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Forbes
29-07-2025
- Health
- Forbes
The 7 Best Yoga Mats, Based On Months Of Testing And Expert Insights
Yoga has long been touted for its ability to build strength, increase flexibility and promote mental well-being, all in the form of low-impact movements. It also requires very little equipment—in most cases, just a yoga mat will do. But after months of testing 10 of the best yoga mats, I chose Lululemon The Mat 5mm as the best overall for everyday use, and the Amazon Basics Mat for its sheer value. Several additional mats also caught my eye if you're looking for a model that is specifically for hot yoga, is travel friendly or will elicit constant compliments for its unique design. I tested 10 popular yoga mats to determine which mats best supported my body through a range of ... More movements. Photo: Kim Peiffer for Forbes The following is a list of all the winners from my testing process: Our Top Recommendations Best Yoga Mat Overall: Lululemon The Mat 5mm Best Value Yoga Mat: Amazon Basics Mat Best Yoga Mat For Travel: Jade Yoga Voyager Mat Best Yoga Mat For Hot Yoga: Yoga Hustle The Mat Best Yoga Mat For Beginners: Liforme Classic Yoga Mat Most Comfortable Yoga Mat: Manduka Pro Yoga Mat Most Stylish Yoga Mat: Bala The Wavy Mat To gain insights into each mat's overall performance, I tested 10 popular yoga mats over the course of six months (some I've been testing even longer than that) to determine which mats best supported my body through a range of movements, which ones are durable to withstand daily sweat sessions and which mats are easiest to clean and store. While there are myriad options, I'm here to help you identify the best yoga mats that cater to any scenario. Dimensions: 71 x 26 inches | Thickness: 5mm | Weight: 5.24 pounds | Material: Natural rubber and latex Best for: Yogis who practice often Those with sensitive joints that require a bit more cushioning Skip if: You want a lightweight mat that's easy to carry around You have a rubber or latex allergy I deemed Lululemon's popular The Mat 5mm the best yoga mat overall because of its versatility. It has proper grip both on the top layer and underneath that's helpful in guiding both newbies and seasoned yogis through their practice without you or your mat slipping around, even if you sweat a lot. And at 5mm thick, it's cushioned enough to take the pressure off your knees and ankles, and it can absorb some of the shock that comes with jumping. It's also sturdy enough that your shoulder blades and tailbone don't feel the floor when performing crunches or back-centric exercises (one of my biggest gripes with other mats I have used in the past). The Mat 5mm is a bit longer than the traditional 68-inch mats sold by many yoga brands. It also weighs more than five pounds, which places it on the heavier side, and for that reason, I'd recommend using carrying straps or a bag to make transport a bit easier. On the other hand, that weight does help the mat to lie perfectly flat after being unfurled. Lululemon's The Mat 5mm is my top choice for the best yoga mat overall. Photo: Kim Peiffer for Forbes The Lululemon mat is made with natural rubber that's Forest Stewardship Council–certified, which basically means the product meets the gold standard for responsibly sourcing its materials. It comes in four colors, including a solid black option and three tie-dye options for added style. It's also reversible, so you can flip as needed between the smooth, grippy side and the cushioned, natural rubber side, depending on the type of class you're taking. From a care standpoint, the top of the mat is a breeze to clean—just wipe it down with a natural cleanser and wait for it to dry before rolling it up. The bottom of the mat poses more of a cleaning challenge, however, because the material's grippy quality means it's likely to hang onto dirt and hair. If you have pets that shed, this may prove to be a bigger problem over time that, if left untreated, could degrade the mat's ability to adhere to the floor. Another drawback is the smell: When the mat first comes out of the packaging, it has a strong rubber odor that takes some time to dissipate (although it's worth noting most of the other mats I tested had this same exact problem). Overall though, this is my go-to yoga mat that I reach for on a regular basis. I've been using it several times a week for seven months, and it's shown very few signs of wear. Plus, it performs great in a variety of classes, and because I switch things up often, I love that I can count on it to perform just as well in a heated sculpt class as in a traditional Vinyasa class. Dimensions: 73.2 x 24.3 inches | Thickness: 12.7mm | Weight: 2.4 pounds | Material: NBR foam Best for: Beginners Yogis with joint pain who want ample cushioning Those attempting new, challenging positions in