How do you choose a suitable Pilates mat?

A pilates mat You need a Pilates mat for groundwork. Because Pilates focuses specifically on strengthening and stretching the core muscles, you'll perform many exercises from a lying or sitting position. Don't do these on a dirty, cold, or hard floor. Your body needs the support of a good Pilates mat. You can also use this mat for yoga and fitness, but the reverse is usually not the case. Read here what to look for when purchasing one pilates mat.

What is a Pilates mat?

A pilates mat is an oblong mat at least 10 millimeters thick, tailored to your body height and width. The mat is made of a slightly springy material that absorbs and supports your movements. Closed cell foam is therefore an excellent material for you pilates mat, but PVC, rubber and even jute are also widely used.

What is the difference between a yoga mat and a pilates mat?

Yoga mats and Pilates mats They're very similar. However, Pilates places higher demands on your mat. So, if you practice both yoga and Pilates, it's a good idea to buy a mat that's around 6 mm thick. You can then use this for both yoga and Pilates exercises. The reverse is often not the case, because:

• A yoga mat is usually too thin for Pilates. A Pilates mat should be at least 10 millimeters thick, but 15 millimeters is even more comfortable. Side-lying exercises, in particular, can be uncomfortable on a thin mat, for example, if your bones protrude too much.
• The most yoga mats have a standard size. Pilates mats Available in multiple sizes, for example, with a length of 1.95 m. So pay attention to the dimensions when ordering your Pilates mat.

Why do you need a Pilates mat?

A pilates mat Provides support for your body, allowing you to optimally relax and engage all your muscles without back pain and risk of injury. A good Pilates mat cushions your movement, so your back never hits the floor hard. A good pilates mat is therefore certainly not an unnecessary luxury.

A non-slip Pilates mat

The anti-slip surface on both sides prevents a pilates mat No. That makes a Pilates mat also very suitable for standing exercises.

Taking and storing Pilates mats

You naturally want to keep your studio tidy, but you might have thirty mats in it. You can stack them, but that doesn't always stay in place. Fortunately, there are better solutions for storing your Pilates mats and keeping your studio neat and organized.

Storing Pilates mats in the studio

• Mats with rings. This pilates mat with rings hang it on a hanging system in your studio. Install this hanging rack for organized and space-saving storage of pilates mats.
• Mats with velcro. For a smaller studio, mats with Velcro Also suitable. Just make sure to put them together in a container, otherwise they'll roll around your studio.

Taking your Pilates mat to the Pilates studio

In the city you will of course cycle to the studio. If you have large panniers, a Pilates mat with Velcro in it, but even easier and more elegant is a practical carrying strap for your mat or a super hip pilates bag. The advantage of such a Pilates bag or another wide sports bag is that you can also store other pilates props in it. Would you rather leave your own mat at home and use a Pilates mat from the studio? Then take a non-slip towel to put on your mat. Very hygienic!

Choosing the right Pilates mat

Where do you have a pilates mat Is it necessary? That's the most important question you should ask yourself when buying a mat. Are you in Pilates training or are you already a pro and do you have a sufficient budget for professional Pilates equipment? Then take a look at these professional pilates matThis is, of course, also one of the best Pilates mats for the well-equipped Pilates studio. Fortunately, there are plenty of good Pilates mats available for a more modest budget. To know which mat to choose, consider the following features:

• The substrate. On a tiled floor, you need a thicker mat than with a solid carpet. For a stone floor, it's best to choose a thick Pilates mat 15 millimeterWith fixed floor coverings, 10 millimeter thickness sufficient.
• Your body shape. Are you very tall or broad? Then choose a mat that is long and wide enough. Feel free to add 10 centimeters to your height and buy a long pilates mat of 198 centimeters.
• The material. The material should have plenty of cushioning, such as Merrithew's eco- or closed-cell foam. Also consider the mat's weight if you often need to take it to class.

Cleaning and maintaining your Pilates mat

Clean your mats regularly to ensure they last as long as possible. A vigorous Pilates workout involves a lot of sweat, which will damage your mats over time. Wipe them down with a damp cloth and water. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing, as this will damage the material. Also, don't use harsh all-purpose cleaners on your mats pilates matFor a thorough cleaning, use a special mat cleaner With a delightful scent that makes your workout even more enjoyable. This mat cleaner also kills viruses and bacteria.

Which brand of Pilates mat should you buy?

At Yoga-Pilatesshop you will only find the best Pilates matsThat's why we sell mats from the best known to notice:

• STOTT. Choose a lightweight Pilates mat of only 810 grams.
• Merrithew. Besides barrels and reformers, Merrithew also makes mats for pilates, such as this one luxury pilates mat with hanging loops.
• Align-Pilates. The mats from this brand are made of TPE foam, which provides excellent cushioning. For example, choose this 10 millimeter Pilates matThis one is also available with hanging eyes (rings).
• Pilates-Mad. This trendy brand also sells pilates mats, for example 15 millimeter thick mat for pilates.
• Fitness-Mad. This brand is a sibling of Pilates-Mad and Yoga-Mad. You'll also find a suitable Pilates mat here. Take a look at this one pilates set including mat.
• Peak Pilates. Here you will find a extra thick Pilates mat of 15 millimetersPeak Pilates also offers a professional Pilates mat: the raised platform matThis Pilates mat is ideal for a personal trainer, as it's height-adjustable, making it suitable for any body type.

View all Pilates mats here

Exchanges and returns at the Yoga Pilates Shop

At Yoga-Pilatesshop you can buy a pilates mat Risk-free. Do you regret your purchase because you wish you had bought a thicker mat? You don't have to give us a reason if you return your order within 30 days. You'll simply get your money back. And you know what's smart? Call 06 3044 3485 or 06 2196 1417 for free, no-obligation advice about your new Pilates mat. Email us at [email protected] or the contact form Of course you can also send it in.