Buy a yoga mat – for fitness, Pilates & floor exercises

Gym mats for fitness, Pilates, and floor exercises

An exercise mat provides a cushioned surface for exercises performed lying, sitting, or kneeling. Whether for strengthening, Pilates, or stretching: the right training mat should offer sufficient space for movement and combine cushioning with a firmness suitable for your exercises. A thicker mat is not automatically the better choice – the material and how it reacts under pressure also influence comfort and stability.

At motion sports, you will find exercise mats from AIREX®, ATX®, Trendy Sport, and TRX in various sizes and thicknesses. The range extends from compact fitness mats and wide sports mats to foldable versions and models with hanging eyelets. This allows you to choose the right mat for your training at home, in the classroom, or at the gym.

When purchasing, pay particular attention to length, width, mat thickness, and material. For regular use, an easy-to-clean surface and appropriate storage are also important. If you intend to hang up multiple mats, check their compatibility with the intended wall mount.

Woman exercising in a lunge on a black gym mat

What should you look for when buying a yoga mat?

An exercise mat should be suited to your exercises, your height, and how often you use it. It is not just the dimensions and mat thickness that are crucial, but also cushioning, firmness, surface grip, and ease of care. These purchasing criteria will help you choose the right training mat.

Padding suitable for the exercise

Mat thickness, cushioning & firmness

The mat thickness influences the distance to the floor. How much you sink in under pressure also depends on the material and its firmness. Two gym mats of the same thickness can therefore feel significantly different.

For exercises lying down or kneeling, a more cushioned surface can improve comfort. For exercises standing or balancing, however, it is important that hands and feet do not sink in too deeply. A particularly thick or soft mat is therefore not the best choice for every exercise.

Planning freedom of movement correctly

Length & Width

The appropriate mat size depends on your height and the space required for your exercises. For exercises while lying on your back, your head and pelvis should be on the mat—if you stretch your legs out, a longer mat may be useful. A compact mat, on the other hand, may be sufficient if you mainly train while kneeling or sitting.

The width is particularly relevant for lateral movements, changing lying positions, or exercises with wide arm movements. In addition to the mat surface, plan for enough free space for movements that extend beyond the edge.

Targeted comparison of material properties

Mat material & dimensional stability

Depending on the model, exercise mats are made of, for example, NBR foam, TPE, or PVC foam. However, the material name alone does not indicate how soft, non-slip, or durable a mat is. Foam structure, material density, surface finish, and mat thickness also influence its properties.

For frequent use, dimensional stability and recovery behavior are particularly important: How does the mat react under pressure, and how well does it return to its original shape after the weight is removed? Also, pay attention to the manufacturer's instructions regarding use with shoes and potential weight limits.

Stop on both sides

Surface adhesion & flatness

For a reliable grip, two contact surfaces are crucial: the underside to the floor and the top side to hands, feet, or clothing. A mat may grip the floor well while behaving differently on the surface—especially in the presence of moisture or sweat.

In addition, the exercise mat should lie as flat as possible without curling up significantly at the edges. Adhesion also depends on the floor surface and its cleanliness. Dust, moisture, and unsuitable floor surfaces can impair it.

Maintenance according to usage

Cleaning & Hygiene

With regular training, the mat should be easy to clean and allow for complete drying. Closed surfaces and closed-cell foams can limit the absorption of moisture and dirt. However, which cleaning agents are suitable depends on the material and coating.

If several people use the same mats, for example in a gym or exercise room, the cleaning instructions and, where applicable, the approval for suitable disinfectants are particularly important. Antimicrobial features do not replace regular cleaning.

Easy to store and transport

Storage, eyelets & transport

Before purchasing, consider whether you want to transport, roll up, fold, or hang the exercise mat after each session. Foldable models can be stored differently than rollable mats. A rollable mat should not be automatically folded, as sharp creases can damage the material.

For multiple mats, hanging eyelets and matching wall mounts are practical. In this case, the eyelet spacing, opening diameter, and mount must be compatible. There are also mounts for mats without eyelets, the suitability of which depends on the mat width and the respective design.

Which exercise mat is suitable for your intended use?