which a tumble is more likely Skip if: You don't want to replace your mat on a yearly basis You take hot yoga or yoga sculpt classes that require a more grippy mat Yoga mats can be a pricey investments these days, with many brands charging well over $100 for a mat. But at around $20, this mat from Amazon is surprisingly nice. It was by far the cheapest mat I've tested in my decades of practicing yoga, but so far I'm impressed by how well it's held up. At a half-inch thick, it's more comfortable than many of the other mats I tested: It makes you feel very buoyant, almost like you're practicing on a pool float. For that reason alone, this mat is a great choice for those attempting more challenging positions, like headstand variations or crow pose, who might want a little more cushioning in the event of a fall. It's also great for anyone with joint pain or injuries, as it is literally the thickest mat I've ever come across. However, I'd be very wary of recommending this to anyone who does more modern yoga classes, such as yoga sculpt, power yoga or any heated classes: I tried this mat in all of the aforementioned classes, and it does not provide a lot of grip if you're moving around too much, and it definitely doesn't perform great in a heated environment where sweat abounds. Because the peaks and valleys of the mat's grooves are set fairly wide apart, it's easy to clean after class. The mat is made from nitrile butadiene rubber (and comes in blue, black or pink), a type of synthetic rubber popular in yoga mats for its softness and cushioning. The material is supposed to resist wear, but you might notice temporary imprints over time. Because of its cushy thickness, the mat is not that easy to store. It's a bit bulky to throw into the trunk of a car and, more importantly, if it's stored rolled up, it doesn't easily flatten out once you unroll it, which I found to be the case even after months of testing. It's definitely not a mat that will stand up to years of frequent use (I've already started noticing the rubber peeling off, and there are permanent imprints in the mat where my hands and feet land in downward dog), but at just over $20, it's a fair option for an infrequent user or for someone who wants to see if they like yoga before committing to a more expensive mat. Dimensions: 68 x 24 inches | Thickness: 1.5mm | Weight: 1.5 pounds | Material: Natural rubber Best for: Frequent travelers who want to take their yoga practice on the road Those who have to carry their mat to and from class Skip if: You require more cushioning You have rubber allergies For those who want to take their practice on the road (or in a suitcase), the Jade Yoga Voyager Mat is the best option for a yogi on the go. This mat measures 68 by 24 inches (the average size for yoga mats), but its extra-thin 1.5mm thickness makes it easy to pack into a backpack or weekend bag. In fact, it can fold many times over like a sheet of paper, and once fully folded away, it's about the size of a yoga block (I've snuck one into my carry-on many times, and it barely takes up any space). Overall, the mat features pretty impressive grip considering how thin it is. I used it in many heated yoga classes, and by no means did I feel like I was sliding all over the place. The mat comes in five colors, including midnight blue, olive green, jade green, purple and black, and for each mat sold, Jade plants a tree. Obviously, this doesn't affect the mat's abilities when the time comes to break into practice, but it might make you feel a little better about your purchase from an ethical standpoint. The Voyager mat does have some drawbacks, although I wouldn't consider them dealbreakers if you prioritize portability. For one, it's not the easiest to clean, given its grippy texture—cleaning cloths tend to leave fabric fibers behind on the mat's surface. It also takes a while for the mat to lie completely flat, which can be annoying. It does, however, dry very quickly, and at less than 2 pounds, it's suitable for yogis on the go who don't need a lot of cushion and don't want to lug a heavy mat all over town if they need to run errands before or after class. For die-hard yogis who can't skip a day (even on vacation), it's a solid choice. Dimensions: 73 x 27 inches | Thickness: 4.5mm | Weight: N/A | Materials: Natural rubber, polyurethane, antimicrobial polyester Best for: People who want a mat made of natural materials Those who want a fun, attractive mat Those who prefer heated classes Skip if: You don't like visible sweat marks You have rubber allergies Yoga Hustle's The Mat was close to winning as my overall pick, and quite frankly, if I could choose two winners for that category, it would have made the cut. This mat is attractive and functional, and wears well in a variety of settings. Ultimately, the two things that gave Lululemon's The Mat 5mm the winning edge