Choosing the right exercise mat is essential for maximizing comfort, support, and safety during your workout. A 36 inch wide exercise mat offers several advantages, particularly for individuals who require more space or prefer a larger surface for their exercises. Whether you’re practicing yoga, Pilates, or doing floor stretches, the extra width of a 36-inch mat ensures that you have ample room for movement, making it ideal for those with broader body frames or for partners working out together. In this post, we’ll explore the key features of a 36-inch wide exercise mat, from material and thickness to texture and portability, to help you find the best mat suited to your needs.
Why Choose a36 Inch Wide Exercise Mat?
When selecting the right exercise mat, the width of the mat plays a significant role in enhancing comfort and improving performance. A 36 inch wide exercise mat offers several benefits over standard-sized mats, making it a popular choice for individuals looking for extra space, stability, and joint support during their workouts. Here’s a deeper look at why choosing a 36-inch wide exercise mat can make a difference:
Extra Space for Comfort
One of the primary advantages of a 36 inch wide exercise mat is the additional surface area it provides. This extra width ensures that you have more room to move comfortably during various exercises such as yoga, Pilates, or stretching. Individuals with larger body frames, or those who simply prefer more space, will appreciate the freedom of movement a wider mat offers. Whether you’re doing a wide-legged stretch, a seated pose, or any floor exercise, the added space helps you avoid feeling cramped, making your practice more enjoyable and less restrictive.
Better Stability
For many exercises, especially those requiring balance and stability, the additional width of a 36 inch wide exercise mat can provide a more stable platform. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with broader body frames who may feel limited by a standard 24-inch mat. Having more surface area allows you to maintain better posture and alignment during challenging poses, such as standing balance poses in yoga or certain Pilates exercises. The larger mat gives you more space to distribute your weight evenly, preventing the feeling of tipping over and ensuring safer movements during your workout.
Ideal for Partners or Group Workouts
A 36 inch wide exercise mat is perfect for paired exercises or group workouts where more space is required. Whether you’re working out with a partner, participating in a group fitness class, or simply need more room to perform exercises side by side, a wider mat provides enough space to move freely without interference from others. This is especially useful for partner yoga, stretching routines, or activities that involve a lot of floor work where you might need to spread out and coordinate movements.
Comfort for Sensitive Joints
Another benefit of a 36 inch wide exercise mat is the additional cushioning it provides for individuals with sensitive joints. The extra width can enhance comfort during exercises that involve kneeling, sitting, or lying on the floor, as it offers more space to adjust your position. The added surface area can help distribute your body weight more evenly, reducing the strain on sensitive areas like knees, hips, and elbows. This makes the mat an excellent choice for restorative yoga, gentle stretching, or low-impact exercises where comfort is a top priority.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a 36 Inch Wide Exercise Mat
When selecting a 36 inch wide exercise mat, it’s important to consider several key features that can directly impact your comfort, safety, and performance. The right mat should not only provide enough space for your exercises but also cater to your personal preferences, activity type, and physical needs. Here are the main features to think about:
Thickness
The thickness of a 36 inch wide exercise mat plays a crucial role in determining the level of comfort and joint protection it provides. Thicker mats generally offer more cushioning, which is essential for protecting sensitive joints during floor-based exercises such as yoga, Pilates, or stretching. For example, mats with a thickness of 1/4 inch (6mm) are often suitable for users who need moderate cushioning, while those looking for extra support may opt for mats with a thickness of 1/2 inch (12mm) or more.
- Impact on Comfort and Joint Protection: A thicker mat can help absorb impact, making it easier on your knees, hips, and wrists, especially during exercises like kneeling lunges or floor stretches. If you have joint issues or plan to engage in low-impact activities like restorative yoga, a thicker mat is recommended.
- Common Thickness Ranges:
- 1/4 inch (6mm): Ideal for yoga, Pilates, and other exercises requiring a balance between cushioning and stability.
- 1/2 inch (12mm) or more: Provides superior comfort for individuals with joint pain or those practicing restorative poses.
The thickness you choose will depend on your personal needs, but remember that thicker mats can sometimes be bulkier, which may impact portability.
Material
The material of a 36 inch wide exercise mat affects not only its durability and performance but also its environmental impact. Different materials come with their own benefits, so it’s important to select one that aligns with your preferences.
- Common Materials:
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): PVC mats are durable, affordable, and provide good cushioning. However, they are not the most eco-friendly option.
- TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer): TPE mats are made from non-toxic materials and are considered more eco-friendly than PVC. They are lightweight and provide moderate support, making them a great option for those looking for sustainability.
- Rubber: Rubber mats are highly durable and provide excellent traction, but they can be heavier than other materials. They are a great choice for individuals who want a non-slip surface during intense workouts.
Each material comes with its own pros and cons, so consider factors such as durability, eco-friendliness, weight, and comfort when choosing the right material for your 36 inch wide exercise mat.
Surface Texture
The surface texture of a 36 inch wide exercise mat can have a significant impact on your workout experience, particularly when it comes to preventing slippage and ensuring stability during poses. A textured surface offers better traction, which can be crucial for yoga and Pilates practices where balance is essential.
- Role of Texture in Preventing Slippage: A smooth surface might feel soft but can lead to slipping, especially during sweaty workouts or high-intensity exercises. Textured mats provide additional grip, preventing your hands and feet from sliding during poses like downward dog or plank.
- Options for Textured and Smooth Mats:
- Textured Mats: These mats are often designed with patterns like ridges, circles, or waves to increase grip and provide a more stable foundation.
- Smooth Mats: Ideal for individuals who practice slower, gentler exercises or who prefer a more minimalist design. Smooth mats may require non-slip grips to avoid slipping, but they are easier to clean.
If you plan on using your 36 inch wide exercise mat for vigorous workouts or if you tend to sweat during sessions, a textured mat is a better choice for stability.
Portability
While a 36 inch wide exercise mat provides extra space for comfort, its larger size can make it slightly more challenging to transport compared to standard mats. Portability is an important consideration, especially if you plan to take your mat to the gym, studio, or outdoor locations.
- Weight Considerations: Wider mats typically weigh more than standard mats due to the added material, so it’s important to find a balance between size and weight. A heavier mat may offer better stability and durability, but it could be less convenient to carry around.
- Folding vs. Rolling Mats: Some 36 inch wide exercise mats are designed to be easily rolled up for storage, while others can be folded for more compact transport. Rolling mats are more common, but folding mats may be easier to carry if you need to save space.
- Carrying Straps or Bags: Many mats come with straps or bags to help you carry them more easily. This is particularly useful for individuals who transport their mats regularly and need a practical way to handle the larger size.
When choosing a 36 inch wide exercise mat, be sure to consider how portable it needs to be, especially if you plan to take it on the go.
Types of 36 Inch Wide Exercise Mat
When choosing the perfect 36 inch wide exercise mat, it’s important to consider the type of exercises you’ll be doing and how much space you need for your movements. The added width of a 36-inch mat provides ample room for various workout styles, whether you’re practicing yoga, Pilates, or doing other floor exercises. Below, we explore two common types of 36 inch wide exercise mats: extra wide yoga mats and square mats.
Extra Wide Yoga Mats (36″ x 72″)
Extra wide yoga mats measuring 36 inches x 72 inches are a popular choice for yoga practitioners who require additional space for their poses. These mats provide more room for your body to stretch out fully, especially for larger body types or those who need extra space during specific poses.
Yoga Practitioners
Extra wide yoga mats are particularly beneficial for yoga practitioners who frequently move into poses that require a lot of space, such as wide-legged standing poses or stretches that extend the body lengthwise. The extra width ensures that you can complete your practice without feeling restricted, offering more freedom to stretch and flow comfortably between poses.
Comparison to Standard-Sized Yoga Mats (24″ wide)
Standard yoga mats are typically 24 inches wide, which is fine for many people, but for those who have broader frames or simply prefer more space, a 36 inch wide exercise mat provides a noticeable improvement in comfort. The added width gives you more room to spread out, ensuring that your hands, feet, and body stay aligned properly throughout your practice without feeling cramped.
Ideal for Specific Yoga Practices
36 inch wide exercise mats are particularly suited for restorative yoga, yin yoga, and other slower, more deliberate practices where space and comfort are key. These types of yoga involve long-held poses and stretches that benefit from a wider mat to allow more room for movement. Restorative yoga, in particular, often involves using props, and having a wider mat can accommodate the additional space needed for blocks, bolsters, or blankets.
Extra wide yoga mats offer a more spacious environment, which can significantly enhance your comfort and performance during yoga practices.
