Most Gyms and Pilates studios have Pilates mats which will usually be of a good quality and available to use. Of course if you have your own mat, you may very well want to take it to the gym with you, but the real reason to get a Pilates mat is for your home workout.
In the comfort of your own home there is no embarrassment when you show that 'bit' you don't want people to see and you have the confidence to try those more advanced moves that when people are watching you may avoid!!
When deciding which you would go for a yoga mat or a Pilates mat generally they have a large number of similarities, both are of a similar size and shape. However, a Pilates mat needs to be thicker than yoga mats. The reason is in Pilates it is vital to have that extra cushioning from the hard non forgiving floor, the reason being is if you know your Pilates many more of the exercises rely on you rolling around and without the extra padding many will become very uncomfortable!! In yoga there are a number of standing exercises that need that contact with the floor to provide the correct base for the exercise therefore the mats are made slightly thinner and with more grip. For yoga a lot of the exercises require a large amount of grip to stop yourself ending up face first on the floor! With Pilates many of the exercises are more gentle and do not require the grip of the Yoga mats.
A good Pilates mat is at least a half inch thick, with an inch generally being what you would desire. There are many thinner mats marketed as Pilates mats, but they are really just yoga mats or some type of crossover of the two. You need provide your back with enough support and padding when exercising on a hard surface, therefore the requirement for the extra thickness.
The Pilates mat should also be firm. A mat that is too soft will not support balance and alignment properly.
Make sure that the mat is long enough and wide enough for you! The length and width can vary a lot from mat to mat.
You just need to find the one that is most suitable for your body shape. Roll up mats are generally the smaller version available with the fold up ones being much larger. Always ask the retailer to make sure you get the right size you require!
The mats that roll up offer the benefits of being portable and easy to store. These mats are usually made of dense foam or rubber.
Look for a mat that comes with straps to keep the mat rolled up for easier storage and carrying.
Pilates Mats comes in a wide range of sizes, styles and colors. When shopping for a suitable mat, it's important to consider what you really want!
Article by Craig Collins March Sports of Southampton. Great products, great prices with great service.
Currently all fitness products at least 20% off!!
沒有留言:
張貼留言