Studios can vary in terms of supplying yoga mats to their students. Some rent theirs out, others have them laid out for free, and probably have not so good quality mats for you to use, others don’t even have any. Just a few of the concerns you might have while looking for a good yoga studio to practice in. You’re already thinking about finding a good class and a teacher you connect with, would you want to worry about your mat too?
View this post on Instagram
(The right activewear will not only improve your practice but will help you to stand out on your mat. Shop these women’s leggings here.)
If you’ve been practicing for a few weeks already and are considering purchasing your own mat but still on the fence about it, here are a few reasons why you should get your own:
1. It’s better insurance for your wrists and knees to decrease chances of getting injured.
Good cushioning and a firm enough mat material is important to a sustainable yoga practice. Some studios try to save on money and provide mediocre to bad quality mats and most people end up using them. It’s essential to find a good enough mat that helps support your wrists and knees without them sinking to the floor that you end up feeling the ground instead of the mat. Continuous use of bad mats, whether they’re too thin or too soft, will create stress on your joints and could increase your risk of injury – something unnecessary for a practice that was supposed to be helping you in the first place.
2. Adds value to your practice.
This is something we have to take note and be wary of at the same time. Not in a sense of promoting attachment to things because you’re only using your own mat, but to add value to a practice that you want to take seriously. The moment that you start making purchases to feed into your yoga practice, you know it’s become a commitment. You’ll be more motivated to go. And you’ll build a friendly relationship with your mat. Again, nothing towards attachment but just taking something with you as you go through your yoga journey.
3. Above all, it’s more hygienic.
Google right now what some of the dirtiest surfaces are and you’ll find: yoga mat. So much bacteria and sweat accumulate when you use it that it’s just so much better to have your own. You can maintain it better and make sure that it’s always 100% clean when you use it. You can never be too sure when you use those studio provided mats if they are thoroughly cleaned. And even then, just for sanitary reasons, it’s always better to use your own stuff.
Now we know that a good quality mat can be quite expensive and you might not be willing to make that big of a purchase right away. But one thing to consider is that excellent quality yoga mats will last you a lifetime. So, do your research on both local and international brands that have good reputations and great reviews and invest in one. It’ll be so much better in the long run.
