I was recently convinced to try a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) class by a friend. While I enjoy working out, I usually stick to lower-impact activities like yoga, Pilates, and bodyweight training. However, since trying new fitness routines was part of my New Year’s resolutions, I decided to step out of my comfort zone. Exercise Mats
As the class began, we started jumping, lunging, and burpeeing on the hardwood floor. Within minutes my knees were aching and I felt jarring sensations go through my body every time I hit the ground doing mountain climbing. I started dreading the next high-energy round kicking off. About halfway through, I grabbed a spare padded mat in the corner, which provided basic cushioning but made a world of difference for my joints and back. I was able to get through the rest of the class without pain, though I was sore for several days after.
This experience showed me that using an exercise mat has numerous benefits beyond just comfort. Quality exercise mats can enhance your workouts and indoor activities through improved safety, cushioning, traction, convenience, and more. Upgrading my home gym with durable workout mats is now a top priority for me this year.
Now that you know the common exercise mat types available, let’s dive into the multitude of benefits proper matting can provide:
Comfort & Cushioning:
Protects joints from the hard floor during floor exercises
Reduces strain on the back, knees, elbows and sensitive areas
Allows you to work longer without discomfort
Alleviate tailbone and hip soreness during core routines
Save elbow tendons and wrists from repeat impact stress
Mitigate injury risk – less joint wear and pain
Cushioning abilities vary based on the material:
Rubber – firm but still some give to absorb shock
EVA foam – soft and responsive feel conforms to shape
Polyurethane – most padding and bounce
The key is finding balance – don’t want so much cushion it destabilizes movements requiring balance and control. But also don’t want a rock-solid surface with zero relief.
Traction & Stability
Ensure secure footing for exercise equipment
Proper grip prevents slips and falls on smooth floors
Allows executing complex multi-plane movements safely and with confidence
A stable base improves lifting form – no rocking, wobbling, or shifting
Durable enough for very heavy stationary equipment like power racks
Certain materials naturally grip the floor effectively:
Rubber – stays put, little sliding even when damp with sweat
EVA Foam – textured bottom and beveled edges fight slippage
Some also include non-slip bottom layers or traction-inducing additives that grab the floor.
Safer Landings
Critical for reducing impact on joints from high-intensity plyometrics
Helps safely master advanced calisthenics skills
Tested impact absorption levels at 10 ft drop with 140 lb load:
Hardwood Floor – 100 G Force
Rubber Roll – 27 G Force
Interlocking Foam Tiles – 15 G Force
Professional Landing Mat – 7 G Force
Pro-tip – for two layers of cushioning protection, put foam exercise tiles on top of rolled rubber sheeting.
Hygiene & Cleanliness:
Creates a barrier between the body and the dirty floor
Easy to quickly sanitize mats between use
Certain materials naturally inhibit microbes
Can steam clean or pressure wash rubber flooring
No place for sweat to soak in and lead to odors
Some foam and yoga mats tout “antimicrobial” properties
