When determining the length of a yoga mat you need, it primarily depends on your height and the type of yoga practice you engage in. It is generally recommended that your yoga mat is long enough to comfortably accommodate your full body length.
If you are of average height (around 5'6" to 6'2"), a standard yoga mat, which is typically about 68 inches (173 cm) long, should be sufficient. This size will allow you to lie down completely without your head or feet hanging off the mat.
However, if you are taller than 6'2", consider purchasing an extra-long mat that ranges from 72–84 inches (183-213 cm) to adequately fit your entire body length.
On the other hand, if you are shorter in height, you can still use a standard-sized mat without any issues. Just ensure that you have enough space to perform your yoga poses comfortably while staying within the mat's boundaries.
It's worth noting that more padding or thickness of the mat does not necessarily affect the required length, but it can provide additional support and cushioning for your joints and spine during practice.
Ultimately, aim for a yoga mat that allows you to move freely, comfortably fits your body length, and provides a stable surface for your yoga practice.
Best Yoga Mats Of 2024
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
BOBO BANANA 1/4 Thick TPE Yoga Mat,72"x24" Eco-friendly Non-Slip Exercise & Fitness Mat for Men&Women with Carrying Strap, Home Workout Mat for Yoga,Pilates& Floor Exercise (pink)
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Bobo banana yoga mat is made with SGS certificated TPE material.
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It neutralizes the advantages of traditional PVC or NBR material, which features higher elasticity, recyclable & better tear resistance.
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It can endure longer time than any other plastic and rubber mats when doing yoga practice. Parents can choose it as play mat for kids.
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It can be truly grippy and safe so you can do yoga postures like Hatha, Yin, therapeutic, restorative etc.
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat Fitness & Exercise Mat With Easy-Cinch Carrier Strap, Teal, 72"L X 24"W X 2/5 Inch Thick
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FITNESS & EXERCISE MAT: Classic yoga mat is great for all types of fitness and exercise routines including yoga, Pilates and any floor exercise where additional cushion and support is appreciated.
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EXTRA THICK YOGA MAT: These 2/5 inch exercise mats make for the ideal all purpose fitness mat in the studio or at home, even around the house under knees or as a standing pad or cushion.
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SOFT CUSHION: This yoga mat made of NBR foam is designed to provide soft cushioning with the padded material for comfortable stretching and posing - an ideal yoga mat for beginners with comfort in mind.
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
Amazon Basics Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Gym Floor Mat with Carrying Strap, Cyan, 74 x 24 x .5 Inches
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Extra thick, cushy floor mat in cyan for yoga, gym, and everyday exercise
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1/2 inch thickness offers comfortable padded support and shock absorption; textured surface provides extra traction
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Durable foam construction offers stretchability and springs back into shape
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Elastic strap for secure rolled-up mat storage and easy over-the-shoulder carrying
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Wipes clean easily
4
Rating is 4.7 out of 5
BalanceFrom All Purpose 1/2-Inch Extra Thick High Density Anti-Tear Exercise Yoga Mat and Knee Pad with Carrying Strap, Black
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BalanceFrom All Purpose 1/2-Inch Extra Thick High Density Anti-Tear Exercise Yoga Mat and Knee Pad with Carrying Strap, Black
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
BalanceFrom All Purpose 1/2-Inch Extra Thick High Density Anti-Tear Exercise Yoga Mat with Carrying Strap, Pink
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69" long 23" wide ensures comfort for people of all shapes and sizes. With high density foam material, the 1/2'' thick premium mat comfortably cushions spine, hips, knees and elbows on hard floors
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With double sided non-slip surfaces, BalanceFrom all-purpose premium exercise yoga mat comes with an excellent slip resistant advantage to prevent injuries
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Exceptional resilience allow you to keep your balance during any exercise style. Moisture resistant technology makes the mat to be easily washed with soap and water
6
Rating is 4.5 out of 5
Gaiam Yoga Mat Classic Print Non Slip Exercise & Fitness Mat for All Types of Yoga, Pilates & Floor Workouts, Pink Marrakesh, 4mm, 68"L x 24"W x 4mm Thick
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LIGHTWEIGHT YOGA MAT: These durable, yet extremely lightweight exercise yoga mats give you just the right amount of cushioning your joints need during any yoga or fitness routine
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STICKY NON-SLIP TEXTURE: Yoga mat features a textured sticky non-slip surface for excellent traction and superior grip and a stylish design to keep you motivated and focused
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NON-TOXIC and 6P FREE - PVC yoga mat is a healthier choice for you and the planet and free of DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP and DNOP (Note: For best results unroll and air out your mat for 2-3 days before use - a harmless odor may be present when unwrapped)
