Are you making time for your workouts each week? Maybe you are confused which exercises are best and what type of exercise you should do each day?
My goal is to get my clients moving 10,000 steps per day and doing strength training with cardio blasts two to three days a week for 30 minutes as well as additional exercise to balance the nervous system as yoga.
I love yoga but I find it challenging to get myself on my yoga mat at home or get to the yoga studio. If we realize a little bit of yoga practice for 10-15 minutes in the morning or the evening is beneficial …as well as the perfect way to start and/or end your day.
Get started by buying a mat that is your mat…your personal space. I teach yoga in my fitness studio mostly after 30 minutes strength intervals to wind down but I wish my clients would bring their own mat as I think sharing yoga mats (even when cleaned) feels like you are sharing your bath towel or bathrobe!
Here is some helpful information to help you find your sacred yoga mat… and don’t forget to write your name on it then bring it with you when you come to Fitness Forward Studio for our 30/20 workouts!
Tips to Help You Choose the Best Yoga Mat
Choosing the right yoga mat will ultimately come down to your preferences. Since each mat is made with different variables, there will be many styles, brands, and types of yoga mats to choose from. Luckily, Reviews.com dedicated six weeks to finding what makes a good yoga mat and how to find the best one for your yoga needs.
Is a Yoga Mat for Me?
You can rent yoga mats at various studios, which makes many people question whether they should purchase the mat for themselves, or rent it on a need-basis. Another fact is that yoga mats are not mandatory when it pertains to practicing yoga. In fact, this trend was not as popular years ago, as it is now. However, many professionals suggest that you practice yoga on an actual mat to help prevent slips, strains, and being uncomfortable. It is also beneficial for you to practice with your own yoga mat, for health reasons, as other mats that you rent could have bacteria on them.
What Materials Should you Consider?
The type of material a mat is made with will play a significant role in your choice. The material dictates various factors, such as: comfort, stickiness, eco-friendliness, durability, texture
Yoga mats made with PVC (polyvinyl chloride) are popular because they keep slippage to a minimum. PVC mats are more durable. However, there are some issues with PVC mats, including its negative impact on the environment. If you want to choose a yoga mat that is eco-friendly, the mat should be made with the following materials: Jute, cotton, recycled, natural rubber, bamboo, hemp, and cork.
Other Factors to Consider
The cell structure of a yoga mat is important. You can choose between an open-cell and a closed-cell structure. The latter does not absorb moisture, which could cause you to slip more, even though it is easier to clean. Open-cell structure yoga mats absorb sweat and oils; this allows you to have a better grip when using the mat, even if you use it during wet conditions. However, open-cell structure yoga mats are difficult to clean.
You should always consider the density of a yoga mat before making your final decision. Density helps determine how comfortable the mat will be. The thicker the mat, the better; thin mats are not as comfortable, especially during kneeling poses.
The more durable a yoga mat is, the longer it could last. Yoga mats made with eco-friendly materials, or natural rubber, typically hold up well. Keep in mind that with proper care, your yoga mat could remain in good shape. Failing to clean the mat will cause damage. If you leave your mat in a hot car or use it outdoors, the heated environments could cause the mat to break down quickly.
The length of the yoga mat should cover your entire body while you are lying down. Regardless of where you purchase your yoga mat – online or via a retail store – you will need to make sure the measurements are accurate. When buying the yoga mat in-store, you have the ability to lie down on the mat and test it out in-person.
Choosing a Good Yoga Mat
When you choose your mat, you will need to decide what makes it good, and what makes it bad. The weight of the yoga mat is important; you will have the task of carrying the mat back and forth to class, your car, and home. Be sure to choose the yoga mat that provides you with plenty of cushion. A good yoga mat is: durable, eco-friendly, comfortable, the right size, stable, supportive, and has a great smell.
Your yoga mat is an important investment. This is the mat that will support you during every inhale and exhale. You should test out as many yoga mats as you can before making a final decision. Remember that the better the yoga mat feels to you, the better it will be as you practice yoga! To see the full guide on choosing the best yoga mat, check out Reviews.com’s full research article: http://www.reviews.com/best-yoga-mat/
Make sure you make time each week for a little yin and yang workouts! We don’t need to be in the “red zone” every day… you actually will get more results if you alternate hard days with two easier days to allow recovery and reset time.
Coach Debbie
