Some Like it Thick (Their Yoga Mats, That Is)

The yoga mat is an essential accessory/equipment for the serious yoga practitioner. It helps you to anchor yourself somewhat to the floor as you attempt to do your poses.

When talk to comes to the subject the thickness of yoga mats, I find that people really have their preferences. The standard-issue yoga mats have a lot of fans, of course. They’re super lightweight, easy to tote around, and it gives you a better feel of the floor (some people like that).

For some other people, a thick yoga mat (or an extra thick yoga mat, even) does the trick. Traditional yoga mats average around 1/8” in thickness, while thick or extra thick yoga mats are a rather thick at double that thickness. Beginners would likely appreciate thick yoga mats because they provide more traction and support as their hands and feet softly sink into the mat. Beginners are less steady and more likely to move around and are therefore of thinner yoga mats. The cushioning a thicker mat provides help them keep a stable and steady yoga posture. They are also more comfortable and help the individual adapt to new, more complex positions.

Another thing about having a thick or extra thick yoga mat is the added durability it has. These yoga mats, because they are thicker than standard, can withstand the abuse that the ordinary yoga mat can take. Cleaning thick yoga mats is easier as well, because you are not constantly barraged with thoughts of accidentally tearing your yoga mat and having to buy a new one. Many people who started with a thick yoga mat tend to stay with them since they are so comfortable. Of course, some have graduated to thinner yoga mats as well, but that is their choice.

If you feel like you’ve been having a bit of a challenging time with your usual yoga mat, why don’t you give a thick yoga mat a try? If that still is not enough for you, give an extra thick yoga mat a try. Who knows, that may be the key to your yoga success.