were its slightly lower price and its unique reversible feature that made it easy to suit a variety of classes. From a visual standpoint, Yoga Hustle's The Mat is arguably one of the most attractive of the ones I tested (besides Bala's The Wavy Mat—more on that below): It's a truly beautiful option with a lovely pattern and a variety of colors. At 4.5mm, it has some thickness to it, so you won't feel contact points against the floor, even after consistent use. And considering it's 73 inches long by 27 inches wide, it's a touch longer and wider than the average yoga mat, making it nice for taller users or those who just want a little more real estate (essential in a packed class, in my opinion). It's also quite innovative compared to its competitors. For one, the texture is impressively grippy on both the top and bottom of the mat, so neither you nor the mat will slide around during use (crucial for a sweaty yoga sculpt class). And there's an antimicrobial membrane in the core of the mat, which helps prevent any buildup of mold or bacteria and helps to keep it from smelling after those aforementioned sweaty classes. Added bonus: It's made with responsibly sourced, 100% recycled materials (including 80% natural rubber, 18% polyurethane and 2% antimicrobial polyester), which means that when you eventually throw it away years down the line, it'll biodegrade easily, a bonus for yogis concerned about environmental impact. Dimensions: 73 x 27 inches | Thickness: 4.2mm | Weight: 5.5 pounds | Materials: Natural rubber, eco-polyurethane Best for: People who want a mat that can adapt to different fitness levels and practices A mat that can help with alignment Skip if: You're looking for a lightweight, portable mat You're on a budget For a reliable yoga mat that's great for all levels, but especially for beginners learning proper postural alignment, the Liforme Classic Yoga Mat is a solid choice. First of all, it has medium heft, so those working on refining certain poses probably won't be bothered by a lot of joint, hip or knee pain that comes with some of the thinner mats on the market. However, it is worth noting that this is not the thickest of mats, so if that's important to you, I would probably skip it and opt for one that's at least 5mm thick. Second, the unique AlignForMe posture alignment design features markers etched into the mat that help guide yogis (whether a newbie to yoga or a recurring practitioner) into proper alignment to improve form, posture and body awareness with each and every move, making this mat especially great for someone learning foundational poses. The Liforme Classic Yoga Mat is a great choice for beginners and experts alike. Photo: Kim Peiffer for Forbes It's also a touch longer and wider than most mats, giving newbies a little more space to experiment with moves. Added bonus for beginners (and for those carrying their mat around town): It comes with a handy carrying case, so you can pop your mat into a zippered compartment after class and throw it over your shoulder like a cross-body bag. It's also very easy to clean. Finally, it's made from sustainably sourced natural rubber and PVC-free materials, making it a great planet-friendly choice. Dimensions: 71 x 26 inches | Thickness: 6mm | Weight: 7.5 pounds | Materials: Oeko-Tex Standard 100 PVC Best for: People who want a mat made of natural materials Those looking for a thicker, comfortable mat that still has grip Skip if: You want a lightweight mat You're on a budget It's not easy to find a yoga mat that doesn't kill your joints but still keeps you grounded during challenging poses, but the Manduka Pro Yoga Mat is the best of both worlds. At 6mm thick, it's one of the densest yoga mats you can find, but it still manages to be grippy and reliable. I'm constantly annoyed by mats that aren't thick enough and cause pain in my hips, knees and tailbone when doing lunges, crunches and other moves, but this mat keeps me pain-free through most poses, which is why I'm naming it the most comfortable among those I tested. I also find the no-slip dot pattern on the bottom layer and the closed-cell construction on the top layer to be great for keeping me from sliding around on the mat, yet despite its nubby pattern, it remains easy to clean. It is worth noting, however, that I don't love this mat in heated classes; I find that it becomes slippery in humid environments, so this is best suited for a non-heated class. The Manduka PRO Yoga Mat 6mm is thick yet sturdy—perfect for those looking for a comfortable but ... More reliable yoga mat. Photo: Kim Peiffer for Forbes This mat does have one drawback in particular worth mentioning, in addition to its lack of stability in hot classes, and that is the weight. At 7.5 pounds, it's heavy and therefore a challenge to carry around, even just from my car to the front door of the yoga studio. When I'm