Master your asanas with the best yoga mats: Here is how to choose the right one that has your back
Malaika Arora's perfect splits or Shilpa Shetty's seated spinal twists, we all have witnessed how these B-town beauties integrate yoga into their lives. It is an ancient practice that involves physical postures, control of breath, and meditation to ensure mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. But ever thought what makes their yoga workout look so simple? A lot has to do with the proper equipment, particularly a yoga mat. But how do you determine which mat is ideal for you? Whether you are a beginner attempting to master your poses or an experienced yogi seeking the ideal support, selecting the ideal yoga mat is crucial. So, don't settle for the first mat you come across. Let's break down all you need to know to make an informed decision and take your yoga practice to the next level. Celebrity fitness coach, Yash Agarwal, shares his inputs, helping you choose the best yoga mats for your style.
Yoga is a practice that transcends physical postures. It is about discipline aimed at attaining a balance between the body, mind and soul. Yoga combines physical stretches, conscious breathing and meditation, providing a haven for inner calm and self-knowledge. From the serene, meditative exercises of Hatha yoga to the more dynamic flow of Vinyasa, yoga has a range of styles to suit different requirements. The elegance of yoga is that it can be modified to suit anyone and to promote a balance between strength and flexibility. It can treat a number of conditions, such as knee osteoarthritis, chronic illness, anxiety and others (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services).
Opt for the best yoga mat from these options:
Yoga is not a gym session, it is a way of life and just like each individual is different, so are the yoga styles. Hatha yoga is slower, more measured movements, so it is ideal for beginners or for people looking for relaxation and tranquillity. If you want a little more energy, go for Vinyasa yoga as it synchronises movement with breathing. Power yoga is the one for you if you want to sweat it out. After all, it is an intense, strength-building yoga. On the other hand, Yin yoga is about holding poses for longer periods to enable deep stretching and inner calm. In contrast, Hot yoga takes it to the next level by practicing in a hot room, testing flexibility and endurance. So, before selecting the best yoga mat in India, ensure that you discover and know your style.
While choosing quality yoga mats, you should look at what they are made of because this affects your stability, comfort, and even your environmental footprint.
1. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): It has a great grip and is known to be strong. PVC is sticky, firm, and gives excellent traction. "It is durable but not eco-friendly," says celebrity fitness coach, Yash Agarwal.
2. TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer): TPE yoga mats are a more environmentally friendly option as they are recyclable and light in weight. They possess decent elasticity and traction, but may not be as durable in the long term.
3. Natural rubber: With its better traction and support, natural rubber yoga mats are stable for poses. "They are an environmentally friendly option," says the expert.
4. Cork: If you practice hot yoga, cork mats can be a good option. They are antimicrobial, which gives you a clean and fresh surface to practice on.
5. Jute: For a more natural, earthy look, jute yoga mats are an environmentally friendly choice. They are lighter and breathable, but they lack as much cushioning.
6. Cotton or Hemp: Great for use as a mat cover or yoga rug, cotton yoga mats have wonderful absorption, ideal for meditation or gentle yoga work.
ALSO READ: Best treadmills for home under ₹20,000 for low-impact and joint-friendly workouts
A few more options for you:
Thickness affects comfort and balance a lot. Thickness relies on the needs of your body and the style of yoga you practice:
ALSO READ: Engage in strength training at home with the best 20kg dumbbell set of 2025
Grip is what holds you down. Whether you are in Downward Dog or Warrior II, slipping can disrupt your flow or even cause injury. "A good mat should offer strong traction on both the top (hands/feet) and bottom (floor) to prevent slipping," says the expert. That is where texture comes in.
1. Smooth PVC yoga mats tend to rely on surface stickiness to avoid slips. They work well when dry, but can become slippery with sweat.
2. Textured surfaces, such as natural rubber or jute, provide the feel of grip and add traction even during sweaty practices.
3. Cork yoga mats are a go-to for hot yoga practice. This type of yoga mat is moisture-absorbing, making it tackier and allowing you to hold poses with authority as the temperature increases.
Cork yoga mat: Top options for you
Standard yoga mats measure 68 inches in length and 24 inches in width, but that is not necessarily a one-size-fits-all affair. If you are over 5'10", look at mats that range from 72-74 inches so your entire body can fit in poses such as Savasana or full-body stretches. Also, if you like a little more room to move and stretch out, use wider mats (26-30 inches) since they provide additional space and can be more comfortable, particularly for restorative or floor-based practices. But remember that bigger mats can be heavier to carry or store.
In case you are continually on the go, going to the studio, travelling, or practicing out in the open, the portability element must be considered. Travel yoga mats (1-2mm) are foldable and super light and easily fold into bags, making them ideal for carrying around. Standard mats (3-5mm) are a good compromise between comfort and portability, while heavy yoga mats (6-8mm) are the most comfortable but should stay at home because they are so bulky. The best yoga mats have straps or carry bags attached, which are useful.