Gymnastikmatten für Pilates bei motion sports kaufen

Exercise mats for Pilates

During Pilates and functional exercises, you frequently switch between lying positions, the quadruped position, and support exercises. The mat should comfortably cushion contact points while allowing for controlled positioning of your hands, knees, and feet. For this, a uniform, sufficiently firm surface is important.

A very soft mat can give way too much during support exercises, making stabilization more difficult. Conversely, an especially thin surface may offer insufficient comfort when kneeling for longer periods or lying on your side. The balance between cushioning and firmness is therefore crucial.

  • What matters: Reliable surface grip, good flatness, and padding that suits the intensity of your exercises.
  • Why this design? It supports changing positions without you sinking unnecessarily deep into the mat.
  • When to choose? If you perform active floor exercises with frequent position changes and weight-bearing support.
View gymnastics mats for Pilates.

Exercise mats for stretching

For longer exercises while lying down, sitting, or kneeling, comfort is the primary focus. Resilient padding can make contact with a hard floor more pleasant – for example, on the knees, elbows, or the side of the hips.

A thicker exercise mat can be useful here. Even so, it should retain enough substance under the areas of the body under pressure. Thickness alone is not enough for selection, as foams of different densities compress to varying degrees under load.

  • What matters: Comfortable pressure distribution, sufficient padding, and a mat surface suitable for the body position.
  • Why this version? When in contact with the floor for longer periods, comfort at the points of contact is especially important.
  • When to choose? If you primarily perform calm exercises with longer-held lying, sitting, or kneeling positions.
View gymnastics mats for stretching.
Gymnastikmatten für Fitnessstudios bei motion sports kaufen

Exercise mats for gyms

In a class setting, a mat must not only be suitable for the exercises but also withstand frequent use, regular cleaning, and repeated storage. A durable surface, reliable dimensional stability, and care instructions that can be implemented in everyday studio life are crucial.

Eyelets are practical if mats are to be stored on a suitable wall mount between classes. To achieve this, the eyelet spacing and the mount must be compatible. For multiple training stations, consistent dimensions and easily planned storage are also helpful.

  • What matters: Durability, cleaning options, appropriate cushioning for the range of classes, and a suitable storage system.
  • Why this version? With shared use, training comfort and organizational requirements must be met in equal measure.
  • When to choose? When mats are regularly used by different people and cleaned and stored between sessions.
View gym mats for studios.
Sportmatten für flächiges Bodentraining bei motion sports kaufen

Exercise mats for floor training

For exercises with lateral position changes, wide arm movements, or greater range of motion on the floor, a narrow mat can limit the usable surface area. A wide exercise mat provides more space, so you don't have to adjust your position to the edge of the mat as often.

This can also be helpful for guided individual exercises when more surface area is needed for the movement. Choose the cushioning separately: More width does not automatically mean that a particularly thick or soft mat is required.

  • What matters: Sufficient length and width, firmness appropriate for the exercise, and enough clear training space.
  • Why this version? It offers more contiguous surface area for movements that extend beyond a narrow training mat.
  • When to choose? If your exercises often result in parts of your body extending laterally over the edge of the mat or if you need more space for position changes.
View floor exercise mats.
Gymnastikmatten für unterwegs bei motion sports kaufen

Exercise mats for on the go

If you take your mat with you to class or have to clear the training area after every session, in addition to training performance, weight, packed size, and ease of handling are key. A foldable mat designed for this purpose or an easily transportable roll-up model can make regular use easier.

However, the transport advantage should suit the exercise: a compact, thinner mat may be practical, but can offer less comfort when kneeling on hard floors for long periods. Therefore, check first whether the training surface and cushioning are sufficient, and then how the mat can be stored.

  • What matters: Handy packed size, portable weight, sufficient training surface, and a suitable transport option.
  • Why this version? It is easy to take with you and can be stored in a space-saving way after training.
  • When to choose? If you frequently change your training location or do not have a permanently set-up training area.
View exercise mats for on the go.

Gym mats compared – which model fits your workout?

