Yoga Mat Dimensions: Your Essential Guide

Choosing the right yoga mat dimensions is crucial for an optimal yoga practice. The right dimensions can significantly enhance your experience, providing the comfort and stability you need for various Asanas (physical postures).

Whether you are a beginner or an advanced practitioner, understanding yoga mat dimensions will help you find the perfect fit for your body and practice style.

When selecting a yoga mat, dimensions matter. The length, width, and thickness of your mat can influence your comfort, safety, and overall performance during yoga classes. By selecting a mat that matches your personal needs and practice environment, you can improve your alignment, support your joints, and enhance your overall yoga experience.

This guide will help you navigate the various yoga mat dimensions and make an informed choice tailored to your practice.

Quick Answers to Yoga Mat Dimensions

If you're short on time, here's your quick guide to the dimensions of yoga mats:

Yoga Mat Dimensions

Small Size: 68 inches (5 feet 8 inch) long and 24 inches (2 feet) wide.

Standard Size: 72 inches (6 feet) long and 24 inches (2 feet) wide.

Large Sizes: 80 inches (6 feet 8 inch) long and 30 inches (2 feet 6 inch) wide.

Extra Large Size: 84 inches (7 feet) long and 36 inches (3 feet) wide.

Interestingly, the standard size of yoga mats hasn't always been the same. Earlier yoga mats were often smaller, but as yoga evolved and practices became more group oriented, the dimensions increased to accommodate greater movement and flexibility. As well as people typically being taller in the west.

Yoga Mat Thicknesses

Thin Mats (1–2 mm): Ideal for travel; minimal cushioning.

Standard Mats (3–5 mm): Balance between comfort and stability; versatile for various types of yoga.

Thick Mats (6–10 mm): Enhanced cushioning; beneficial for sensitive joints.

Extra-Thick Mats (11–13 mm): Maximum cushioning; primarily used for therapeutic practices.

Thickness will have different meanings depending on the material used. Foam yoga mats will be much thicker than natural rubber mats however that extra thickness doesn't translate into extra cushion or comfort due to the nature of foam being less dense and therefore compressing more which may lead to wrist and balancing issues.

Yoga Mat Material Density

Rating density squishiness - firmness with a simple scale:

1. Very Squishy
2. Squishy
3. Medium
4. Firm
5. Very Firm

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC is a type of plastic that is highly durable and dense. It is known for being long-lasting and providing a stable, non-slip surface for yoga practice.

Density Rating: 4-5 (firm to very firm)

PVC mats have a high density because they provide minimal give under pressure. This firmness makes them excellent for standing and balance poses, where a strong and supportive base is required.

TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer)

TPE is a blend of rubber and plastic polymers, designed to be lightweight, flexible, and environmentally friendlier than PVC. TPE mats are known for being soft and squishy, with a moderate level of cushioning with greater thickness.

Density Rating: 1–2 (very squishy to squishy)

TPE mats can feel squishy and soft, which provides a higher level of comfort and flexibility. However, they still offer little support for joints due to being too compressible at a single point which causes poor alignment of wrists. The density rating can vary based on thickness, with thinner mats feeling firmer (you will feel the floor) and thicker mats feeling softer (great for floor and supine poses).

Natural Rubber

Made from the sap of rubber trees, natural rubber is eco-friendly and offers excellent grip (on hands and floor) and stability. It has a dense, slightly springy texture.

Density Rating: 4 (firm)

Natural rubber mats feel firm and provide strong support while allowing a small amount of give. The density rating is high because of the material's natural weight and the solid base it provides, ideal for stability in active or balance-focused practices.

NBR (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber)

NBR is a synthetic rubber known for being soft and cushioned. It is commonly used for thick exercise mats that prioritize comfort over firmness.

Density Rating: 2–3 (squishy to medium)

NBR mats are softer and have significant give under pressure, making them ideal for restorative practices and joint support. The density rating is lower due to the material's plush feel and lack of stability for rigorous or balance-demanding practices.

Cork

Cork is harvested from the bark of cork oak trees and is a natural, eco-friendly material. It has a firm and textured surface that provides excellent grip when wet.

Density Rating: 3 (medium)

Cork mats feel firm and stable, with a natural texture that enhances grip as you sweat. The density is medium because, while cork provides good support, it is lighter and less dense than synthetic materials like PVC or natural rubber.

Jute

Jute is a natural fiber derived from plants, often blended with other materials to create a textured and eco-friendly yoga mat. It is breathable and offers moderate cushioning.

Density Rating: 3 (medium)

Jute mats have a textured and firm feel, with a balance of softness and stability. The density is rated as medium because the mat provides enough support for most practices without being overly firm or too soft.

Cotton

Cotton mats, also known as yoga rugs, are made from woven cotton fibers. They are highly breathable, soft, and foldable, often used for meditation or gentle yoga practices.

Density Rating: 2-3 (squishy to medium)

Cotton mats are soft and pliable, with some support for balance or standing poses. The density rating is low to medium regardless of thickness, making them best for meditative or restorative classes.

