I started out using discount store yoga mats. With my frequency of workouts (almost daily), I went through three mats fairly quickly. The size is great -- not so big as to overwhelm the studio, but enough to feel comfortable (I'm 5'10"). My thoughts on several comments I saw in other reviews: Common comment: The surface is slippery when covered in sweat.
With the Manduka, there was an immediate difference. It never bunches up and gets stickier with use.
It doesn't smell either. My hands and feet sweat a lot and this mat holds me in place.
I bought the mat with the matching bag as a set from Amazon.com, and once I slid the movable shoulder pad up to cover the buckle, off I went. As far as slippage is concerned, I experienced some foot slippage the first time I used it but have had no problems since. Despite a claim that it is "non-toxic," I did my research and sure enough, it is made with PVC! PVC is an extremely toxic material used in cars and vinyl shower curtains, among others. Bottom line, it's got some heft to it but it's not non-transportable, as has been reported in some reviews. I'm all of 5'1" and average weight and didn't find it prohibitively heavy. So I decided to buy a better quality mat. Reviews here and elsewhere led me straight to the Manduka BlackMat. This is a luxury mat that is absolutely awesome to use. This mat offers enough cushion for balance security and allows you to relax and actually breathe into poses instead of constant rearranging yourself and hating being in class. My new mat has light grey streaks on it. This is a thick, heavy mat similar to industrial floor matting.
I put my knees into it all the time and it feels just fine. The mat is rolled out over vinyl flooring, so the mat is all the cushion I have.
My knees need a little TLC and they are so much happier since I have been using this mat. I think this is a great option for at home, but it's a little heavy to be carting to classes on public transportation. I really enjoy this mat. It was a little pricey but works very well. Especially if you're sweating - it turns into a skating rink. I use a towel, but even one drop of sweat can do the trick.
In the end I took the plunge, got the sucker in the mail and have never, EVER looked back. It's amazing how a good quality mat can improve your workout and last a lifetime.
With the Manduka, there was an immediate difference. It never bunches up and gets stickier with use.
It doesn't smell either. My hands and feet sweat a lot and this mat holds me in place.
I bought the mat with the matching bag as a set from Amazon.com, and once I slid the movable shoulder pad up to cover the buckle, off I went. As far as slippage is concerned, I experienced some foot slippage the first time I used it but have had no problems since. Despite a claim that it is "non-toxic," I did my research and sure enough, it is made with PVC! PVC is an extremely toxic material used in cars and vinyl shower curtains, among others. Bottom line, it's got some heft to it but it's not non-transportable, as has been reported in some reviews. I'm all of 5'1" and average weight and didn't find it prohibitively heavy. So I decided to buy a better quality mat. Reviews here and elsewhere led me straight to the Manduka BlackMat. This is a luxury mat that is absolutely awesome to use. This mat offers enough cushion for balance security and allows you to relax and actually breathe into poses instead of constant rearranging yourself and hating being in class. My new mat has light grey streaks on it. This is a thick, heavy mat similar to industrial floor matting.
I put my knees into it all the time and it feels just fine. The mat is rolled out over vinyl flooring, so the mat is all the cushion I have.
My knees need a little TLC and they are so much happier since I have been using this mat. I think this is a great option for at home, but it's a little heavy to be carting to classes on public transportation. I really enjoy this mat. It was a little pricey but works very well. Especially if you're sweating - it turns into a skating rink. I use a towel, but even one drop of sweat can do the trick.
In the end I took the plunge, got the sucker in the mail and have never, EVER looked back. It's amazing how a good quality mat can improve your workout and last a lifetime.
About the Author:
It is a dense, rubbery mat that makes my hands and feet really stick during my yoga. Cherry Wood Coffee Table.
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