Regular exercise is vital for health. It used to be easier to stay active as people could go out to walk, jog, run, bike, swim, lift at the gym, or play sports as much as they like. However, movements are restricted now and many fitness establishments are closed. Individuals are forced to improvise to create their own home gyms. The purchase of fancy equipment can be helpful but it’s not necessary. People can start with the basics such as a 3mm yoga mat. This cheap and versatile gear can do so much despite costing so little.
Protect Your Joints with Cushioning
Yoga poses will sometimes have you kneeling on the floor. You might also go on all fours. These can be hard on the joints if you were to do them directly on the ground. Imagine your knees grinding on hard concrete. This can lead to injuries over time. It may become painful to walk after your practice. Simply adding a layer of cushioning can prevent pain and other forms of harm. It will make exercise more sustainable.
Get Insulation from the Cold Floor
If you have tile or concrete flooring, then it is likely to get quite cold during certain months of the year. It would be uncomfortable to perform exercises that require bare feet. It might be unbearable to have direct contact with the ground. Some poses might even have you lying down on the floor. It would be much better to have insulation from a yoga mat. The rubber compound is enough to reduce the impact of extreme temperatures. If you need more protection, then buy a thicker mat.
Keep Your Sweat Away from the Floor
If you do it correctly, then exercise should make you sweat. It is a natural response to increased body heat. Sweat is meant to cool you down but it can also put stains on the floor. It can also make the ground slippery which could become a hard to you or anyone who happens to pass by. Some people use a yoga mat to prevent sweat from dripping to the floor and getting absorbed by their carpet or wooden planks.
Do More Calisthenics for Fitness
It may be called a 3mm yoga mat but it can also be used for other forms of exercise. For example, you can use it for planks to prevent pain under your forearms. You could also use it when doing crunches or sit-ups so you won’t hurt your back.