Square 36″ Exercise Mats
Square 36″ exercise mats are another versatile option for individuals looking for a broader, symmetrical surface for their workouts. These mats offer a square shape that provides even more flexibility for various activities, making them a great choice for a variety of exercises beyond just yoga.
Versatility for Different Types of Workouts
Square mats are not limited to yoga alone. The equal dimensions allow them to be perfect for activities like Pilates, stretching, bodyweight exercises, or even as a general floor mat in your gym. The symmetry of the square shape makes it easier to perform movements that require equal spacing on all sides, such as lunges, squats, or balance exercises.
Suitable for Pilates, Stretching, and More
If you regularly practice Pilates or engage in stretching routines, a 36 inch wide exercise mat in a square shape offers ample space to move freely without worrying about running out of room. The square design allows for more balanced movements, especially when you need to move laterally or rotate your body in different directions.
Ideal for Users Who Prefer Symmetry
Some people prefer the symmetry and uniformity of a square mat as it allows them to center themselves in the middle of the mat during exercises. This design is particularly helpful for those who want to ensure they have an equal amount of space around them, creating a balanced environment for their workouts. Square mats are especially great for those who practice dynamic movements and need to adjust their body position quickly in all directions.
Square 36 inch wide exercise mats also make excellent flooring options for a gym or fitness space, as they can be arranged in a pattern to cover larger areas. They are also easier to coordinate with other gym equipment, providing a visually appealing and practical solution for workouts.
Where to Find 36 Inch Wide Exercise Mat
When it comes to purchasing a 36 inch wide exercise mat, you have several options for where to shop, both online and offline. Each method has its pros and cons, and understanding the best place to buy your mat depends on factors like convenience, price, and your preference for in-person shopping versus online browsing. Below, we explore where to find 36 inch wide exercise mats and key factors to keep in mind when choosing between local stores and online shopping.
Local Stores and Online Shopping
Where to Find 36-Inch Wide Exercise Mats Nearby for In-Person Shopping
If you prefer to see and feel a 36 inch wide exercise mat before making a purchase, local stores are a great option. Many large retailers, sporting goods stores, or fitness specialty shops carry a variety of exercise mats, including wider options for yoga and general workouts. Some places where you might find a 36 inch wide exercise mat include:
- Sports and Fitness Stores: Major retailers or local fitness equipment shops often carry a variety of mats for different activities. These stores usually allow you to compare different brands and materials in person and can give you a sense of the mat’s texture, thickness, and durability.
- Department Stores: Stores or other local department stores may carry 36 inch wide exercise mats, particularly those that cater to yoga, Pilates, or fitness. Although their selections might be more limited compared to specialized stores, these retail chains can still provide options at affordable prices.
- Yoga Studios and Health Shops: If you live in a large urban area, check with local yoga studios or wellness shops, as they often sell exercise mats directly to customers. These stores may offer a selection of mats specifically chosen for yoga practices, and they might even stock extra-wide options for those who need more space.
The benefit of shopping in person is that you can test the mats for comfort and quality before purchasing, ensuring the 36 inch wide exercise mat meets your expectations. However, your local stores might not always have the exact style or size you’re looking for, especially if you’re searching for more specific features like eco-friendly materials or a specific thickness.
Popular Online Platforms Offering Convenience, Delivery, and Customer Reviews
For a more convenient shopping experience, many consumers turn to online retailers to find 36 inch wide exercise mats. Shopping online gives you access to a much larger selection of mats, including brands, sizes, and materials that may not be available locally. Online shopping provides convenience, especially with delivery and the ability to compare prices and products from multiple retailers. The downside is that you can’t physically inspect the mat before purchasing, though customer reviews can offer helpful insights into the mat’s quality and performance.
Factors to Keep in Mind
When deciding where to buy your 36 inch wide exercise mat, there are a few key factors to keep in mind to ensure you’re making the best choice:
Availability
Some local stores may not carry 36 inch wide exercise mats in stock, or their selection may be limited to specific brands or types. Shopping online often provides access to a wider range of mats, but you’ll need to consider whether the mat is available for immediate delivery or if it will require a longer wait time.
Delivery Time
If you choose to buy a 36 inch wide exercise mat online, be sure to check the delivery times, especially if you need the mat urgently. Some online retailers offer expedited shipping options, while others may have standard delivery times of several days to weeks. If you’re shopping locally, the benefit is that you can take the mat the same day, eliminating the wait for shipping.