walking to and from class in New York City, I leave this mat at home and opt for something much lighter. However, for those looking for comfort and stability, it's a great choice and comes with a lifetime guarantee. Dimensions: 71 x 26 inches | Thickness: 5mm | Weight: N/A | Materials: Natural rubber, polyurethane topcoat Best for: Yogis looking for a unique design that stands out Those looking for a stable, grippy mat that excels in heated classes Skip if: You're worried about visible sweat marks You're on a budget I've practiced with a lot of yoga mats over the years, but I've never had a mat that drew as much attention—or elicited as many compliments—as Bala's The Wavy Mat. The unique wave shape may be the only of its kind, but the forward-thinking design doesn't mean function is compromised. Like the brand's popular Play Mat, The Wavy Mat is moisture-wicking and nonslip, making it a reliable choice for everything from traditional yoga to heated Pilates classes, cardio classes and more. The heft is good (not great) at 5mm—some moves still have me feeling my joints, but most were doable. But it's so fun and functional that the thickness doesn't prevent me from grabbing it for sculpt classes time and time again. Bala's The Wavy Mat is the perfect blend of fashion and function. Bala One thing worth noting that I don't love is that it shows sweat marks very easily, and it takes an excessive amount of time to dry after I wipe it down; however, I have the Sand color, so that may not be an issue with the other colorways (this mat comes in four colors: charcoal, sand, sea and blush). It also seems to stain easily: I left my mat in a car next to a black yoga mat on a hot day, and it absorbed some dye from the black mat—not ideal. Overall, I find The Wavy Mat to be adorable—the perfect marriage of form and function—and if I'm being honest, I am tempted to buy this mat in every single color they have. Other Yoga Mats I Tested I tested a total of 10 different yoga mats from brands large and small. These are mats I tested that didn't make the final cut. Gaiam Yoga Mat ($70): The Gaiam Yoga Mat is very cushiony and has a fun design. However, when you unroll it, a curl persists at both ends, and the mat doesn't unfurl very quickly. It's also really bulky and not the easiest to store. Lululemon The Foldable Mat 6.5 mm ($118): Lululemon's Foldable Mat features a unique folding design that allows you to stack the mat for enhanced joint support in kneeling poses and add extra height in supportive poses. I think this is very innovative, but ultimately the folded design just wasn't for me. It is very easy to store, though—ideal for someone with limited space. Alo Warrior Mat ($148): I love this mat and do recommend it; it's very similar to the Lululemon The Mat 5mm, but I ultimately chose the Lululemon mat as the best overall because it was less expensive for similar quality, and slightly lighter in weight. My fiancé loves this mat—it's become his go-to option when I drag him to sweaty heated yoga classes with me. The grip is great as well. How I Tested The Best Yoga Mats With no shortage of yoga mats to choose from, I culled an extensive list of yoga mats based on personal experience, recommendations from experts and the best-selling products from major yoga brands. I exercised on the mats in a variety of conditions during different workouts, from traditional (and less intensive) yoga to high-intensity cardio sessions and heated yoga sculpt sessions. I also completed yoga practices on different surfaces, like my concrete driveway, the hardwood floor in my living room and dozens of different yoga studios, each with very different floor surfaces. After each session, I cleaned each mat thoroughly with a gentle wipe and rolled and stored them in my car or in my closet, noting which dried quickly and stored easily. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned yogi like me, you're going to want a mat that is comfortable, portable and designed to withstand extended periods of use (after all, nobody wants to have to replace their gear every few months). With these expectations in mind, I evaluated each yoga mat according to the following criteria: Support I tested whether or not the mats supported my body during various exercises, noting when my back, shoulders, knees or tailbone could feel the floor beneath the mat. I also assessed whether the mat became dented or misshapen after a workout to better understand how it would retain its shape and long-term support. Texture I performed well over 200 60-minute yoga flows that incorporated exercises with varying contact points (elbows, knees, hands, feet, shoulder blades and so on) and rated how the texture felt, ranging from extremely uncomfortable to comfortable. Grip I completed workouts on each mat that involved a lot of plyometrics (burpees, mountain climbers, jumping