Best Gymnastics Mats

Consistent workout routines in a gym, including gymnastics, require a backup. It is common for individuals to suffer injuries on their knees, hands, or head while trying to perfect a move on a hard floor or surface. Falls are frequent, thus the need to reduce the impact and cushion the fall.

A proper gymnastic bat will do the trick for you. The mat has padding that cushions your body parts, preventing injuries. Their compact design helps you bring them to the gym or wherever the gymnastics are occurring without worry. Their affordability, ease of maintenance, and washing make them perfect for the activity.

10 Best Gymnastics Mats

Here are several brands of gymnastic mats that may draw your interests.

Tri-Fold Mat by ProsourceFit – (best recommended)

One of the best amongst gymnastic mats on the market. Not only is it useful inside a gym, but also out in the field. The design withstands abrasions of any kind, including water or sweat. The Vinyl cover keeps it clean and reduces the chances of staining as you only need to wipe it clean.

Perform several routines on the mat without a hassle. Feel free to pose and stretch, jump and intensify the moves—no injuries with the thickness of foam padding. The trifold feature makes it easier to carry and store than all others.

4 by 8 by 2 inches Mat by Giantex – (reputable brand)

First, the brand is one of the popular in developing and designing gymnastic mats. It prides itself on ensuring comfort, stability, and lightweight as significant features in their final products.

These mats retain their shape even if inconsistent use due to the supportive design of the foam in use. You can apply any form of gymnastics, including yoga or tussles, and not worry about degradation.

Finally, fold it to a smaller size and bring it to the gym or hope after use. It only weighs 16lbs and has Velcro straps for you to hold. They are also stable while on the floor, offering the chance to connect two or more when working out.

4 by 8 by 2 inches Mat by Polar Aurora – (compact and versatile)

The design is not only compact when folded, but also when spreading out and in use. It is for use by individuals with minimal workout space but still desire to engage in gymnastics. You can fold it into a compact size, making storage more accessible.

When spread out, it is only 4 by 8 inches and a thickness of 2 inches. It employs an EPE foam known for its shock absorbency levels. Use different angles when skipping or jumping on the mat. Use it for any other routine you might want as it works efficiently.

Junior Practice Mat by Tumbl Trak – (best recommended for juniors)

There is nothing more discouraging than a fall and an injury during a gymnastic event. A child becomes demoralized and often swear not to return to the class. However, with the right junior mat, you prevent such a scenario from occurring again. The rug creates a fun environment for your child to learn.

The foam is coarse to the touch and in appearance. However, it relieves any pressure that may result in an injury. It is resistant to sweat and water and has a longer lifespan.

It comes with a two-year assurance and has a certificate by the CPSIA.

Kids Mat by Zeyu Sports – (perfect for kids)

You may think that the design is only for kids, but you can also use it, although once in a while. The only difference is in the size as it is smaller compared to other brands.

The foam design is EPE, which is firm but soft to the touch and prevents foot and knee injuries. Even though it does occupy a fair amount of space, it folds to a compact size for more accessible storage. Besides, you can spread it anywhere in the home compound or gym and perform several exercises. They include yoga, martial arts, and other gym-related routines.

It comes with a colored leather coat that is sleek in appearance and quality. Cleaning it requires a simple wipe.

Tumbling Mat by Airacker – (multipurpose)

Many brands use foam to pad their mats. However, this brand employs air to pad the mat-forming a formidable but soft cloth for gymnastics. A power source is an essential item of this brand.

Once you air it, the mat is mostly accommodating a lot of gymnastics. Individuals can train or conduct a performance without fearing for their safety. It is a perfect buffer for jumps as falls have no strains upon impact. Also, it is longer-lasting compared to other brands.

Folding Mat by Matladin – (versatile)

This mat accepts any pressure exerted while going through your gymnastics, but it is also large and occupies enough space to accomplish any complicated move. You can perform any number of routines, including aerobics, yoga or rolls, and springs.

The design employs an EPE foam that is highly pressuring absorbent resulting in a smooth and light fall. The open cell model adds to the comfort of the mat. A cover coat made of leather serves to protect the foam.

Exercise Mat by Z-Athletic – (reputable brand)

One of the longer-lasting and renowned brands in the gymnastics industry. Famous for individuals aiming to practice while at home, in the office, or the school gym. The main reason behind this is the comfortable landing you receive after a jump.

The mat has a thickness of 4 inches, which improves your fall. If looking for a martial art or cheerleading training mat, pick the Z-Athletic. If bar training and you tussle around with a possibility of falling, this is the safest option. The foam is light but effective and also eco-friendly.

The material base covering the mat is vinyl. Easy to clean and resistant to mildew, abrasion, and punctures.

Cheese Mat by Franklin Sports – (heavy-duty for floor-based moves)

Taking a tumble or a walkover requires a slightly tighter gymnastic mat. If you will partake in gym rolls, a regular cloth is too thin and too small to accommodate the frequent tussles. Since there is a need to grasp any move with speed and defend yourself against injuries, get Franklin Sports.

It is the right size, has adequate padding, small and compact once you fold it, and has a handle. You can bring it to the gym at work, in school, or the neighborhood. Use the cheese mat for perfecting your handspring routine.

4 by 10 by 2 inches Mat Expert – (affordable and eco-friendly)

The gym without a proper mat can be a dangerous place. Carpets have a role in lowering the amount of energy the body expresses, limiting the resulting force. Whether you land on your knees or feet, there is no possibility of an injury.

The mat folds to a small compact design that is easy to carry around with you. Foam lining provides padding cushioning your fall. The overall coat is environmental-friendly, lasts longer and soft to the touch, thus comfortable.

Whether your passion is skipping from one end to another, lifting gym weights, or doing yoga, you have adequate protection when using the mat. An additional advantage is an available zip that allows you to remove the cloth, clean it, and re-use once dry. It keeps the mat hygienic.

What to Consider When Buying Gymnastic Mats

The only considerations one has when purchasing a gymnastic mat are its thickness and dimensions.

Thickness

A thin mat will not provide adequate protection as they lack sufficient padding. On the other hand, a thick mat prevents performance as gymnasts end up sinking into the mattress when practicing. You need a cloth with a medium thickness approximately 2 inches or more depending on the stunt.

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Dimension

Space is a huge issue when it comes to purchasing a mat. Evaluate the original area in place of use before proceeding to get one. Also, the purpose determines the size. Some stunts require larger mat dimensions in comparison to others. Otherwise, get one that fits both functionalities.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Is there a specific thickness one should get?

A: Mat thickness depends on the purpose or use. For massive stunts, you may require thicker mats than when performing simple maneuvers. Generally, thickness ranges from 1.5 inches to 2.5 inches. Many advice using a 2-inch diameter as it works both for heavy and light aerobics.

Q: Is there a difference between yoga and a gymnastic mat?

A: Yes! Yoga mats have a smaller thickness in comparison to the gymnastics mats. Since yoga mats models are for comfort while performing different stretches, their width is often an inch or less. However, gymnastic mats have to absorb high impacts and thus thicker than an inch.

Q: Which gymnastic mat should I get?

A: The mat you decide to get should be based on potential use. If the impact is substantial and the purpose is consistent, consider getting a thick carpet, with adequate padding that retains shape and a durable cover that protects from damage, including abrasions and water damage.

Conclusion

The available mat designs and models available in the market can be challenging to choose from when needed. However, with a proper guide and detailed information on what to look out for, it is easier to select. Read through the features of each and the advantages it offers and picks a suitable mat for your children.