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Why a yoga mat is important and what you should look for when buying one
Support, safety, appearance, environment and one's own sense of well-being, to name just a few points that are important in a yoga mat.
There are many different types of yoga mats on the market, varying in price and quality. When choosing a yoga mat, it is important to consider the type of yoga you do and your personal preferences. Some mats are more suitable for certain types of yoga than others.
For example, if you practice hot yoga or Bikram yoga, you should choose a mat that absorbs moisture and prevents slipping.
Yoga mats are made from a variety of materials, including natural rubber, PVC, TPE, jute and cotton. Some mats are specifically designed for yoga, others are all-purpose mats that can be used for any type of exercise.
The thickness of a yoga mat is also an important factor. Thinner mats are better for yoga that involves a lot of movement, while thicker mats provide more support and cushioning for yogis who prefer a slower practice.
No matter what type of yoga you practice, there is a yoga mat that is perfect for you. With so much choice on the market, it's important to do your research before you buy a yoga mat.
10 things that are decisive for the choice of your yoga mat
When choosing a yoga mat, there are a few things you should consider:
1. your yoga style
Different yoga mats are more suitable for different styles of yoga. Choose the right mat for your practice to ensure you get the best experience. For example, a non-slip mat is perfect for Power Yoga or Ashtanga, while a longer and wider mat is better for Hatha or Iyengar classes. A thinner mat is preferable for hot yoga classes, while a thicker mat provides more cushioning for restorative or yin yoga practices.
Ultimately, it is important to choose a yoga mat that feels comfortable and supportive under your body.
When it comes to yoga mats, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The type of yoga mat you choose should be based on your personal preferences and the style of yoga you practice. Since there are so many different types of yoga mats on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you.
Here is a quick guide to help you choose the best yoga mat for your yoga practice:
If you practice Power Yoga or Ashtanga, choose a non-slip mat that provides good support and allows you to move through your poses with ease.
If you practice Hatha Yoga or Iyengar Yoga, choose a longer and wider mat that offers plenty of space for movement.
If you practice Hot Yoga, choose a thinner mat that won't get too slippery when you start to sweat.
If you practice Restorative Yoga or Yin Yoga, a thicker mat that gives your body extra cushioning.
2. your personal preferences
Consider your own preferences and needs when choosing your yoga mat. For example, if you have a latex allergy, choose a mat that is latex-free. Consumer-friendly yogis may prefer a mat made from natural materials, such as natural rubber, hemp, jute, cork or bamboo. These mats tend to be a little more expensive than PVC mats, but they are just as slip-resistant and have a good grip for a dynamic yoga practice. If you care about your health and the environment, choose a mat made from 100% natural materials.
3. the price
Yoga mats can cost between €20 and €200. Choose the mat that fits your budget while meeting your needs. If you are a beginner, it is advisable to buy a cheap mat to see if you will actually use it before investing in a more expensive mat. However, if you practice yoga regularly, it's worth investing in a high-quality mat that will last longer and provide better support. Natural mats are usually more expensive than PVC mats, but they are more durable and environmentally friendly.
4. the material
Yoga mats are made from a variety of materials including natural rubber, PVC, TPE, jute and cotton. Again, consider your own preferences when it comes to materials.
Plastic yoga mats
Most yoga mats these days are made from synthetic materials. This is because they offer a number of advantages over natural materials such as bamboo or jute. For one, they are much easier to clean and tend to stay fresh longer.
They are also more durable and less prone to getting rips or holes. And finally, they usually offer better grip than natural materials, so they don't slip as easily when you're practising. Just make sure you clean them regularly and store them in a cool, dry place when you're not using them. While yoga mats made from synthetic materials offer a number of advantages over those made from natural materials, they can also contain harmful substances.
For example, many yoga mats made from synthetic materials contain toxic chemicals such as phthalates and BPA that off-gas. These chemicals can damage your health and even cause cancer. So if you use a yoga mat made of synthetic materials, watch out for these harmful substances and avoid those that contain them. If you decide to use a yoga mat made of synthetic materials, look for the "Oeko-Tex Standard 100" seal of approval and make sure it complies with Oeko-Tex product class 1.