Property AIREX® Heritage AIREX® Coronella 185 AIREX® Fitline 180 with eyelets AIREX® Corona 200 Trendy Sport Folding Mat
Length × Width 190 x 60 cm 185 × 60 cm 180 × 60 cm 200 × 100 cm 180 × 60 cm
Mat thickness 8 mm 15 mm 10 mm 15 mm 6 mm
Mat material PVC foam PVC foam PVC foam PVC foam TPE
Hanging loops No No Yes No No
Storage / Transport Rollable Rollable Hangs from a suitable bracket More storage space thanks to wide format Foldable, includes carrying strap
Main area of operation Pilates and varying floor exercises Prolonged lying and kneeling positions Regular training in the studio Floor exercises requiring more space Training at changing locations
Decisive selection criterion Long training area with moderate intensity Stronger padding in a slim format Eyelets for the organized storage of multiple mats 100 cm width for more room to move Compact, foldable, and easy to take with you
Please note before selecting Allow for a width of 60 cm for lateral movements Consider stability during support exercises Match the eyelet spacing with the wall mount. Plan for sufficient training and storage space Check whether 6 mm padding is sufficient for your exercises.
AIREX® Heritage
Length × Width
190 x 60 cm
Mat thickness
8 mm
Mat material
PVC foam
Hanging loops
No
Storage / Transport
Rollable
Main area of operation
Pilates and varying floor exercises
Decisive selection criterion
Long training area with moderate intensity
Please note before selecting
Allow for a width of 60 cm for lateral movements
AIREX® Coronella 185
Length × Width
185 × 60 cm
Mat thickness
15 mm
Mat material
PVC foam
Hanging loops
No
Storage / Transport
Rollable
Main area of operation
Prolonged lying and kneeling positions
Decisive selection criterion
Stronger padding in a slim format
Please note before selecting
Consider stability during support exercises
AIREX® Fitline 180 with eyelets
Length × Width
180 × 60 cm
Mat thickness
10 mm
Mat material
PVC foam
Hanging loops
Yes
Storage / Transport
Hangs from a suitable bracket
Main area of operation
Regular training in the studio
Decisive selection criterion
Eyelets for the organized storage of multiple mats
Please note before selecting
Match the eyelet spacing with the wall mount.
AIREX® Corona 200
Length × Width
200 × 100 cm
Mat thickness
15 mm
Mat material
PVC foam
Hanging loops
No
Storage / Transport
More storage space thanks to wide format
Main area of operation
Floor exercises requiring more space
Decisive selection criterion
100 cm width for more room to move
Please note before selecting
Plan for sufficient training and storage space
Trendy Sport Folding Mat
Length × Width
180 × 60 cm
Mat thickness
6 mm
Mat material
TPE
Hanging loops
No
Storage / Transport
Foldable, includes carrying strap
Main area of operation
Training at changing locations
Decisive selection criterion
Compact, foldable, and easy to take with you
Please note before selecting
Check whether 6 mm padding is sufficient for your exercises.

Exercise mats in detail – the right surface for your workouts

How well a gymnastics mat suits you is determined by the movements you actually perform. A comfortable surface for prolonged lying positions must meet different requirements than a mat for frequent support exercises or changing users in a classroom. The following information will help you better classify product specifications and avoid typical bad purchases.

How thick should a gymnastics mat be?

The appropriate mat thickness depends on which body areas are resting on it and how you load the surface. For prolonged kneeling or lying on your side, support comfort is more important. For support exercises, it is also important that your hands and feet do not sink in so deep that positioning becomes difficult. However, the thickness only describes the material height in an unloaded state. It does not indicate how much the mat yields under your body weight. A thicker, softer mat can compress more than a thinner, firmer version.

For a mixed training routine, you should therefore consider the most demanding positions: Is the surface comfortable when kneeling? Do your hands remain sufficiently stable during support exercises? The right combination of cushioning and firmness is more important than the highest possible number of millimeters.

Can fitness mats of the same thickness be differently comfortable?

In addition to thickness, foam structure, material density, and resilience influence the feeling when lying down and training. Resilience describes how the material returns to its original shape after being subjected to load. The size of the contact area also plays a role: an elbow or knee loads a smaller area than the back. A mat that feels comfortable when lying down may therefore yield significantly more under a single point of pressure.

If possible, compare models based on your typical exercises. The designation NBR, TPE, or PVC foam alone is not enough to reliably assess cushioning, firmness, or durability.

What mat size do you need for your exercises?

Use your movement execution as a guide for length and width. Your height is a reference point but does not fully represent the actual space required.