Cost Comparisons
Prices can vary significantly between local stores and online retailers. While online stores may offer better deals or discounts, remember to factor in shipping costs, which can sometimes offset the lower price. In-person shopping allows you to avoid shipping fees, but keep in mind that local stores may mark up prices slightly to cover overhead costs.
Return Policies
Whether you shop online or in-person, it’s important to check the return policy. If you’re unsure whether a 36 inch wide exercise mat will suit your needs, buying from a retailer with a generous return policy can give you peace of mind. Many online retailers offer free returns within a set period, but be sure to read the fine print for any restrictions.
Top Benefits of 36 Inch Wide Exercise Mat
When choosing the best 36 inch wide exercise mat for your workouts, there are several key benefits that this extra width can provide. Whether you’re practicing yoga, Pilates, or engaging in general fitness activities, a 36 inch wide exercise mat offers a range of advantages that improve comfort, performance, and overall enjoyment during your exercise sessions. Below, we dive into the top benefits of choosing a 36 inch wide exercise mat.
More Room for Movement
One of the biggest advantages of a 36 inch wide exercise mat is the extra space it provides for movement. With a wider mat, you have more freedom to move your body without feeling cramped or restricted. This is especially important for exercises that require full-body movements, such as yoga poses, Pilates stretches, or dynamic workouts.
- Ensures Full Body Comfort: A wider mat accommodates the full range of your body’s movements. Whether you’re stretching your legs in a wide-legged stance during yoga or needing extra space for your arms while performing push-ups, a 36 inch wide exercise mat ensures that your body fits comfortably on the mat, even during large, expansive movements. This additional room allows you to perform exercises with better form and fewer distractions, as you won’t be limited by the edge of the mat.
- Prevents Cramped Feelings: Many standard-sized mats (typically 24 inches wide) may feel too narrow, especially for taller individuals or those with a larger body frame. The added width of a 36 inch wide exercise mat eliminates this concern, ensuring that you have enough room for your body to spread out and move naturally.
By choosing a 36 inch wide exercise mat, you can focus more on your movements and less on adjusting your position to avoid falling off the mat, which makes for a smoother, more enjoyable exercise experience.
Enhanced Comfort for Longer Sessions
Comfort is paramount, especially when you’re engaged in long or intense exercise sessions. The 36 inch wide exercise mat provides not only extra space but also a more comfortable surface for extended practices, making it ideal for activities such as long yoga sessions, Pilates, or floor-based strength training exercises.
- Perfect for Extended Yoga Practices: Whether you’re practicing a longer restorative yoga session or a dynamic Vinyasa flow, the extra width of a 36 inch wide exercise mat allows for more spacious and comfortable transitions between poses. This is especially true for those who hold poses for extended periods, as the wider mat gives you room to stretch out and relax without worrying about limited space.
- Ideal for Sensitive Joints: The added width can also increase overall comfort for those with sensitive joints. During long sessions, you may spend a lot of time on your knees, elbows, or back, and a wider mat gives you more cushioning and support, ensuring that your body is well-supported during floor exercises. This added comfort is especially important for those practicing restorative yoga or engaging in rehabilitation exercises.
The 36 inch wide exercise mat is perfect for anyone who values comfort during long workout sessions, offering a generous surface area that keeps you comfortable no matter how long your workout lasts.
Improved Performance
A 36 inch wide exercise mat doesn’t just make your workouts more comfortable—it can also enhance your performance. Having more space to move freely allows you to focus on proper alignment, balance, and technique, which is key for improving your overall fitness.
- Better Alignment for Yoga and Pilates: Proper alignment is crucial in practices like yoga and Pilates, where posture plays an essential role in the effectiveness of your workout and in preventing injury. A 36 inch wide exercise mat gives you the room to spread your body properly, ensuring that your hands, feet, and other body parts are positioned correctly throughout each pose or exercise. This spacious environment allows you to achieve the full benefits of each movement by maintaining the correct alignment and improving your posture.
- Improved Balance for Dynamic Exercises: Many exercises, particularly balance-focused activities such as Pilates or yoga, require a stable foundation. The extra width of a 36 inch wide exercise mat helps with balance by giving your body a wider base of support. This can be especially helpful during standing poses, balance drills, or floor exercises where stability is key to maintaining form. The added space reduces the risk of tipping or falling, making your workouts more effective and reducing the risk of injury.
