[UPDATED in 2025]
From yoga to free weights, you need a gym mat that supports your body and movement. The right gym matting reduces the risk of injury, absorbs shock, and creates a non-slip surface. Depending on the type of activity you perform, the best gym mat solution can vary. Keep reading to find out the best gym mats for your fitness type.
Table of Contents
What is the Best Gym Mat Material for Fitness?
Gym mats serve two purposes: to protect you and protect the subfloor. Heavy weights can easily damage the floor, and it’s easy to slip on standard flooring exercising. When using proper
heavy duty gym mats, your equipment will last longer, and your body will thank you for it later. If you have any large cardio equipment or workout machines, it’s a good idea to put down gym mats as equipment can move mid-workout, which can cause scratches and scuffs to the floor.
When it comes to fitness, you have a few different materials that are commonly used. You will likely come across rubber, vinyl, and in some cases, turf. The best solution for you depends on your fitness type, the space available and your budget. For example, a home gym where you plan on using free weights and performing bodyweight exercises has different needs to a larger yoga studio or boutique gym.
Rubber tends to be the go-to material for various fitness types and activities because it’s relatively affordable, durable, and non-slip. In terms of maintenance, it’s easy to clean and is long-lasting. Although many workout mat solutions use rubber, there are several different designs, thicknesses, colours, and constructions to suit various activity types and uses.
Which Gym Mat is Right for Your Fitness Type?
Whether you’re upgrading your home gym set up or looking to install new flooring into your commercial gym, gym matting is essential. Here are the best types of gym mats for your fitness type.
HIIT and Bodyweight Workouts
With high-intensity interval training, dynamic movements, and bodyweight workouts, synthetic turf is a good option. You can install it easily and it creates a new level of variety for your workouts. Our range of gym turf and gym
sled tracks are designed for functional training including sled pulls, tyre flips and agility drills. So, if this is your focus, sports turf could be a great option for you.
Free Weights & Weightlifting
Free weights flooring needs to handle the weight without denting or scratching the subfloor. In general, the heavier weight, the thicker the
training mat should be. If you intend on using gym mats for serious lifting and Olympic weightlifting, thick Antishock Gym Tiles are a good option. These denser tiles start at 43mm and go up to 63mm for extra heavy weights.
Multipurpose
If you plan on using a gym for several types of fitness, such as free weights, cardio, and bodyweight exercises, you need to look for something that can support your body and handle the weight element. A popular choice is opting for lighter rubber tiles in 11mm from the
PRO Gym Flooring range or using high density
foam gym tiles such as
Eva Foam Tatami Mats in a 40mm thickness.
Customer Feedback (PRO Gym Flooring)
"we are really impressed with our home gym flooring. The 20mm PRO tile had great reviews and didn't disappoint. It has really enhanced our garage gym, feels great to walk on and easy to clean down after use"
What Thickness should I choose for Gym Flooring?
Here's a quick breakdown of thickness recommendations:
Final Thoughts
It’s always a good idea to align your gym matting with your type of use. To maximise your fitness space and get the most out of it, you want the best flooring solution for your workout.
Check out our Gym Mats UK for the best training surface options.
