Yoga is a type of exercise that allows the body to breathe and open up while stretching the muscles in ways that traditional exercise doesn’t. You’re going to need a mat of some style for yoga, and there are several styles to choose from online and in stores. Fortunately, there are a few tips that you can use to find the best one depending on where you’re going to perform yoga and how much time you want to put into caring for the mat.

The first thing that you want to think about is your body type. If you have a slimmer body, then a mat that is thicker might be a better option so that there is some padding between you and the floor since there isn’t as much muscle to protect the bones. Thicker mats are also good to use if you have issues with your joints. Thinner mats can be used for people who have more of a robust figure.

Think about what kind of yoga you want to perform, as this can also affect the kind of mat that you get. If you’re just starting out, then get a mat that is basic and inexpensive until you decide whether you’re going to continue with the exercises or not. If you plan to do yoga on a regular basis, then you might want to invest in a better mat that is hypoallergenic or that has a rubber surface so that it stays in place on the floor. Most yoga exercises require changing positions, so you’re going to want a mat that won’t move around. However, there are some yoga exercises where you sit on the floor for the entire session, so you might not need a mat that is as firm to the ground as others. If you take hot yoga classes, taking place in a hot room, you want to get a mat that is designed for this kind of exercise. These mats will expel sweat, making them easy to keep clean and keep maintained.

The location where you’re going to do yoga can affect the kind of yoga mat that you get. If you’re going to do exercises at home, then you might want to invest in a mat that is thicker and a little nicer. If you’re going to go back and forth to a gym or a yoga studio, then you want to get a mat that is lightweight so that it’s easy to carry with you. A hypoallergenic mat is also a good idea if you plan to go to a gym or studio since there will be more people in a small area, which means more bacteria and germs.

Next, look at the material of the mat. Most are made from PVC material, which is lightweight but deteriorates faster than one that is made of rubber. A rubber mat is a good option if you’re just starting yoga. It’s easy to keep clean, and it holds firm to the floor so it won’t move around while you’re moving. Make sure the mat that you get has padding of some kind. There is usually an inner pad and an outer covering that you’ll remove to wash. Mats with padding are ideal if you plan on being close to the ground or sitting for long periods of time. A sticky mat has a rough texture, and it can be uncomfortable to sit or stand on while exercising. If you’re looking for a mat with a smooth surface, then consider one that is made of PVC.

Lastly, think about storage when you’re looking at yoga mats. If you’re going to go to a gym or studio all the time, then you want to get a mat that can be left in your car so that you don’t have to get it in and out all the time. Lighter materials are easier to roll up, which can make the mat easier to store in a closet or under the bed. You can usually find a bag with a handle or shoulder strap to store your mat in if you don’t want to carry the mat.

While there are more specifics you can get into, as you progress in your yoga practice, these features should get you started in finding the right mat for you. Good luck!

Guest blog post by Lauren Riebs.