jacks and so on) to evaluate how well the mat stayed in place and whether my hands or feet slipped on its surface, especially after working up a sweat, and in a heated studio. (I prefer a heated yoga sculpt class, so the majority of my testing was done in these types of more intense classes.) Portability I tested how easy it was to roll up each mat before positioning it in a travel strap. I also considered how long it took for each mat to lie flat and return to its original shape after being rolled up for 24 hours. I rolled up and stored the mats to test for portability over time. Photo: Kim Peiffer for Forbes Cleanliness I am a self-proclaimed germaphobe and prefer to wipe down my yoga mat after every single practice, but different textures and materials can make it difficult to clean a mat effectively. After each practice, I attempted to clean each mat with a simple wipe and noted how easy (or hard) it was to wipe down, and whether the wipe had any adverse effects on the materials. Size And Aesthetics When selecting the winners, I also considered each mat's size and aesthetic. When looking at the size, I considered how the mats are intended to be used and whether or not the options ran big or small. And while aesthetics typically don't influence the functionality of a yoga mat, they can influence whether or not you use your mat in the first place (plus, it adds an element of joy to your practice—trust me). How To Pick A Yoga Mat In order to properly choose the best yoga mat, I tapped Fiona Devaney, longtime yoga teacher and founder of yoga activewear brand MAÄT, for her expertise. Thickness Yoga mats come in essentially four different thicknesses, measured in millimeters: ultra-thin (1mm to 2mm), average (4mm to 5mm), thick (6mm) and extra-thick (more than 6mm). Each style comes with pros and cons, but here's what you should know. Ultra-Thin: These mats are well-suited for travel, as they can be folded away. However, they don't provide much cushioning, which can pose an issue for those with sensitive joints. These mats are well-suited for travel, as they can be folded away. However, they don't provide much cushioning, which can pose an issue for those with sensitive joints. Average: This is the most common mat style, designed to help practitioners feel grounded. But given how thin it is, some still prefer a mat that offers more cushion. This is the most common mat style, designed to help practitioners feel grounded. But given how thin it is, some still prefer a mat that offers more cushion. Thick: This style is thick enough that you won't feel the floor beneath you. These mats are great for those who need just a little extra padding, but they do tend to be on the heavier side and thus not very portable. This style is thick enough that you won't feel the floor beneath you. These mats are great for those who need just a little extra padding, but they do tend to be on the heavier side and thus not very portable. Extra-Thick: Soft and cushy, this thickness is ideal for those who need additional cushioning due to joint pain. You won't feel grounded, but you will feel comfortable. You may want to consider your skill level when determing which thickness is right for you. 'For a beginner to yoga, I would advise them to think about thickness and texture, the two key qualities,' Devaney says. 'When thinking about thickness, a thinner mat will feel more stable but won't provide cushioning for your knees and joints. A thicker, 'cushier' mat will feel comfortable on your knees but will be harder to balance on. Textured mats tend to have better grip, so definitely look for texture.' Generally speaking, thicker mats last longer than thinner mats. However, the quality of the material also determines a mat's longevity. Dimensions Yoga mats come in a range of sizes, so consider which size will best accommodate your body and practice style. If you're tall or like to move around a lot, you may need a larger mat. And if you're shorter or prefer to work through simple exercises, you can probably pick up a traditional mat. Materials When looking for a new yoga mat, it's important to consider what it's made of, as that will determine everything from price and durability to weight and grip. One of the most common materials used to make yoga mats is PVC, a plastic-based material. While PVC mats are fairly rugged, they're nonabsorbent (which can be a deal-breaker if you're someone who sweats a lot) and not environmentally friendly. Another option to consider is a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) mat, which is made with a blend of plastic and rubber polymers. These are usually greener than PVC mats (some can even be recycled) but need to be replaced more often. And then there are natural rubber mats, which are becoming increasingly popular for their grippy texture and natural origin—this is Devaney's preferred material. 