This excludes or regulates the use of harmful substances such as pesticides, formaldehyde and softeners. Yoga mats made of PER (polyethersulfone) or TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) are a better choice because they offer cushioning and support. They are also durable and can last a long time with proper care. However, if you are looking for an environmentally friendly mat, look for mats made from natural rubber, jute or cotton. These materials are biodegradable and do not harm the environment.
Yoga mats made from natural materials
There are a variety of yoga mats made from natural materials on the market today. These mats are usually made from natural rubber, hemp, jute, cork or bamboo. They are environmentally friendly and provide good support for a dynamic yoga practice.Many of these mats are also latex-free, making them a good choice for people with latex allergies. Prices for these mats can vary, but they are generally more expensive than PVC yoga mats.
Natural rubber yoga mats are a good choice for people seeking an environmentally friendly and healthy yoga practice. These mats are made of 100% natural rubber and are latex-free. They offer good grip and are non-slip.
Cork yoga mats are made from a sustainable and renewable resource. Cork is collected without harming the tree and the bark grows back, making cork a sustainable choice. Yoga mats made from cork are also anti-microbial and offer good grip.
Bamboo yoga mats are also a sustainable and environmentally friendly choice. Bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource and these mats are often made from recycled bamboo. Bamboo is also antimicrobial and provides good grip.
Cotton yoga mats are usually less expensive than other types of yoga mats and have good grip and cushioning for a comfortable practice. They come in a variety of colours and patterns, and some even have a suede or microfibre surface for added comfort.
Cotton yoga mats are also they are machine washable and therefore easy to keep clean. However, they may not be as durable as other types of yoga mats and will need to be replaced more often.
Sustainable mats may be more expensive than other options, but they are a great eco-friendly choice for yogis who care about the environment.
5. thickness and weight
The weight and thickness of yoga mats is an important factor. They come in thicknesses from 3 mm to 25 mm and from 0.5 to 5 kilograms. Heavier and thicker mats offer more cushioning and stability and are therefore a good choice for yoga beginners or people with joint problems.
Lighter mats are suitable for experienced yogis who want more mobility and flexibility. Regardless of what type of yoga mat you want, make sure it is comfortable and provides the right level of support for your needs. The weight of the mat also plays a role, whether you carry it frequently from A to B or want to take it with you on your travels. The motto here is, the lighter the better.
6. the size
Yoga mats come in a variety of sizes. When choosing a mat size, consider the type of yoga you practice and your own size and width. If you are taller, you should choose a longer mat. If you practice styles of yoga that require a lot of movement or balance exercises, you should choose a wider mat.
7. the colours and patterns
Yoga mats come in a wide range of colours and patterns. Choose the colour that you like best or that suits your personality. Your own taste is the deciding factor here. Just keep in mind that you may use the mat for a few years, so it should not be just a fad.
8. the texture/surface
Yoga mats have different textures, from smooth to grippy to textured. Consider your own preferences when it comes to the texture of the mat. If you have difficulty keeping your balance, a mat with more grip may be beneficial. If you prefer a smoother surface, a mat with less grip may be better for you. Some mats even have raised grooves or patterns that provide extra grip.
9. care and cleaning
Most yoga mats can be cleaned with soap and water, but some require special care. Check the care instructions that come with your mat to find out what is best for it. Some mats can also be machine washed, but again it is best to read the care instructions first. In general, it is recommended to clean the yoga mat after each use to avoid the accumulation of sweat and dirt.
10. pollutants
Yoga mats can contain some harmful substances, such as PVC and phthalates. PVC is a known carcinogen and phthalates are endocrine disruptors. This means that they can disrupt the body's natural hormone production, which can lead to health problems.
Some yoga mats on the market are made of vinyl chloride with plasticisers. They are not as environmentally friendly as natural yoga mats, but they are cheaper and more durable. Vinyl chloride is carcinogenic and plasticisers are harmful to the environment. If you are looking for a less harmful alternative but are not willing to pay more for a natural yoga mat, you can look for a PVC-free yoga mat. These mats are made from other materials like TPE and are just as non-slip and grippy. If you care about your health and the environment, you should choose a natural yoga mat over a PVC mat.
Foam (EVA) yoga mats can contain formamide, which can affect fertility. PVC and phthalates are not the only harmful substances found in yoga mats - formamide is also found in some foam (EVA) mats. Formamide is a known reproductive toxin and exposure to this substance can lead to fertility problems.
