, including yoga, aerobics, Pilates, MMA, and martial arts.
- The non-toxic, puncture-resistant vinyl surface is easy to clean and moisture-resistant, making it ideal for sweaty workouts.
- The foldable, three-panel design and carrying handles make it easy to store and transport.
Cons
- Some users may find the 6-foot length to be too short for certain exercises.
- The mat may have a slight odor when first unpacked, but this should dissipate after a few days.
- The vinyl surface may be slippery for some users, especially during hot yoga or other sweaty workouts.
We’ve found the BalanceFrom Three Fold Folding Exercise Mat to be a versatile and durable option for a variety of workouts. The thick foam provides ample cushioning and support, while the vinyl surface is easy to clean and moisture-resistant. The foldable design makes it easy to store and transport, and the carrying handles are a convenient touch. While some users may find the 6-foot length to be too short for certain exercises, we’ve found it to be sufficient for most workouts. Overall, we recommend the BalanceFrom Three Fold Folding Exercise Mat for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable workout mat.
7. anngrowy Exercise Mat 6’x4′
If you’re looking for a durable workout mat that can withstand high impacts and provide ample cushioning, the anngrowy Exercise Mat 6’x4′ is a great option for you.
Pros
- The upgraded abrasion-resistant no-slip padding prevents tears and scratches, making it easy to wipe clean after use.
- The 7mm thick foam provides excellent shock absorption, protecting your joints during workouts.
- The large size (6’x4′) offers plenty of space to move around and workout comfortably.
Cons
- The mat is a bit hard, which may not be ideal for those looking for a softer surface to workout on.
- Some users have reported a strong chemical smell upon opening the package.
- The mat may not be suitable for those looking for a more portable option, as it is quite heavy.
We’ve been using the anngrowy Exercise Mat 6’x4′ in our home gym for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its durability and cushioning. The top layer of the mat is made from a smart PVC material that is resistant to tears and scratches, while the bottom features a circle-pattern design that prevents the mat from sliding around during use. The 7mm thick foam provides excellent shock absorption, making it comfortable to do high-impact exercises like jumping jacks and burpees.
One of the standout features of this mat is its size. At 6’x4′, it offers plenty of space to move around and workout comfortably, even with a partner. The mat is also shoe-friendly, so you don’t have to worry about damaging it with your sneakers.
While we appreciate the durability and cushioning of the anngrowy Exercise Mat 6’x4′, we do wish it was a bit softer. Some users may find the mat to be too hard for their liking. Additionally, there is a strong chemical smell upon opening the package, which may be off-putting to some. Finally, the mat is quite heavy, which may make it difficult to move around or store when not in use.
Overall, if you’re looking for a durable and cushioned workout mat that offers plenty of space to move around, the anngrowy Exercise Mat 6’x4′ is definitely worth considering.
8. TONINT Exercise Equipment Mat
This is a great mat for anyone who wants to protect their floors while working out. It’s easy to clean and waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about sweat or water damaging your floors. Plus, it’s non-slipping, so you won’t have to worry about your equipment sliding around while you’re exercising.
Pros
- The mat is non-slipping, preventing equipment from sliding around while in use.
- It’s noise-reducing, absorbing vibration and noise caused by cardio equipment.
- The mat is waterproof and easy to clean, preventing sweat or water drops from damaging wood floors.
Cons
- The mat comes folded, which can be annoying for those using it for exercises.
- The smell can be unpleasant at first, but it dissipates over time.
- The bag that comes with the mat is not very durable.
We recently purchased the TONINT Exercise Equipment Mat for our home gym and have been very pleased with it. The mat is made of good quality PVC material that is water and oil proof, making it easy to clean with soap and water. We appreciate that it comes with a storage bag and sports towel for added convenience.
The mat stays firmly on the tiles and floors, preventing our stationary bike and trainer from slipping while in use. We also appreciate that it’s noise-reducing, absorbing vibration and noise caused by cardio equipment, so we don’t have to worry about bothering our family and neighbors.
One downside is that the mat comes folded, which can be annoying for those using it for exercises. However, we found that the creases eventually flattened out over time. Additionally, the bag that comes with the mat is not very durable, but it’s still a nice added bonus.
Overall, we highly recommend the TONINT Exercise Equipment Mat for anyone looking to protect their floors while working out. It’s a great investment for any home gym setup.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best workout mat, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve put together a list of important factors to help you make an informed decision.
Material
The material of the workout mat is an important factor to consider. You want a mat that is durable and easy to clean. PVC, rubber, and foam are popular materials for workout mats. PVC mats are affordable and easy to clean, but they may not be as durable as rubber or foam mats. Rubber mats are durable and provide excellent grip, but they may be more expensive. Foam mats are lightweight and affordable, but they may not be as durable as other materials.
Thickness
The thickness of the workout mat is another important factor to consider. Thicker mats provide more cushioning and support, which can be beneficial for exercises that require you to be on your hands and knees. However, thicker mats may not be as stable as thinner mats, which can be a concern for balance exercises. A mat that is 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch thick is a good choice for most workouts.
Size
The size of the workout mat is also important. You want a mat that is large enough to accommodate your movements, but not so large that it takes up too much space. A mat that is at least 72 inches long and 24 inches wide is a good choice for most people.
Texture
The texture of the workout mat can affect your grip and comfort during your workout. Mats with a textured surface provide better grip, which can be beneficial for exercises that require you to maintain your balance. Smooth mats may be more comfortable, but they may not provide as much grip.
Portability
If you plan on taking your workout mat with you to the gym or to outdoor workouts, portability is an important factor to consider. Look for a mat that is lightweight and easy to roll up or fold for storage.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best workout mat for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best exercise mat on the market?
There are many great exercise mats on the market, but the best one for you will depend on your specific needs. Some popular options include the Manduka ProLite Yoga and Pilates Mat, the Liforme Yoga Mat, and the Jade Harmony Professional Yoga Mat.
What is the best thickness for a training mat?
The best thickness for a training mat depends on your personal preference and the type of exercises you will be doing. Generally, a thickness of 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch is suitable for most exercises.
Are workout mats worth it?
Yes, workout mats are definitely worth the investment. They provide a comfortable and safe surface for exercising, protect your floors from damage, and can help improve your overall workout experience.
What is the difference between a training mat and a yoga mat?
While both training mats and yoga mats are designed for use during exercise, there are some differences between the two. Training mats are typically thicker and provide more cushioning, making them ideal for high-impact exercises. Yoga mats, on the other hand, are thinner and provide better grip, making them ideal for yoga and other low-impact exercises.
What are some non-slip exercise mats?
Some great non-slip exercise mats include the Manduka ProLite Yoga and Pilates Mat, the Liforme Yoga Mat, and the Jade Harmony Professional Yoga Mat.
What are some thick exercise mats for hardwood floors?
If you have hardwood floors and are looking for a thick exercise mat, some good options include the HemingWeigh Extra Thick Foam Exercise Mat, the ProsourceFit Extra Thick Yoga and Pilates Mat, and the BalanceFrom GoFit All-Purpose Exercise Mat.
