When was the last time you pitched a yoga mat that did not fit the bill? It is probably too thin, too small, or simply painful for your practice in some way.
This is a familiar issue among many people, whether they exercise actively and practice yoga for several weeks or months or have been practicing it for years.
Choosing the right dimension of a yoga mat determines your performance based on the comfort you feel while posing and using it in general.
But don’t worry! Arming oneself with the right information, and choosing the right mat is very easy.
Here you will find all the necessary information about yoga mat dimensions and in this guide, we will lead you step by step to help you select the best one for you.
Next up on why yoga mat dimensions matter, what the specific dimension means, and what it offers to your performance when you roll out a yoga mat.
Why Do Yoga Mat Dimensions Matter?
Manduka Pro yoga mat or the Gaiam yoga mat or any other yoga mat you use – the issue of size and thickness can greatly influence this.
Selecting an apt mat can give added comfort, balance, and spines which can improve your sessions instead of being a disadvantage.
What Is the Standard Yoga Mat Size?
It is interesting to note that despite the variety of yoga mat brands and models available on the market, they have a traditional size which is 68” in length and 24” in width.
A regular yoga mat’s length is usually 68 inches and width about 24 inches. This is a good station for most people, especially beginners.
Still, the taller person may have to search for a bigger size of the mat because the standard size may be insufficient when stretching or posing.
If you are above 183 cm tall, therefore, it would be wise to go for a mat that is 183 cm long or longer. [1]
Thickness for Yoga Mat: Why It’s Crucial
The thickness of the yoga mat is an important factor in the comfort and cushioning of the exercise.
The thickness of mats usually varies from 1/16 to 1/4 inch; however, mats with thicker specifications are even softer.
However, thicker mats provide cushioning making it difficult to balance, especially in the standing postures.
If you do restorative or gentle yoga, the most comfortable mat with additional thickness is the Manduka Pro yoga mat famous for extra padding.
For poses that involve more standing yoga poses and balance things, then it would be necessary to use thin exercise mats.
Manduka Yoga Mats: High quality and Enduring nature
Looking at the best yoga mats, there is no question that Manduka provides some of the most superior kinds of mats.
The Manduka Pro yoga mat is highly valued for its sturdiness, stickiness and density which accommodates many types of yoga practices.
In case you are a frequent practitioner, such as I am, then it is worth it to spend a few bucks on a mat like this one.
How to Choose the Right Yoga Mat Dimensions
When selecting your mat, there are a few key factors to consider:
Height: Men and women with above-average height should consider getting a large yoga mat since they may feel over the mat when performing some of the stretching exercises.
Yoga Style: Another factor is the type of yoga you practice. All these types influence your decision because of the poses that you take.
For instance, restorative yoga practice may call for a thicker cushion than Vinyasa yoga which needs a thin cushion so as not to slip.
Portability: If you are in need of a mat with which you could take to and from the studio as well as need a small-sized mat, then ensure that these mats are not very heavy.
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Gaiam Yoga Mats: A Budget-Friendly Option
Gaiam yoga mats come in a wide range of basic models, which will suit both beginners and those who need an inexpensive accessory for their classes.
These mats are available in all sorts of dimensions and thicknesses and thus it is suitable for beginners who do not want to rush into buying the high-end ones such as the Manduka. [2]
Tips for Choosing the Best Yoga Mat
- Test the Grip: A top-tier mat that offers a good grip is important in posing and will not see you slip off mid-way.
- Check the Durability: One gets to spend less in the long end as a long-lasting mat is more economical.
- Consider Eco-Friendliness: Most manufacturers, including Manduka, have natural yoga mats that are environmentally friendly and made from natural products.
Case study:
Yogawithmartha: Invest on a real yoga mat rather than a workout mat. For yoga, the fitness ones are too thick and mushy. To offer my knees extra padding, I like the Gaiam 5mm, but the 3mm is also fine.
VeryFit Life Final Words
Before going out to shop for a yoga mat let me help you make a wise decision by guiding you through the right yoga mat to choose.
Deciding on the right dimensions of the Yoga mat might seem arcane, but it is one of the decisions that can change your practice for the better.
Based on the recommendations above it may be noted that it is always advisable to select a yoga mat that will be specific to size, practice style, and your budget; in this regard, we have the Manduka Pro yoga mat, a large yoga mat, and Gaiam yoga mat.
By investing in the correct mat, not only are you more comfortable but also more like-minded in your practice.
FAQs
What is the standard yoga mat size?
The standard yoga mat size is 68 inches long and 24 inches wide. This size works well for most people.
However, if you’re taller than 6 feet, you may want to consider a larger mat for better coverage.
How thick should a yoga mat be?
The thickness of a yoga mat depends on your comfort level. A typical mat is about 1/8 inch (3mm) thick.
For more cushion, especially if you have joint pain or prefer extra support, a mat around 1/4 inch (6mm) or more might be ideal.
The Manduka Pro yoga mat is an excellent choice for extra thickness and durability.
What is the best mat size for tall people?
If you’re taller than 6 feet, look for a large yoga mat that’s at least 72-74 inches long or even longer. The Manduka yoga mats often come in larger sizes that can accommodate taller individuals.
Are thicker mats better for beginners?
Yes, thicker mats can be more comfortable for beginners. They offer more cushion, which is helpful if you’re just starting and need extra support during your poses. However, very thick mats can sometimes make it harder to maintain balance.
Source:
Utermoehl, J. (2023, May 23). Yoga Mat Dimensions: Your Essential guide. Asivana Yoga.
Berkey, A. (2024, October 8). We found the 10 best yoga mats after testing over 26 options. Verywell Fit.
Disclaimer: The content provided on this site is intended for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program, particularly if you have pre-existing medical conditions or concerns. The website and its creators are not responsible for any injuries, damages, or adverse effects that may result from using the information provided. Use of this website constitutes acceptance of these terms.
