Are you an avid gym goer? Then you are certainly familiar with the feeling of exercising on a cold, hardwood gym floor. It's not very comfortable, isn't it? But things could be worse. Without an exercise mat, you might even slip on someone's else sweat (yikes!). To avoid this painful and humiliating experience, get yourself an exercise mat.

A good gym mat is a flat sheet of rubber or fabric used during exercise to provide a barrier between you and the floor. This is to maintain the cleanliness of the space where you are working out and also to provide you comfort while you make your ‘moves.’ More importantly, a mat can improve your traction and balance especially when you are doing pilates or yoga exercises. They are portable and can easily be folded or rolled up.

Which exercise mat is best?

Different types of exercises require different kinds of mats. Here are some of them:

Travel mats are made from lightweight material for portability. They are perfect to bring in a fitness center.

Yoga mats are made for low-impact floor exercises. They are slightly longer and thicker than the regular travel mats. They are also sticky to prevent the user from slipping while doing the poses.

Pilates mats are similar to yoga mats, however this type is much thicker and has more padding.

Deluxe-type mats are made of higher quality materials than the others. They are also more durable, larger and thinner.

How to buy

Choose an exercise mat that provides adequate cushioning and support against the floor. Look for mats that are well-padded, light, and breathable. To prevent sweat buildup and skin irritation, look for mats made out of highly absorbent but quick-drying materials. Yous should also take time to visit exercise equipment websites or sports equipment shows to compare brands and prices.