'Natural rubber is preferred because it is eco-friendly, wears well, is long-lasting and has excellent grip,' she says. Price Generally speaking, more expensive yoga mats are made with higher-quality materials and are often more eco-friendly as well. It's a good idea to think of a yoga mat as an investment in your health. Using one that's comfortable will inspire you to use it more, which is better than saving a little money on a mat that's uncomfortable. A yoga mat with plenty of support and grip will also reduce the likelihood of injury, so you're investing in your long-term well-being when you splurge on a mat that meets your needs. My Expertise As Forbes Vetted's features and special projects director, I've been rigorously testing and reviewing products for two decades, from vitamin C serums to hotels across the globe to fitness equipment. Yoga is my therapy, and I have been practicing daily for more than 10 years. I take heated yoga flow and yoga sculpt classes five to seven times a week. In addition to my own expertise, I consulted an outside expert who has spent countless hours using yoga mats: Fiona Devaney, a longtime yoga teacher and the founder of MAÄT, a yoga activewear brand. Is Foam Or Rubber A Better Option For A Yoga Mat? The choice between foam or rubber for your yoga mat ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs. Both materials have their own benefits and drawbacks. Foam mats, such as those made from PVC or TPE, tend to be more lightweight and affordable than rubber mats. They also provide more cushioning and can be easier to clean. However, foam mats may not have as much grip as rubber mats, which can make it more difficult to hold certain poses. Foam mats also have a shorter lifespan and may need to be replaced more frequently. Rubber mats, on the other hand, are generally more durable and provide better grip, especially when your hands and feet are sweaty. 'Natural rubber and textured surfaces provide better grip, especially when a mat is slick with sweat,' Devaney says. Because rubber is a sustainable material, it's also more eco-friendly. However, rubber mats can be heavier and more expensive. Some people are allergic to natural rubber or find the smell unpleasant. How Much Of A Factor Is Grip? Grip prevents you from sliding around on the mat and keeps you grounded, especially as you progress into more challenging poses. Shopping online for a mat with good grip can be challenging, though. Devaney says she's 'found that the grippiest textures look almost like they're woven into the mat rather than stamped or printed on top—meaning the texture seems to have depth.' But 'the good news is that nearly all yoga mats get grippier with use, so if you end up with one that you realize is slippery after using it a few times, all is not lost. With continued use, it'll become grippier.' What Is The Best Mat For Hot Yoga (Or Sweatier Workouts In General)? If you tend to sweat a lot during your practice, it's important to choose a mat that is high-quality and nonslip—otherwise there's potential for injury. Look for a mat made from natural rubber or polyurethane materials, as they offer the best grip when wet. They'll provide a secure foundation for your flow, prevent slipping and ensure stability, which is particularly important in challenging poses. Also, look for mats with a textured surface, as it will give you better traction. Finally, yoga mats with moisture-wicking properties are good to consider—they can absorb excess moisture and keep the surface dry. How Do You Clean A Yoga Mat? It's important to clean your yoga mat regularly (typically after each use, but perhaps less often if your practice isn't particularly sweaty) to remove any dirt, sweat and bacteria that can build up on the mat's surface. While it's possible to buy yoga mat cleaners, Devaney says she uses a simple mixture of vinegar and water (at a one-to-four ratio) in a spray bottle to clean her yoga mats. If you'd like the cleaning solution to be slightly scented, add a few drops of your preferred essential oil to the mixture. How Do You Choose An Environmentally Friendly Yoga Mat? The most environmentally friendly yoga mats are typically made from natural, sustainable materials. Cork and natural rubber mats are popular choices, as they're biodegradable, renewable and sourced responsibly. Cork yoga mats are made from the bark of cork oak trees, which naturally regenerate after harvesting, reducing the environmental impact. Natural rubber mats come from rubber trees and is both durable and eco-friendly. Look for mats that are free from harmful chemicals like PVC, latex or synthetic rubber, which can harm the environment during production and disposal. Additionally, choosing a mat with a closed-loop manufacturing process and minimal packaging further promotes sustainability in your yoga practice.
