Exercise mats are used daily in recreation centers for group classes or in stretching areas. Something that gets continuous use must hold up to the constant demands placed on them. When looking to buy new exercise mats, you want to be sure they meet all of the following criteria:
- They should not tear or easily puncture.
- The mats should not absorb any perspiration or water.
- They should offer comfort to the individual user by not being too soft or too hard, but having a perfect balance.
Also, be sure to look for a mat that is at least 0.25 inches thick or thicker. This will help provide more comfort to the user.
Storing exercise mats can become an issue when your space is limited. Be sure to look for an exercise mat that has grommets for hanging. By hanging up the mats, you can keep them off the floor when they are not in use and save floor space. There are wall hangers you can get that allow you to hang them on the wall, or vertical towers with multiple sides that allow you to hang more mats.
How long do you want your mats to last?
If you’re using your mats in group exercise classes on a weekly basis, they may not last as long as you would like. Make sure the exercise mats you choose come with a warranty. Preferably three years or more is best, or whatever you are comfortable with.
Looking for custom exercise mats?
Some exercise mats let you customize them by having your logo or name embossed on them. Some mats are also available in different colors rather than just one or two.
There are many different exercise mats out there to choose from, which makes it hard to decide which mat is worth the money. Make sure the exercise mat you choose follows all of the criteria mentioned above, and you should be left with a reliable, resistant and durable mat that will last you a long time.
Cindy Rittenberry is the director of catalog/inside sales at Kiefer USA. For more information, email cindy@kieferusa.comor visit kieferusa.com.
