Pilates Mat Selection

Pilates and yoga exercises that have changed the way they think about fitness to a large extent. In the past we needed to set aside time for running, aerobics and jazzercise. Today you can sit on your very own Pilates mat in your bedroom and practice the exercises prescribed.

Using the Pilates mat as a compulsory prop is the only way you could perform your prescribed Pilates exercises. The Pilates mat exercises are aimed at the abdominal, buttock and the hamstring muscles. On a secondary basis, Pilates exercises do also help improves your core of the body. Core in Pilates means the back, abdomen, and chest muscles.

Pilates mats tend be thicker than your typical mats used for yoga in order to provide better cushioning for the joints, hips, and spine as these areas experience more stress during a Pilates workout due to the focus being on cultivating core strength in the body and lengthening the spine. Since the typical Pilates mats are non-sticky and non-absorbent, it’s a good idea to avoid using a Pilates mat for Yoga unless your mat can securely hold a towel in place during your Yoga sessions.

There are usually certain types of machines that assist in the exercises and improve their overall impact, however, there are sufficient Pilates mat exercises that can complement and even substitute such exercises. Although the results may vary from the person to person, it is astonishing how soon people benefit from these exercises and how easy you can see the outstanding results.

Who Can Do Exercises on a Pilates Mat?

Anybody can perform exercises on a Pilates mat without any exceptions. These exercises were initially designed by Joseph Pilate who had been sick during his childhood. Joseph invented the whole set up and the popularity soared over the years.

A word of caution here - Do not think that because the exercises are slow and easy to do, you should be have no problem if you adopt these exercises at home on your own. You do need to get obvious clearance from your doctor and use the skills and knowledge of a proper instructor. These services are essential prior to starting any new exercise or diet plan.

The instructor will put you on the correct regime, while monitoring whether you are performing as it is supposed to be. The instructor will also see to it that you are not overworked, which usually happens because the exercise seems slow and relatively easy when compared to swimming or aerobics. Die to the fact that they seem low-impact, people can over stretch and hurt themselves rather than gaining anything.

Differences between a Pilates and Yoga Mat

Yoga and Pilates studios often require you to bring your own mats to class. Having the proper equipment for both Yoga and Pilates will help you execute the exercises more effectively and have an overall better experience in class. Although you may use a yoga mat for Pilates practice, you benefit from selecting a mat designed specifically for Pilates. The main differences will be highlighted below:

Yoga Mats

Yoga exercises focus on poses aimed at improving physical flexibility and energy flow. Mats in yoga are often called sticky mats because they have a specially designed surface that enhances your ability to grip the mat with your palms and feet. Various materials are used to make mats, including latex, cotton, rubber and microfiber. Yoga mats range in thickness from 3.2mm to about 5.5mm with some premium mats being as thick as 6.4mm. A standard sized mat is typically 24 inches by 68 inches.

Pilates Mats

Pilates consists of a series of exercises focusing on the core muscles, most of which are performed in a supine or prone position. Because Pilates requires a good deal of rolling, Pilates mats should be at least 1/2 inch thick. Pilates mats are typically 72 to 86 inches long and range from 21 to 39 inches wide. Mats may roll up for easy transport or fold for vertical storage. Most Pilates mats are made of foam or rubber. Look for a closed-cell construction, as opposed to a regular pressed foam mat, as it provides a firmer and thicker surface on which to work.

Cost Comparison

Yoga mats are available in many stores and are priced from $15 to more than $100 for a premium mat. The price typically depends on the brand, the material and the size of the mat. Portable roll-up style Pilates mats tend to be priced from around $20 to more than $50. The features offered with the mat include a fastening strap and the brand name, which does influence the price.

Considerations

Your particular needs will help you decide which type of mat you need for each discipline. In yoga, a thinner mat helps you feel the floor in standing and balancing poses. However, if you practice a yoga style focused on seated poses and breath work, a thicker mat may be more appropriate. Composition of the mat could be important if you have sensitivities to latex or other manufactured materials. The more advanced you are in your Pilates practice, the more rolling exercises you will execute and the thickness of your mat becomes paramount. In both disciplines, if you plan to practice in a studio or fitness center, portability is a key consideration when choosing a mat.