- More Room for Dynamic Movements: For those who practice high-intensity or dynamic workouts (such as HIIT or bodyweight exercises), the 36 inch wide exercise mat offers more space to execute complex movements without running out of room. You can move, stretch, or jump with confidence, knowing that the mat will support your actions and provide stability, even for vigorous routines.
By choosing a 36 inch wide exercise mat, you can ensure that your performance improves over time. The added space supports proper form, balance, and alignment, helping you get the most out of your exercises and reach your fitness goals faster.
FAQs about 36 Inch Wide Exercise Mat
The best thickness for an exercise mat depends largely on the type of exercise you plan to do and your individual comfort needs. Generally, mats range in thickness from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch or more. For most people, a mat with a thickness of 1/4 inch (6mm) offers a good balance of support and cushioning, making it ideal for a wide range of exercises like yoga, Pilates, and stretching. If you’re looking for more cushioning for joint protection, especially during floor exercises or high-impact activities, a thicker mat, such as 1/2 inch (12mm), may be more suitable. However, thicker mats can sometimes feel less stable for balance-intensive exercises, so it’s important to consider the type of workout you’re doing. On the other hand, if you need a mat for traveling or prefer something lightweight, a thinner mat (around 1/16 inch or 1mm) may be ideal, although it may offer less cushioning and comfort for prolonged use. The key is to find the right balance of thickness and stability for your specific needs.
Yoga mats typically come in two standard widths: 24 inches (60 cm) and 36 inches (91 cm), though mats can be found in other custom sizes as well. The 24-inch width is the most common and works well for most individuals, providing enough room for standard yoga poses and movements. However, for people with larger body frames or those who prefer more space, a 36 inch wide exercise mat may be a better option, offering extra room for comfort during poses and stretches. Some yoga mats also come in square sizes, which provide additional flexibility for various types of exercises, such as Pilates or strength training. Choosing the right width depends on your body size, type of yoga, and personal preference. A wider mat allows you more space to move freely, which can be beneficial for more expansive yoga practices, such as restorative or yin yoga, where comfort and room to stretch are essential.
Yoga mats are often narrower than exercise mats to maintain portability, convenience, and cost-effectiveness. The standard width of 24 inches (60 cm) is typically sufficient for most practitioners, as it accommodates most yoga poses, particularly for individuals of average body size. Narrower mats also allow for easier storage and transport, which is essential for those who take their mats to yoga classes or practice on the go. Additionally, a narrower mat encourages users to focus on their alignment and positioning during poses, without feeling like they have too much extra space. However, as yoga has evolved, many practitioners have begun seeking wider mats to ensure comfort, especially for larger individuals or those who need more space for dynamic movements. This has led to the increasing availability of 36 inch wide exercise mats, which provide more room to move and practice, particularly in restorative or partner-based yoga. Ultimately, the narrowness of a standard yoga mat is a balance between practicality and the needs of most practitioners, though wider options are now more readily available.
The best thickness for a yoga mat depends on the type of yoga you practice and your personal preferences regarding comfort and stability. For most styles of yoga, a mat thickness of around 1/4 inch (6mm) is considered ideal. This provides a balance of cushioning for comfort, especially during floor poses, while still maintaining enough stability for balance poses and standing postures. If you practice more intense or fast-paced styles of yoga, like Vinyasa or Ashtanga, you might prefer a thinner mat (around 1/16 inch or 1.5mm), as it offers more stability and a firmer grip on the floor. However, for restorative practices or those with sensitive joints, a thicker mat (1/2 inch or 12mm) might be more suitable, providing extra cushioning for poses where you’re on the floor for longer periods of time. Ultimately, the best mat thickness is one that suits your body type, the style of yoga you practice, and your comfort preferences. A 36 inch wide exercise mat can further enhance the experience, providing more space to stretch out and relax.
Welcome! I’m Jordan Mitchell, the dedicated editor at Leadman Fitness, where we specialize in manufacturing high-quality bumper plates, barbells, weight machines, kettlebells, and dumbbells. With a passion for fitness and a keen eye for detail, I ensure that our product information is clear, accurate, and engaging for our customers. My role involves collaborating closely with our design and production teams to highlight the innovative features and superior craftsmanship that set Leadman Fitness apart in the industry. Whether you’re a professional athlete or a fitness enthusiast, I’m here to provide you with the information you need to achieve your training goals with our top-of-the-line equipment.