How to Choose a Yoga Mat

Steps

1. Figure out your budget, most yoga mats are between $10-$20 but you could spend an upwards of $40-$100 for a yoga mat.
2. Find out if you want a plain solid colored yoga mat or a more detailed one with designs. If you want more cushion go with a thicker mat. There are all types of yoga mats and you can find them anywhere. I think you might even be able to get bamboo mats.
3. Look around at local stores (Wal-Mart, Target, Sports Authority, etc) You can even find yoga mats at places you wouldn't expect like ULTA or TJ Maxx.
4. If none of the stores have what you are looking for go online and search for it.

Tips

• If you plan on doing yoga for a long time pick a mat you are going to like. The $20 mat will probably last a long time. You want to make sure you are happy with it so you don't end up wasting money.
• If you have never taken a yoga class before find out if the studio has mats (most do). That way if you don't like yoga you didn't waste your money.
• Some mats come with cases, DVDs, yoga straps, or yoga blocks.
• If you find yourself slipping on your mat from sweaty palms or feet bring a towel. You can put between the mat and your hands in down-dog. Or you can buy a product like yogi-toes that prevents you from sticking.
• If you are older or you have joint issues you might want a thicker mat. It will provide more cushion that you will need. Even though yoga is low-impact you want to be cushioned when you are laying down.
• You don't need a fancy detailed mat to be good at yoga.

Warnings

• The cheap mats that are $10 don't last very long and start to peel apart. You get what you pay for, and a $20 mat is usually better quality.

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