Now one of the most popular practices of the modern age, yoga has a very long history. There is no definitive information on exactly when or by whom it was first practiced, but ruins and ancient artifacts show it has been practiced for thousands of years. Some sources say its history goes back as far as 2700 BC.
Yoga was introduced to the modern world toward the end of the 19th century, when an Indian yogi's trip to America opened yoga up to the country at the center of popular culture. Years later, as yoga spread around the world, a yogi began working on creating the first yoga mat. This yogi was looking for something to keep their hands and feet from slipping on the floor during practice. One day, they discovered the non-slip pads placed under rugs and began practicing on them. That is how the first yoga mat in history came about, and the invention was developed into its modern form. Today, mats are made for yogis of every level. Yoga mats come in different lengths and thicknesses, as well as different materials.
Beginner Yoga Mats
If you're new to yoga and not sure what kind of mat to buy, a beginner-level mat will be the ideal choice for you. Mats at this level give you the cushioning you need, preventing pressure on your joints as you move so your knees and elbows stay more comfortable. Their non-slip grip also supports you in balancing poses and standing postures, and the special surface texture improves your grip.
Made with a closed-cell construction, these mats keep sweat on the surface instead of absorbing it when you sweat during practice. This helps prevent bacteria and odors. Surfaces like this are also very easy to clean: after every practice, simply spray on a special yoga mat wash and wipe it down.
Designed for beginner yogis, these mats have an alignment line in the center. This line guides you so you can perform new asanas correctly, showing you where to place your hands and feet. You can keep relying on this alignment guide even as you advance. Today, guiding patterns like this are also found on many advanced mats.
Beginner Yoga Mat Dimensions
These mats are made specifically for yoga beginners. They weigh just 1 kg. The 172 cm and 180 cm long mats are 61 cm wide. A 5 mm thickness provides ideal cushioning while staying easy to carry. If you like to practice yoga in different places, you can take your mat wherever you want. You can use these mats not only for yoga but also for many floor exercises during fitness workouts. It is a practical, reversible style you can use on both sides.