Thursday 5 February 2009

How To Buy a Yoga Mat

So you have joined the yoga craze. Congratulations, you have joined many with the main goal of increasing their strength and flexibility. Once you start in this venture of health and physical fitness, you will need some supplies.

When you are starting out , you want to make sure you do not spend too much money. This is because while you are interested in it now, you cannot be sure that you will stay interested in it until you get into it and start on a program. So, to avoid breaking the bank before you even try this activity you want to just get the basics. Try the lower end and upgrade if necessary.

First, you will need a yoga mat. The first thing you want to think about when you are choosing a yoga mat is to first and foremost know that it is in fact a yoga mat that you are looking at. Many people confuse Pilates mats with yoga mats, however the Pilates variety is much thicker and is made for primarily floor poses. Yoga mats are thinner and are made for standing poses. When you choose one, remember that you are just starting out. Whatever you do, do not spend too much money right away. A $15-20 mat is sufficient.

Mats in this price range tend to be made from synthetic materials, but are ideal for a beginner and it is not necessary to upgrade until you decide if you like it. If you start doing yoga and find it to be everything you want it to be, then you may be ready for the next step.

The next thing to consider when buying a mat is what kind of natural materials you can choose from. These mats are of better quality and cost a bit more (around $40 or more). The ideal natural material for most people is rubber, but you can also get one made from cork. This material is significantly more because of the short supply of cork in the world.

Whatever yoga mat you choose, make sure you choose one that suits your needs and that you actually use. Even if the mat you are looking for is used by all the big celebrities, if it is not comfortable then it will probably just collect dust. Good luck on your yoga mat search!

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