Flux Cork Yoga Mat

My very own Flux Cork Yoga Mat adheres to the standard size, offering a balance of space and convenience. Crafted with sustainability and support in mind, this mat is a shining example of how the right yoga mat dimensions can enhance your practice. Learn more about cork yoga mats on a previous blog post of mine.

Yoga Mat Dimensions: A Comprehensive Overview

Ready to explore the different sizes of yoga mats? 

The Typical Dimensions of a Yoga Mat

The standard size for a yoga mat is 72 inches in length and 24 inches in width. This is no random guess, but a well-thought-out dimension that offers a balance of comfort, adequate space for most poses & people, and portability. It's the size you'll most commonly encounter, and it's also the size of our Flux Cork Yoga Mat. However, that's not where the story ends. 

The Range of Yoga Mat Sizes

Yoga mats come in a variety of sizes, each designed to cater to different needs and preferences. Here's a quick rundown.

Small Mats: For those with a compact stature or those who prefer a smaller mat for portability, mats as small as 68 inches in length and 24 inches in width are available. Be careful here, most companies will not indicate it’s smaller than a standard size mat.

Standard Mats: As mentioned earlier, the typical 72 by 24 inches is the go-to size for many yogis.

Large Mats: Offering ample space for expansive poses, larger yoga mats can go up to 84 inches in length and 36 inches in width. These are perfect for those who like to spread out or need extra space for certain poses. 

Extra Wide Mats: For those who appreciate more lateral space, extra wide mats extend up to 30 or even 36 inches in width while maintaining the standard 72-inch length. 

Understanding the Dimensions

But, why these specific dimensions?

Well, these sizes have been chosen after decades of yogis using yoga mats now becoming an industry standard. The length of the mat is typically designed to comfortably accommodate a person's height, allowing for a variety of poses from standing to lying down. The width, on the other hand, is typically a bit more than the average human's shoulder-width, providing ample space for poses like savasana and down dog. 

The aim here is to provide a space that allows for free and comfortable movement, without leaving you feeling cramped or limited. And while these dimensions have been standardized, remember that the beauty of yoga lies in its adaptability. Your mat should serve you and your practice, not the other way around.

Finding the Perfect Mat: Influences on your Yoga Mat Dimensions

Let's venture into the crucial aspects of finding the perfect mat for you. Yoga is a personal journey, and your mat is an extension of that journey. It needs to fit your body and the style of your practice.

Considering Your Body Type and Height

First off, let's discuss body type and height. Yes, the typical yoga mat measures 72 inches by 24 inches, but 'typical' doesn't necessarily mean it's for everyone. For instance, if you're taller than average, you might prefer a mat that gives you a little extra length to fully stretch out in poses like Cobra Pose. Likewise, if you're smaller, you could enjoy the benefits of a smaller mat such as portability.

Your Style of Yoga Practice Matters

Your style of practice also plays a significant role in determining the best yoga mat dimensions for you. If you're into restorative yoga or enjoy wider poses, an extra-wide mat could be a game-changer. On the other hand, if your practice is more aligned with dynamic styles like Vinyasa or Ashtanga, a standard mat will often provide just the right amount of space for your flow.

Extra Space Yoga Mat: A Boon or a Bane?

While it might seem like having more mat space is always better, remember that more space also means more mat to carry. If you're a traveling yogi like I often am, lugging around an extra-large mat might not be practical. But if your mat generally stays put, say, in a home studio, then a larger mat could provide the luxury of space without the drawback of portability. 

Another consideration is that many studios are limited in space and your extra wide and long mat may not be appropriate for use in your local studio. Check with your studio if it’s ok to use these large mats in the studio as many studios need to get people in the door to keep those doors open. You don’t want to be the yogi that takes up two spaces in a yoga studio just because you’re 2 inches taller than the other participants.

Asivana's Flux Cork Yoga Mat: Breaking Down the Dimensions

Yoga Mat Standard Dimensions

First, let's talk numbers. Our Flux Cork Yoga Mat measures 72 inches in length and 24 inches in width. These dimensions echo the standard size you'll find across the yoga world. It's a size that I've found to be just right for most yogis. Not too big, not too small - it's in that Goldilocks zone. Standing at 6’1” I fit perfectly on the mat with just a little bit of adjusting.

Thicker for Comfort: 5mm of Bliss

The mat boasts a thickness of 5mm, slightly more than the average yoga mat. Now, why did I go for the extra millimeter? Simple. Comfort. I've found that a bit of extra padding can go a long way, especially if you're holding poses on my joints for extended periods or practicing on harder surfaces. And yes, I managed to add that extra comfort without compromising the mat's Stability- the mat’s natural rubber doesn’t squish around creating extra challenge in standing poses.

Cork Material: Sustainability Meets Performance

The Flux Cork Yoga Mat is not just about the right dimensions. It's also about the right material. I was attracted to cork for its sustainability but fell in love with cork for its performance. It's naturally antimicrobial, repelling bacteria and odors. Plus, the more you sweat, the grippier it gets. Isn't that something? 