CNN
18-04-2025
- Health
- CNN
The best exercise equipment to stay strong as you age, according to trainers
Staying active as you age isn't only commendable, but a medically sound and recommended lifestyle practice. In fact, large bodies of research posit that physical activity acts as a protective factor against everything from stroke and diabetes to certain types of cancer, and may help delay the onset of dementia. As we age, movement can feel more challenging due in part to a reduction in joint fluid, muscle atrophy and changes in the nervous system that control things like coordination and agility. Having worked with people of all ages and fitness levels as a certified personal trainer, I know firsthand just how challenging it can be to maintain a regular fitness routine in the face of bodily changes that yield pain or discomfort. The best news is that starting small with carefully selected equipment can make all the difference in helping you regain and maintain strength — and even rediscover joy in movement. To help you find ways to get moving as you get older, we tapped fitness experts to recommend the best exercise equipment for seniors. NordicTrack AirGlide 14i Elliptical To maintain heart health, Terry Tateossian, certified personal trainer, registered yoga teacher and founder of THOR: The House of Rose, recommends an elliptical machine, like our best-tested option, which features access to a wide range of trainer-led classes, a large touch screen, Bluetooth connectivity and a quiet motor. 'It keeps the user in a fixed position and reduces the possibility of a fall while providing a great full-body cardio workout,' she said. Read our review Lululemon The Mat 5mm 'An exercise mat provides the right amount of cushioning to support joints while offering a stable surface for exercise,' Carter Lee, certified personal trainer and strength and conditioning coach at BetterMe, said. In testing, we found Lululemon's most popular mat offers everything you need to work out or stretch comfortably: a cushioned yet grippy surface, a lightweight and portable build, and plenty of colors to match your style. Read our review OPTP Pro-Roller Soft Density Foam Roller Lee said a foam roller can help with muscle recovery and improve flexibility before or after workouts. Try our favorite soft foam roller for a gentle myofascial release wherever you need it most. Unlike a traditional foam roller, it contains more air within its foam build, which offers more give for sensitive areas. Cap Barbell 2-Pound Neoprene Dumbbell Weights When it comes to training safely with free weights as a senior, the lighter the better. Choosing lower weights helps you practice proper form, respect your body's limits and leave room for progress. These neoprene dumbbells offer a superior grip to help you master the move safely and feature a hex-shaped head to prevent rolling during exercises like renegade rows or modified article I'm a personal trainer. These are the weight workouts I recommend, especially as you agePerform Better Mini Band Resistance Loop Exercise Bands Tateossian recommends resistance bands for active older adults because they promote stability and balance during use. 'They can be used while sitting in a chair and allow variability in the types of exercises that can be performed,' she said. Lee also recommends them as a safer, more portable alternative to heavy weights. Our favorite mini bands come in a four-pack and offer a range of beginner-friendly resistance our review Frame Pilates Reformer Reformer Pilates classes are notoriously hard to get into (the star-studded nature of the sport might have something to do with it). So why not bring a machine home to enjoy at your convenience? 'A great piece of equipment that allows for safe strength training and mobility is the Pilates reformer,' Tateossian said. 'It provides stability and balance while simultaneously allowing users to progress with various resistances, adaptable to the individual's strength and mobility level.' Frame's digitally connected reformer isn't just beautiful, it also takes the guesswork out of resistance training with its instructor-led workouts. Its push-button technology eliminates manual spring adjustments, and a built-in carry handle makes it easy to stow it away when not in use. Yes, it's pricey, but it's worth it if it gets you into regular workouts without leaving your home. Harambe System Starter Bundle Tateossian's go-to pick for building strength is a comprehensive set of accessible, effective tools, from a foam block to bands. 'One of my favorite and most versatile pieces of equipment that incorporates strength training with progressive overload is the Harambe System,' she said. 'Using that system can safely help you progress with Romanian deadlifts, squats, conventional deadlifts, bench presses, overhead presses, rows, tricep extensions, chest flies and more."New Balance Women's 990 V6 Sneaker Save the running shoes for the treadmill and opt for these podiatrist-approved New Balance sneakers with orthopedic benefits. They're foamy enough to keep you light on your feet yet supportive enough to stabilize your stance while you lift. Bonus: They come in wide sizing to support a range of foot shapes and any potential swelling. New Balance Men's 990 V6 Sneaker Many people wear running shoes with too much cushioning during strength training 'And this does not help center the body on the entire foot and leaves them swaying side to side or back and forth while doing weight-bearing exercises, which we definitely don't want,' Tateossian said. Copper Fit Elite Compression Knee Sleeve Tateossian recommends a knee