TPE yoga mat: A few options for you
The duration for which your yoga mat lasts is determined by usage and care. "Look for tear-resistant and sweat-resistant materials, especially if you practice daily or do vigorous styles like Power Yoga," adds Yash Agrawal. PVC and TPE mats are very durable and low maintenance, making them ideal for regular practice. Natural alternatives such as cork, jute, or rubber will wear out more quickly with heavy use, but they are environmentally friendly and biodegradable. Always read care instructions prior to purchasing to extend its shelf life but maintain your practice clean and new.
The best yoga mats do more than offer cushioning; they correct posture, don't slip, and create individual space for intentional practice. "An excellent mat enhances stability in postures, thereby making your sessions safer and more efficient. It also with mental anchoring as laying out your mat becomes a ritual, mentally preparing you for practice," adds the expert. It also brings extra comfort in long sessions and stimulates regularity. Over time, having a specialty mat brings an element of ritual and discipline to your routine, which are indispensable for any thriving fitness routine.
ALSO READ: Beginners' guide to whey protein concentrate: Top-rated picks, expert tips and FAQs
"Many cheap mats contain PVC, phthalates, or heavy metals, which can release harmful chemicals over time. Non-toxic materials like TPE, natural rubber, and cork are safer for skin contact and reduce the risk of allergic reactions," says the expert. Natural rubber, jute, or TPE green yoga mats are better for you and the earth. For those who spend hours on their mat per week, such a change can make a big difference in minimising toxic load and overall supporting wellbeing.
The suitable yoga mat depends on your practice style. The experts suggest a few tips:
Add the best cotton yoga mats to your home gym space. Here are a few options for you:
Ace your fitness game with whey protein isolate: Top 10 picks from MuscleBlaze, Nakpro and other brands
Unflavoured whey protein: 10 top-rated options for pure and effective nutrition in 2025
Walk your way to better health with the best treadmills for home: 10 picks under ₹15,000 to try in 2025
Yoga mats are thinner and offer more grip; exercise mats are thicker for cushioning during workouts.
Yes, non-slip mats prevent injuries by improving grip and stability, especially during sweaty or dynamic yoga sessions.
Yes, but travel mats are thinner; beginners may prefer thicker mats for better comfort and joint support.
Yes, gently hand wash with mild soap and water, then air dry completely before rolling it up.
Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
News18
15 hours ago
- News18
Malaika Arora Opens Up About Her Daily Health Secrets
Last Updated: Malaika Arora shares how intermittent fasting, water therapy, and mindful eating help her maintain balance and wellness. On the June 2 episode of 32 Degrees, Malaika Arora opened up about her approach to fitness and wellness, emphasizing balance and moderation over strict diets. The former VJ and reality show judge revealed how she incorporates intermittent fasting into her routine to maintain both her physical and mental health. When asked about her daily wellness rituals, Malaika said, 'So there are a few you know small things. I think one of the things is sleep, it is so underrated. That's something that I swear by. I think it's very, very important. Water therapy is another thing which is something so important. I do have that in Scarlett House (her Mumbai restaurant). We have an entire hydration bar, which is something I do personally every single day. That is something which is very important. Meditation, yoga, eating right… yoga is nothing, it is just breathing." She also explained how intermittent fasting plays a key role in her diet. 'I do intermittent fasting. I actually begin my day with something which is so basic, which is so Indian… it is ghee, which is part of Ayurveda. I start my day with ghee… it (intermittent fasting) is not about dieting. There's a big difference between dieting and fasting. I eat, but I eat in that limited time of the day. Another thing which I swear by is I don't eat after sunset. So my last meal is 7 pm. Then I stop. I don't eat. I try not to eat anything after that until next day. So I wake up I wake up early, but I don't eat anything. I probably just break it (her fast) with with ghee. So, 12 (noon) is when I actually have my first meal. My proper heavy meal, when I actually I eat; and then I eat everything. Whether it's rice, roti, sabzi, I eat everything." Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that focuses on when you eat rather than what you eat. It typically involves limiting food consumption to a certain window of time—often eight hours—while fasting for the remaining hours of the day.
