Sticky Vs. Cotton Yoga Mat
The yoga mat is a key item to any practice and should be selected with care. When choosing between a sticky mat and a cotton mat, consider your yoga style preference.
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Sticky Mats
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Sticky mats are the most common yoga mats due to their high traction and user friendliness. The stickiness helps you hit each pose without slipping and losing balance. Select a sticky mat if practicing power yoga or vinyasa yoga; these types require quick flowing movements. Sticky mats are usually very thin, so they should be avoided if you have joint problems and need additional cushioning.
Cotton Mats
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Cotton mats are a popular choice when practicing yoga for a long period of time. The cotton absorbency helps to regulate your body temperature as you sweat, creating a comfortable and cooling yoga practice. Eco-friendly mats are available in organic cotton, natural cotton, jute and recycled rubber.
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Considerations
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If traction is a key concern, look at the mat's texture. A pattern of raised bumps or roughness can have the same effect as a sticky mat and keep you in place during a yoga session. Thickness should also be taken into consideration; mats can range from 1/4 inch to 1/16 inch. If you prefer balance over comfort, choose a thinner mat that will help you feel connected to the floor.
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References
- Photo Credit yoga image by Yvonne Bogdanski from Fotolia.com