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
Gaiam Essentials Premium Yoga Mat with Carrier Sling, Navy, 72"L x 24"W x 1/4 Inch Thick
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CLASSIC YOGA MAT: These durable, yet lightweight exercise yoga mats are extra-thick (1/4 Inch) for the additional cushioning your joints need during any yoga or fitness routine
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STICKY NON-SLIP TEXTURE: Yoga mat is featured in classic colors with a textured non slip surface for excellent traction and superior grip in all types of yoga, even heated practices and hot yoga
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NON-TOXIC & 6P FREE - PVC yoga mat is a healthier choice for you and the planet and free of DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP and DNOP (For best results unroll and air out your mat for 2-3 days before use)
8
Rating is 4.3 out of 5
Gaiam Yoga Mat Premium Print Reversible Extra Thick Non Slip Exercise & Fitness Mat for All Types of Yoga, Pilates & Floor Workouts, Mystic Sky, 6mm
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LIGHTWEIGHT & THICK YOGA MAT: These durable, yet lightweight exercise yoga mats are extra thick for the additional cushioning your joints need during any yoga or fitness routine
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REVERSIBLE: Yoga mat features a reversible design textured sticky non-slip surface for excellent traction and superior grip two design options to suit any mood will help to keep you motivated and focused
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NON TOXIC & 6P FREE PVC yoga mat is a healthier choice for you and the planet and free of DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP and DNOP (Note: For best results unroll and air out your mat for 2 3 days before use a harmless odor may be present when unwrapped)
9
Rating is 4.2 out of 5
Sunny Health and Fitness Yoga Mat (Blue), Model:31
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DURABLE TEAR-RESISTANT MAT: The tear-resistant mat will remain in-tact during more challenging or vigorous workout sessions.
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TEXTURED SURFACE: The resilient PVC material can withstand moderate to intense workouts. PVC Yoga mats with texture will grip to your floors easily without damaging them. The firm grip will keep the yoga mat from slipping.
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HIGH DENSITY FOAM: The high density padded mat will protect knees, elbows and feet from hard floors while protecting the floor underneath you.
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TEXTURED SURFACE: Our unique combination of cell material provides the perfect non-slip exercise mat. Workout mat provides greater stability so you can flow between poses safely and easily.
10
Rating is 4.1 out of 5
Gaiam Yoga Mat Premium Print Non Slip Exercise & Fitness Mat for All Types of Yoga, Pilates & Floor Workouts, Violet Blush Point, 5mm (05-64034)
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LIGHTWEIGHT & THICK YOGA MAT: These durable, yet lightweight exercise yoga mats provide additional cushioning your joints need during any yoga or fitness routine
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STICKY NON-SLIP TEXTURE: Yoga mat features a textured sticky non-slip surface for excellent traction and superior grip and a stylish design to keep you motivated and focused
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NON TOXIC & 6P FREE PVC yoga mat is a healthier choice for you and the planet and free of DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP and DNOP (Note: For best results unroll and air out your mat for 2 3 days before use a harmless odor may be present when unwrapped)
How does the length of a yoga mat impact its durability and lifespan?
The length of a yoga mat does not typically have a direct impact on its durability and lifespan. The durability and lifespan of a yoga mat are more dependent on factors such as the quality of materials used, the thickness and density of the mat, the manufacturing process, and the care and maintenance practices followed by the user.
That being said, if a yoga mat is too short for your height and you constantly have to extend beyond its boundaries, it may experience more wear and tear at the edges, which could potentially affect its lifespan. Additionally, if you frequently use a yoga mat that is not suitable for your body size, it may cause discomfort and affect the mat's performance over time.
Overall, it is important to choose a mat that suits your body size and needs to ensure optimal durability and lifespan, rather than the length being the sole determinant of these factors.
Should I consider my shoulder width when choosing a yoga mat length?
When choosing a yoga mat length, it is essential to consider your shoulder width. Generally, the ideal yoga mat length should be at least six inches longer than your height. However, if you have broader shoulders, you may want to consider a slightly wider mat to accommodate your shoulder width comfortably. This will ensure that you have enough space to move and perform various poses without feeling restricted or falling off the mat. Additionally, a wider mat can provide greater stability and support during your yoga practice. Ultimately, it is best to try out different mat sizes and consider your individual preferences and comfort level to find the right fit for you.
How long should a yoga mat be for a beginner?
A standard yoga mat is usually around 68-72 inches long, which should be sufficient for most beginners. However, taller individuals (over 6 feet) may prefer a longer mat, around 72-78 inches, to ensure full coverage and comfortable practice. It's important to choose a mat length that allows your entire body to fit on it, providing enough room for various poses and movements without feeling restricted.