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Food & water under threat from microplastics in fields, rivers across Telangana, Andhra Pradesh
Hyderabad: Microplastics are emerging as a silent threat in landfills in Hyderabad, Godavari river and agricultural land across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Recent scientific research has identified alarming levels of microplastics in Godavari and associated water bodies in Telangana and AP. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Management in 2025 examined surface water and water treatment plants in West Godavari. It found 330 microplastics (MPs) particles in river surface water from 15 samples and 121 MPs in six samples in water treatment plant. These MPs, primarily composed of blue and transparent fibres smaller than 500 micrometres (µm), were traced to commonly used plastic polymers, including polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate, nylon, and polyethene terephthalate (PET). Larger MPs exceeding 3,000 µm were observed in treated water. Risk indices used in the study, including the Pollution Load Index and Ecological Risk Index, suggested that the type of polymer, rather than quantity, posed significant environmental risks. Researchers said India generates 9.3 million tonnes of plastic annually, accounting for over 20% of global plastic pollution due to poor waste management. They suggested the need for improved control around urban run-off and water treatment protocols to address its menace in rivers. Soil Contamination Through Irrigation And Landfills The ecological threat is not limited to rivers. Another review titled 'Microplastic Contamination in Agricultural Soils Across India: A Systematic Review of Studies and Research Gaps' analysed data from 73 studies conducted between 2020 and 2024. It revealed significant risks of microplastic infiltration into soil across India, particularly in Telangana and AP. In Hyderabad, fields near Jawahar Nagar landfill are at risk due to leachate infiltration into underground water. These pollutants can enter irrigation networks and eventually accumulate in fields. This finding is supported by a separate 2023 study titled 'Preliminary Evidence of Microplastics in Landfill Leachate, Hyderabad, India' (Process Safety and Environmental Protection journal). The use of polluted water for irrigation, plastic mulch in farming, and improper waste management are major contributors to soil microplastic contamination. In AP, land irrigated with water from Godavari, which is already confirmed to contain MPs, face similar risks. Northern coastal regions are especially vulnerable due to atmospheric deposition and run-off from contaminated beach sediments. Gaps In Southern India's Research On Plasticulture And Wastewater Irrigation While plastic-based farming such as mulching and drip irrigation are widespread in Telangana and AP, their contribution to soil microplastic level is poorly studied. Additionally, peri-urban agriculture in cities such as Hyderabad often uses treated and untreated municipal wastewater, yet few studies assessed the MP levels. Moreover, there is no clear understanding of how microplastics interact with specific soil types found in the region. There are also no studies assessing microplastic uptake in major southern crops such as rice, pulses and millets, raising worries about food safety and long-term soil health. The existing evidence highlights an urgent need for policy intervention, localised scientific research and enhanced waste and water management to curb the spread of microplastics.
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Kareena Kapoor and Malaika Arora follow one diet rule. Experts back it for their skin glow and perfect figure
Malaika's Wellness Mantra: Fasting and Food Timing Not a Diet, But a System Reset Life After Sunset: The Power of Saying No to Late Meals Kareena's Early Routine: Lights Out Before 10 PM Science Backs It Up: Why Early Dinners Matter Conclusion: A Lifestyle, Not a Fad In the glitzy world of Bollywood, maintaining a healthy and fit body is not just a personal goal but a professional requirement. Many celebrities have discovered that timing their meals is just as crucial as what they eat. Akshay Kumar and Kareena Kapoor, known for their impressive fitness levels, have long advocated the benefits of eating dinner before sunset. Recently, Malaika Arora joined this growing list of stars embracing time-restricted eating and has become a vocal proponent of early dinners and intermittent fasting At 49, Malaika Arora credits much of her well-being to her disciplined eating pattern. She has revealed that she doesn't consume any food after 7 PM and follows an intermittent fasting regimen of 17 hours on alternate her seven-hour eating window, she doesn't impose any food restrictions and enjoys a wide range of dishes. Her approach is not about deprivation but about control—she focuses on eating the right portions rather than measuring everything or cutting out entire food groups. While her son meticulously weighs his meals, Malaika prefers a simpler method: eating from a standard-sized bowl that limits her portions without requiring obsessive emphasizes that her intermittent fasting is not about dieting in the traditional sense. For her, it serves as a complete reset mechanism—helping her sleep more soundly, wake up feeling refreshed, and avoid she practiced it daily, but eventually switched to an alternate-day routine to keep things balanced. She highlights the clear distinction between dieting and fasting—unlike diets that focus on restriction, fasting, for her, is more about aligning with the body's internal clock and letting it rejuvenate of Malaika's core rules is to avoid eating anything after the sun goes down. Her final meal is always by 7 PM, and after that, she refrains from food until the next afternoon. She typically breaks her fast around noon with something light like clarified butter and then enjoys a hearty meal consisting of rice, vegetables, and traditional Indian fare. With 50 on the horizon, she is also becoming more mindful of age-related changes and acknowledges that the body's needs evolve over time, demanding extra care and Kapoor, another fitness icon in the industry, recently opened up about her shift to an early schedule. She now finishes dinner by 6 PM and is in bed by 9:30 PM. Her friends and social circle have come to understand and respect her boundaries, knowing she rarely attends late-night parties. This lifestyle adjustment has contributed significantly to her physical and mental supports these lifestyle choices. According to a report from Healthline, eating late at night can lead to weight gain and elevated blood sugar levels—even if the meals are nutritionally identical to those consumed earlier. Dr. Jonathan C. Jun, a medicine professor at Johns Hopkins University, explained that our metabolism is influenced by the body's circadian rhythm. When meals are consumed outside the natural biological cycle, the body processes glucose less show that those who eat dinner late experience nearly 20% higher peak blood sugar levels and burn 10% less fat compared to those who eat earlier. These findings explain why early dinners are not just a trend but a scientifically backed strategy for long-term wellness routines of celebrities like Malaika Arora and Kareena Kapoor underscore a larger shift toward mindful living. Their focus is not on fleeting trends or harsh diets but on sustainable habits—early meals, disciplined routines, and listening to the body's natural signals. As science continues to validate these choices, it becomes clear that eating early is more than just a celebrity quirk—it's a smart step toward better health.