Yoga mats made of natural rubber may contain carcinogenic nitrosamines due to a certain type of processing. However, the content of these nitrosamines is usually low and does not pose a significant health risk.
2-Phenyl-2-propanol is a synthetic organic compound used as an intermediate in the production of plastics. It is also used as a solvent and as a fragrance in cosmetics and household products. This substance may be present in latex proteins, which can cause allergy.
Some cotton yoga mats, for example, may be dyed with AZO dyes, which are banned because they can be toxic. Some of these dyes have been linked to cancer and others can cause skin irritation.
So if you're looking for an eco-friendly and healthy yoga mat, check the label carefully. Avoid mats coloured with AZO dyes and look for mats made from the following materials:
- Natural rubber,
- cotton,
- jute,
- hemp.
These materials are all environmentally friendly and do not emit harmful chemicals. If you are looking for a safe and healthy yoga mat, choose one made from natural materials.
Sustainable yoga mats
Sustainable yoga mats are made from materials that can be recycled or reused. This makes them a more environmentally friendly choice than conventional yoga mats, which are often made from PVC and other non-biodegradable materials.
There are a variety of sustainable yoga mats on the market made from different materials. Hemp and bamboo are two popular options. Hemp mats are durable and grippy, making them ideal for a dynamic yoga practice. Bamboo mats are also durable and have a natural slip resistance. Another sustainable option is a yoga mat made from cork.
Cork is a renewable resource and is naturally antimicrobial, which means it doesn't harbour bacteria, such as. It is also biodegradable, making it a more environmentally friendly choice. No matter which type of sustainable yoga mat you choose, you can feel good about making a positive impact on the environment.
Yoga accessories
There are a few other accessories you should consider when starting your yoga practice. A yoga belt can be helpful when stretching, and a yoga block can help maintain proper alignment in the poses. You can also buy yoga pants and tops that are designed to move well with you.
There are also special blankets and towels designed for yoga. Whatever you need to feel comfortable and supported in your yoga practice, be sure to invest in quality yoga items that will last.
Yoga belts
Just like yoga mats, there are a variety of different yoga straps on the market, made from a wide range of materials. Most are made of cotton, but some are made of hemp, bamboo or synthetic materials. The main advantage of yoga straps is that they can help you achieve deeper stretches and better alignment of your post.
Yoga straps come in different lengths, widths and thicknesses. So it is important to choose a strap that is comfortable for you and suits your needs. Thinner straps are usually better for securing the feet or ankles, while thicker straps are better for the hips or shoulders. When choosing a yoga strap, make sure it is made of a durable material that can withstand regular use. Also look to see if the strap has loops or D-rings for versatility.
Yoga blocks
Another important yoga accessory that is very helpful for beginners are yoga blocks. These are made of wood, cork or foam and help beginners in their daily yoga practice. They can be used in many different ways, but are mainly used as a support to achieve proper alignment in the poses, to give them extra support and to deepen their stretches. Yoga blocks come in different sizes and densities, so it is important that you choose the one that suits you.
Yoga towels
Just like yoga mats and belts, there are a variety of yoga towels on the market made of different materials. Most are made of cotton or microfibre, but some are also made of bamboo or hemp. The main advantages of a yoga towel are that it keeps you dry and prevents slipping. It can also be used to absorb sweat and protect your yoga mat from bacteria.
Yoga towels come in different sizes, so it is important to choose one that is the right size for you and your mat. They also come in different colours and patterns so you can choose one that suits your personal style. When choosing a yoga towel, make sure it is made of an absorbent material that wicks away sweat. Also look for a towel that is non-slip and offers good grip.
Conclusion on buying a yoga mat
No matter which yoga mat you choose, it is important that you feel comfortable with it. It should fit you, your values and your yoga style. There is no right or wrong here. However, before making any purchase, make sure that the products have been tested for harmful substances and are safe for your health.
The advantages of natural yoga mats and accessories far outweigh those of PVC products. Not only are they better for your health and the environment, they are also more durable and long lasting. So if you're looking for a quality yoga practice, you should definitely invest in high-quality, natural yoga mats and accessories. The prerequisite is that they fit into the budget of your wallet.
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