Which mat to choose for Pilates?

Welcome to another #Beshaped post! On our blog, you will find tips on nutrition, exercises, suggestions for choosing the right clothing, and a bunch of advice on typically female issues. In this post, you will learn what kind of mat to choose for Pilates?

What is Pilates?

Pilates is a training method developed by German physiotherapist Joseph Pilates in the first half of the 20th century. The main goal of Pilates is to strengthen the deep muscles responsible for stabilizing the spine and preventing injuries. Pilates exercises focus on improving body control, muscle strength, balance, and coordination. Pilates is based on the principles of control, precision, fluidity of movements, and concentration. The exercises are performed slowly, focusing on the precise execution of movements, which allows for better awareness of one’s body and control during training. Through concentration and focus on the exercises performed, we learn to control our body and mind, which allows us to achieve full harmony and balance.

Pilates can be used as a form of rehabilitation for people with various types of ailments and disorders, such as back pain or respiratory issues. At the same time, it is a training method that can be used by individuals of all ages and fitness levels.

In Pilates, various accessories are used, such as balls, bands, or specifically mats for exercises, which allow for even greater variety in training.

To perform Pilates exercises, a Pilates mat is useful. What should a Pilates mat be like? It should definitely be comfortable, durable, and non-slip. What else? Read on in our post!

Pilates mat - what thickness and dimensions?

Choosing the right Pilates mat is very important because it affects comfort and safety during training. The mat should have an appropriate thickness that provides softness and cushioning, but it should not be too thick to hinder body stabilization during exercises.

The best Pilates mat should be between 6 to 10 mm thick, which ensures adequate comfort during exercises. At the same time, the Pilates mat should be sufficiently firm to allow stability during movements.

The dimensions of the Pilates mat depend on the individual preferences of the user. Depending on height and body size, one can choose a mat with a length of 180 to 200 cm and a width of 60 to 80 cm.

A pilates mat should be made of high-quality materials that ensure durability and resistance to damage. It is also important for the pilates mat to be non-slip, which will provide stability and safety during training.

In summary, the best pilates mat should have the appropriate thickness, be made of durable and quality materials, and also be non-slip to ensure safety and stability while performing exercises.

How to choose a pilates mat?

What kind of pilates mat? When choosing a pilates mat, it is worth paying attention to a few important issues:

1. What thickness should a pilates mat have?
   A pilates mat should have the appropriate thickness that ensures comfort during exercises, but at the same time should not be too thick to avoid hindering body stabilization. The best pilates mat should have a thickness of 6 to 10 mm.
2. Is the pilates mat non-slip?
   A pilates mat should be non-slip to ensure safety and stability during training. This way, we can avoid slipping and injuries while performing exercises.
3. Material: It is important for the pilates mat to be made of high-quality materials that ensure durability and resistance to damage. It is good to choose mats made from natural materials such as latex, cotton, or rubber.
4. Size: The dimensions of the pilates mat should be appropriate for the user to ensure comfort and freedom while performing exercises. Depending on height and body size, it is worth choosing a mat with a length of 180 to 200 cm and a width of 60 to 80 cm.
5. Price: The price of a pilates mat can vary depending on the quality of materials and finishing. It is worth choosing a pilates mat that meets our expectations but is also available at an affordable price.

In summary, what is the best pilates mat? When choosing a pilates mat, it is worth paying attention to its thickness, non-slip properties, material, size, and price. Well-chosen parameters of the pilates mat will allow for a comfortable and safe workout.

The most important! A thick pilates mat - not a thin one, that is the most important criterion! And by thick, we mean at least 6 mm.

Do you need to have your own mat for pilates classes?

Many pilates studios and fitness clubs provide their participants with pilates mats, but it's worth checking beforehand if the facility has this option.

If the pilates studio does not provide mats, it is advisable to bring your own pilates mat. This way, we can be sure that we are using a mat with the appropriate thickness and quality, which will ensure us the right comfort and safety during the workout.

Bringing your own pilates mat also has other benefits, such as greater hygiene and saving time, as you won’t have to wait for the previous participant to finish their exercises and leave the mat.

Therefore, if you often attend pilates classes, it is worth considering purchasing your own pilates mat that will be tailored to your needs and expectations.