sleeve to protect the knee joint during squats or similar movements that put stress on the knees. This physiotherapist-approved knee brace covers all your bases, with its odor-fighting copper-infused weave material to help you stay fresh; a reinforced band to stay in place while you work out; and light compression to help boost both performance and recovery. Versa Gripps Pro Heightened grip strength is said to be linked to longevity in older adults, but it can be challenging with conditions like arthritis. Tateossian recommends these nonslip grips to ease hand pain and support the wrist, whether you're clutching dumbbells or performing a farmer's carry with kettlebells. Kaocha Folding Chair With Padded Cushion Tateossian advises clients to choose gear that supports progressive overload training (see below) at their current fitness level — even if that means working out from the comfort of a chair. 'If a senior is untrained, over-nourished or under-muscled, I would recommend starting to perform resistance training while seated in a chair or standing,' she said. The ideal chair for working out is made of durable materials like steel and sits firmly on the ground, free of wheels. This option is also foldable and portable for added convenience. Safety While our experts agree that progressive overload — gradually increasing external load to build muscle — is most effective at boosting strength in older adults, safety takes precedence. 'The main focus should be on proper form regardless of the exercise,' Lee said. 'Ensuring that you're doing a movement correctly can minimize the chances of injury and this is especially important when you add in external resistance.' He also recommends selecting gear with built-in safety features designed to minimize the risk of accidents, like a pin-operated machine that lets you safely select your resistance level. Stability As we age, factors like neurological issues, low blood sugar or inner ear conditions can challenge our balance, increasing the risk of slips and falls. The best workout gear for older adults should address this concern. 'The elements I would look for when working with an untrained senior are types of equipment that provide stability and are easy to use while in a seated position,' Tateossian said. Simulates activities of daily living Tateossian recommends prioritizing equipment that simulates normal daily activities such as standing up, picking items off the floor and reaching overhead to lower objects. This approach can help reduce the risk of real-life injuries. 'For example, equipment that safely allows a senior to perform Romanian deadlifts, lat pull-downs and squats would be great additions to any senior workout regimen,' she said. 'This includes dumbbells, barbells, medicine balls and resistance bands.' Unilateral movements Equipment that allows users to safely perform unilateral movements — or work one side at a time — can help correct muscular imbalances, according to Tateossian. Cable machines, dumbbells and resistance bands are all smart picks for achieving this goal. Portability Prioritize fitness gear that's easy to store and transport, Lee said. Lightweight. foldable options are your best friend in helping you seamlessly and safely incorporate exercise into your routine, whether at home or at the gym. Accessibility Overly complex machines can drain your energy before you've laced up your sneakers. Lee said to prioritize equipment that promotes ease of access through simple assembly, intuitive controls and minimal maintenance. The following FAQs have been answered by certified personal trainers Carter Lee and Terry Tateossian. Which exercise equipment isn't safe for seniors? Which exercise equipment isn't safe for seniors? There is no single piece of exercise equipment that is universally safe or unsafe for seniors specifically, as it depends on their training level and body composition, according to Tateossian. Though, she said you should generally steer clear of heavy weights, pull-up bars, standing on Bosu balls or performing box jumps or intense running drills. Which exercise equipment for seniors is the most portable? Which exercise equipment for seniors is the most portable? According to Lee, the most portable equipment for seniors generally includes light dumbbells, resistance bands, medicine balls and exercise mats. What exercise equipment can seniors use while seated in a chair? What exercise equipment can seniors use while seated in a chair? While chair-based exercises might appear low-intensity, they provide a valuable way for seniors to maintain fitness and improve health. Seniors can safely gain and maintain strength while seated using a Pilates ring, light dumbbells, resistance bands, kettlebells, a TRX system, pedal exercisers and medicine balls, according to Tateossian. For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights on the best fitness gear for seniors. Carter Lee, certified personal trainer and strength and conditioning coach at BetterMe Marissa Miller, certified personal trainer from the American Council on Exercise and contributing editor at CNN Underscored Terry Tateossian, certified personal trainer, registered yoga teacher and founder of THOR: The House of Rose CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. Contributing editor Marissa Miller has 15 years of experience writing and reporting on all things health and well-being, and serves as a certified personal trainer with a specialization in orthopedic exercise. For this article, she consulted two certified personal trainers for their advice on selecting the best fitness equipment suitable for seniors.
