Gymnastic mat - an elastic fabric made from natural, synthetic or combined materials, designed for fitness, yoga, and other sports.
The presence of the mat contributes to the organization of the most comfortable workouts. The device provides protection to individual parts of the body from injuries in contact with hard surfaces. The gymnastic mat protects from the cold and eliminates slipping during active movements.
Types
There are several varieties of gymnastic mats. Such devices are classified mainly by the material of manufacture and parameters:
- Synthetic mats - made from polyvinyl chloride. Differ in special durability and resistance to wear. On average they serve for several years. They are the ideal solution for homework.
- Products from elastomer - have increased elasticity compared to the rugs of the previous category. They absorb moisture very well and therefore practically do not slip during movements.
- Rubber mats with the addition of jute or rubber - have a fairly impressive weight. However, they do not slip on both sides and do not create static electricity when in contact with surfaces. Convenient for training both at home and in the gym.
- Karematy - in fact, are more tourist products than sports equipment. Made from synthetics. May contain a protective coating in the form of a plastic film or aluminum shell. Such a gymnastic mat only slightly protects against injuries. Its main task is effective thermal insulation.
The size
To choose the right gym
mat for children or an adult user, you need to focus on its parameters. Of great importance when choosing is the physique and growth of the athlete.
There are a number of standardized parameters according to which fitness mats are made:
- Length - from 175 to 220 cm.
- Width - 60-80 cm.
- Thickness - from 3 mm to 1.5 cm.
The thicker the gymnastic mat is, the more comfortable its operation will be, since contact with surfaces will be almost imperceptible to the user.
The main differences between expensive rugs and budget items
What is the difference between a cheap and expensive gymnastics mat? Price is the primary difference here. Currently, the cost of gymnastic rugs is from 300 to 3000 rubles. The existence of such a wide price range is explained by the use of numerous manufacturing materials.
Quality products are not attached to cheap products, which confirm their reliability and safety for both the user and others. Gymnastic mat, the price of which is frankly underestimated, during operation can turn into a source of unpleasant odors and even poison the air in the room.
Caring for the gymnastics mat
The simplest PVC products, strong enough for regular practice, suggest the possibility of manual cleaning and machine wash. At the same time, it is better to wipe the folding gymnastic mat from natural or combined materials with a damp sponge or a piece of cloth moistened with alcohol.
When caring for the rug, it is not recommended to use soap or chemicals. Any household cleaner is absorbed into the thickness of the mat and adversely affects the skin with active perspiration. In addition, the soap mat becomes slippery.
To dry a wet product, it is enough to actively crush it with your hands or trample it underfoot, and then hang it in fresh air.
Selection tips
Gymnastic mats that are non-slip, easy to clean, and thick enough to provide complete comfort during exercise with and without dumbbells will become effective for doing fitness at home or training in the gym. For yoga, it is recommended to dwell on sufficiently dense, thick, and most importantly - non-slip products.
Separately, when buying, you should pay attention to how much the product is prone to the formation of a charge of static electricity. A similar property will help in attracting dust and collecting harmful microorganisms.
Eventually
As you can see, the choice of mats for fitness is quite wide. When choosing a suitable option, you should focus mainly on conditions, intensity and frequency of classes, as well as affordable prices.
If you plan to use a rug for occasional homework, in this case there is absolutely no point in wasting money on expensive products. Some models made of elastomers or PVC are not too inferior to natural ones in quality. However, they are much cheaper. Ultimately, the main thing is not to save on your own health.