  • Exercises in a supine position: Check whether your head, pelvis, and desired leg positions fit on the mat.
  • Lateral lying positions and rotational movements: Consider additional width so that you do not have to constantly adjust your position to the edge of the mat.
  • Exercises while sitting or kneeling: A shorter surface may be sufficient if only a limited body area has contact with the floor.
  • Switching between multiple positions: Plan for enough space so you have to reorient yourself as little as possible during the session.

A practical size comparison helps: 180 × 60 cm equals 1.08 m², while 200 × 100 cm offers an area of 2 m². The second mat therefore requires almost twice as much floor space. Before buying, check whether this area is available for both training and storage.

Gymnastics mat or yoga mat – which differences are relevant?

The terms overlap and are not a reliable decision-making aid on their own. It is more important how you train.

For yoga with many standing positions and balance elements, direct contact with the ground and grip under your hands and feet play a major role. For longer floor positions, on the other hand, more cushioning can be comfortable. With Pilates, the requirements also change with the exercises. A mat should be comfortable when lying down and provide sufficient stability for support positions.

Therefore, choose based on exercise profile, surface grip, and behavior under load. A mat described as a gymnastics mat may be suitable for your yoga practice, while a particularly soft version may be less suitable for certain standing exercises.

What influence does the floor have on the gymnastics mat?

The mat and the surface together form your training area. On a firm, level floor, the behavior of the mat can be assessed better than on a soft or uneven surface.

A carpet can create additional yield. On smooth floors, dust and moisture influence grip. The top side of the mat can also behave differently when covered in sweat than in a dry state. Therefore, place the mat on a clean, dry, and level surface. Before starting your session, check with a light load to see if it slips or bunches up. For sensitive flooring, also observe the care and compatibility instructions from both the floor and mat manufacturer.

Gymnastics mat as floor protection under fitness equipment?

A gymnastics mat is primarily a training surface for body exercises. It is not automatically designed for the long-term load of weight benches, treadmills, or other heavy equipment.

Equipment feet concentrate weight on small areas. This can cause pressure marks or material damage. A highly yielding surface can also affect the stability of a piece of equipment. Use a floor protection mat suitable for the purpose under fitness equipment. A gymnastics mat is also no substitute for a dedicated fitness floor when setting down or dropping dumbbells.

What should be considered with gymnastics mats with eyelets?

For wall mounting, the eyelet spacing, eyelet opening, and mount must fit together. The width of the mat alone is not enough to assess compatibility. Compare the measurements and pay attention to whether distances are specified, for example, from center to center. The eyelets should fit onto the mount without excessive pulling or deformation. Also consider the permissible load capacity and usable projection of the mount. How many mats it can hold also depends on their thickness.

For mats without eyelets, there are other storage systems. Use a solution intended for this purpose rather than drilling through the mat yourself later.

What information helps when equipping a classroom?

First determine which exercises will predominantly take place and how many people will be training at the same time. Then plan mat area, movement space, and walkways together. The mere number of mats that fit on the floor side-by-side does not constitute meaningful classroom planning. The following points are also relevant for ongoing operation:

  • Uniform design: Identical models and thicknesses facilitate consistent equipment.
  • Cleaning: The intended agents and procedures must be compatible with the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Storage: Mounts require sufficient capacity and should be easily accessible.
  • Replacement needs: Individual damaged or temporarily unusable mats should be easily replaceable.

For sets, check whether the dimensions, thickness, and eyelet configuration of the included mats exactly match your needs. A low set price is of little help if the mats are not compatible with existing storage.

How do you recognize that a training mat should be replaced?

Regularly check your gymnastics mat for tears, detached surfaces, damaged eyelets, and permanently deformed areas. The deciding factor is whether you can continue to use it reliably and clean it according to the manufacturer's instructions. If the mat slips noticeably, bulges significantly, or yields unevenly under load despite suitable cleaning and an appropriate surface, you should check the cause. Damaged eyelets must no longer be used for hanging.

A mat suitable for the intended use and careful maintenance create the foundation for a long service life. However, the actual lifespan depends on usage, storage, and material condition – not just the age of the mat.

Suitable accessories for your workout on the exercise mat.

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All you need to know.

Frequently asked questions about exercise mats.

