Pilates Mats – A Dummies Guide to Pilates Mats
By Rick Webb
There are many different Pilates mats available, though if you have got as far as choosing a mat, then you’ve already discovered the benefits of Pilates.
A decent mat is crucial, and actually the main piece of Pilates exercise equipment necessary to begin enjoying home Pilates. Stick on Pilates DVD or follow the exercises in a book and you’re away…
You may be a beginner who wants a mat to take to the gym or practice at home, work or on business travel; or a more advanced practitioner who has a better idea of the mat you are looking to buy.
The good news is it’s not actually that complicated. Whilst there are many styles and varieties available, a Pilates mat is a versatile tool and it really boils down to your personal preference of comfort and support. If you are more fashion conscious, you may want something stylish, but mostly you will be looking for something you can carry around; whilst at the same time ensuring you are not causing any harm to the planet. A buyers’ checklist looks like this:
- Is it good quality?
- Is it the right size (long enough and wide enough)?
- Is it comfortable (warm and soft)?
- Is it durable?
- Is it eco friendly?
- Is it lightweight and easy to carry?
- Is it kind to both body and skin (especially of you have sensitive skin)?
- Is it non-slip?
Answer yes to these questions, and you are nearly there…
It is worth knowing that Pilates mats differ slightly from yoga mats in that they are a little thicker. In Pilates classes, time is spent on the floor supporting the body’s weight on pressure points. It is therefore vital that the there is sufficient cushioning to protect the spine and other vulnerable areas. As such, it is recommended that your Pilates mat should be at least ½” thick, though many prefer them even thicker. As a rule, Yoga mats tend to be thinner than Pilates mats and are often stickier.
It is advisable to avoid the standard budget mats than are thin, cheaply made and lack cushioning. Many of these mats are made of chemically-softened plastics, and not only do they smell like a leak at a chemicals factory, they are also damaging to the environment.
There are more eco-friendly mats made of jute and cork and whilst these are comfortable, by nature they are porous and may absorb sweat faster than other materials, become smelly rather quickly and will not last as long.
The best bet is to invest in a rubber mat, though do check the rubber is natural and from sustainable sources. These mats are durable, affordable sustainable and washable.
Like many things, you get what you pay for. Even a top quality Pilates mat costs less than most gym memberships. Above all, remember that you only get one spine. Ensure you protect yours by buying the right Pilates mat.
Rick is a professional buyer, and Pilates enthusiast. Unfortunately he is also a food enthusiast, so often takes one step forward and two steps back. As he leads a busy life, and enjoys Rock Climbing, Pilates is perfect for building strength balance and coordination and can be practised just about anywhere. If only walls had eyes as he practises in hotel rooms all over the world…
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2 Responses to Pilates Mats – A Dummies Guide to Pilates Mats
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I have fallen away from my yoga routine and I use to practice it religiously in particular bikram yoga. Since I had children it has been so hard to get back on track. Reading this has motivate to start again and try out something new like pilates. I heard it tones your body much better. Time for a new mat and outfit!
Leslie
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