The decisive factors are your exercises, the required training space, and storage. For varied floor exercises, the mat should provide comfortable cushioning while remaining sufficiently stable for supporting positions. If you train lying down frequently, take your extended body position into account. If you want to clear the room again after each session, also pay attention to the packed size, weight, and a suitable storage option.

No. In addition to the thickness, the firmness of the foam determines how much you sink in. More padding can make long lying and kneeling positions more comfortable. However, a very soft surface can give way more than desired during standing or support exercises. Therefore, compare mat thickness and material behavior together, to suit your most frequent exercises.

In our product range, you will find, for example, the AIREX® Heritage with a length of 190 cm as well as the Fitline 200, Coronella 200, and Corona 200 with a length of 200 cm. In addition to your body height, also consider the exercise position. Arms extended above the head require extra space. For lateral movements, the mat width is also relevant.

This depends on the specific model. Only use mats outdoors that are intended for this use by the manufacturer. Choose a level surface without sharp stones or other objects that could damage the material. Approval for outdoor training does not automatically mean that the mat can be permanently exposed to sun, rain, or frost.

Check the manufacturer's instructions regarding use with shoes. Sole tread patterns, dirt, and twisting movements can cause more wear to the surface than training barefoot. Not every soft fitness mat is designed for this. If you train in shoes regularly, choose a model explicitly suitable for this purpose and ensure your soles are clean.

No. Rollable does not mean foldable. Only fold a mat if it is designed for that purpose. Sharp creases can cause permanent deformation or material damage in other models. The foldable Trendy sports mat with carrying strap is designed to be folded; for other versions, please follow the respective storage instructions.

No. The eyelet spacing, opening diameter, and the design of the mounting bracket are the decisive factors. The mat must be able to be hung without strong pulling or deformation. If using multiple mats, also check the permissible load capacity and the capacity of the holder. The possible quantity also depends on the thickness of the mats.

In a closed-cell foam, the cells are predominantly sealed off from one another. This limits the absorption of water into the material and can make cleaning easier. The surface must still be cleaned regularly and subsequently dried. This specification does not automatically mean that the mat is suitable for every cleaning agent or for prolonged soaking.

No. Depending on the design, an antimicrobial finish can serve to protect the material. However, it does not remove sweat or dirt and is not a substitute for cleaning. Particularly when used by multiple people, the manufacturer's care instructions and any approved disinfection procedures are authoritative.

This depends on the specific model and scope of delivery. The foldable Trendy sports mat includes a carrying strap. However, hanging eyelets on a mat do not mean that a wall mount is also included. Check the product page to see which accessories are supplied and what you need to purchase separately.

Ordering, Delivery & Care.

Everything you need to know.

What should I check before ordering a yoga mat?

Compare the length, width, mat thickness, and design with your training requirements. For products with multiple variants, ensure you select the desired thickness and eyelet configuration. Also, check the scope of delivery. Is it a single mat or a set, and are a carrying strap or other accessories included?

How will my exercise mat be delivered?

You can find delivery times and shipping information on the respective product page or at checkout. If ordering multiple mats or an additional wall mount, the delivery may consist of several packages. Please check the completeness and condition of the goods upon receipt. In the event of visible damage, photos of the packaging and the affected areas will help us process your request quickly.

What should I keep in mind before using it for the first time?

Remove the packaging and lay the mat out on a clean, dry, and level surface. If it was packed rolled or folded, allow it time to flatten out according to the manufacturer's instructions. Do not force it to lie flat by making sharp creases or applying additional heat. Before exercising, check that the mat lies evenly and provides sufficient grip under light pressure.

How do I clean my exercise mat properly?

Remove sweat and light dirt with a soft, slightly damp cloth. If necessary, use a cleaning agent recommended or approved by the manufacturer and follow the dosage instructions. Aggressive cleaners, scouring agents, and hard brushes can damage the surface. Allow the mat to air dry completely before rolling, folding, or storing it.
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Which exercise mat is right for your workouts?

Are you looking for a comfortable surface for your floor exercises, a compact mat for when you're on the go, or the right equipment for your studio? We will help you tailor the size, padding, and storage to your specific requirements. Our team is happy to assist you with your selection – by phone (08142/ 448666), via email, or directly in our showroom. Together, we will find the ideal solution for your project.

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