Designed with You in Mind

Lastly, I want to emphasize this - I designed the Flux Cork Yoga Mat with you in mind. I considered various body types, heights, and yoga styles. It's a mat that's as versatile as the beautiful practice of yoga itself. Whether you're tall, petite, a fan of restorative yoga, or a Vinyasa power yogi like me, this mat has something to offer you.

Space Considerations: Yoga Mat Dimensions and Your Practice Environment

We've taken a good look at yoga mat dimensions from the standard to the extra-large. But, there's another crucial piece of the puzzle we've yet to explore: your practice space.

How much room do you have for your yoga practice? And how does this relate to the size of your mat? Let's dive in.

Understanding Your Space

I've practiced yoga in all sorts of environments, from the great outdoors to cozy home corners to spacious studios and everything in between. What I've realized is this: understanding the dimensions of your practice space is an important key to choosing the right yoga mat.

Let's break it down:

Small spaces: Maybe you're setting up in a compact apartment or a dedicated corner of your room. If so, a standard size mat (68-72 inches long, 24 inches wide) usually fits well. It's compact and easy to roll up and store away after your session. Plus it can go anywhere else you might do yoga!

Medium to large spaces: If you've got a spacious living room or a whole room dedicated to yoga (lucky you!), you could easily accommodate an extra-large mat. These mats offer more room to stretch out, and they're perfect if you love doing expansive poses or sequences.

If you are getting a dedicated mat for this space, then I would strongly recommend looking at an extra long and wide mat as this space will allow you to be more free in your movement and worry less about staying on the mat.

Measuring Your Space

Before making your yoga mat purchase, I recommend measuring your practice space.

1. Clear the area where you plan to do your yoga practice.
2. Using a tape measure, measure the length and width of the space. 
3. Account for some extra space around the mat.

Your legs are about half of your height, maybe more. Make sure when they’re extended to your side or behind you that they aren’t kicking a wall or furniture. If you can’t prevent it in your space make sure if you kick or bump something near you that it won’t cause any damage.

Finding Balance Between Mat and Space

Choosing a yoga mat that fits your space perfectly can enhance your practice significantly. It can provide you with the freedom to move and stretch without restrictions.

I've often found that even if you have a large space, a standard mat can be more than sufficient if you're practicing styles like Hatha or Vinyasa. Similarly, even in a smaller space, an extra-large mat can be a boon if you're into styles that often rest the body on the mat, like Restorative or Yin yoga.

The key is to consider your yoga mat dimensions in relation to your available practice space. With a little thought and planning, you can create an environment that supports your unique yoga journey.

Yoga Studio Dimensions for Yoga Mats

Ever walked into a yoga studio that feels cramped or, on the flip side, so vast that it lacks a sense of unity and connection? 

Having a (7 person) home yoga studio myself, I know that calculating the perfect space for yoga mats is crucial not only for logistical purposes but also to create a harmonious, welcoming, and comfortable environment for practice.

So, if you're considering setting up a yoga studio or rearranging an existing one, let's talk about how you can determine the number of yoga mats your space can accommodate.

How to Measure Yoga Mats for Yoga Studio Dimensions

Quick Answer

Measure your studio area in feet, then divide the total square footage by 21 (7 feet long and 3 feet wide yoga mat spaces). This accounts for a standard yoga mat plus extra space for movement and personal comfort.

Length and Width

A standard yoga mat is about 6 feet long and 2 feet wide. However, for a yoga studio, it's ideal to allocate at least 7 feet in length and 3 feet in width per practitioner. This extra space is to accommodate larger yoga mats, taller practitioners, and to ensure there's enough room for various poses and comfort.

Spacing

Post-pandemic, it might be preferable to provide a bit more space between mats. Listen to your yogis and adjust accordingly for their comfort and safety.

Other Amenities

You might need to allocate space for props, storage, or even a small lounge area. Keep this in mind when measuring your space.

Room for Growth

While you may not start at maximum capacity, your optimal time slot and teachers eventually will fill that studio space. Students will be able to spread out in less than filled classes.

Measuring your yoga studio for the appropriate number of mats is about balancing practicality with comfort. You can only have so many classes a day and you have rent, teachers, overhead, and yourself to pay at the end of the day.

Your students will appreciate having a little extra space even in your most popular classes. I would also suggest a real-world experiment once you've narrowed down your options, bring some yoga mats with you and lay them out to get a feel for how your classes will go!

The Origin of Yoga Mats

I remember when I first started yoga, we didn't have mats. We practiced on hard wooden floors with layers of Kusha grass, I also had to walk there uphill, both ways, in a snowstorm! But then came the yoga mat, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer. All jokes aside, yoga mats have changed a lot in the last several decades. Starting with grass pads to towels to plastic polymers to today practicing on cork mats.

So, where did yoga mats come from? It's believed that the modern day iteration of yoga mats originated in Germany in the early 1980s, where a woman named Angela Farmer discovered a type of underlay used by carpet fitters. She found it provided the needed grip and cushioning for her yoga practice. This concept was soon refined and improved from other industrial plastics, leading to the first purpose-built yoga mats we know today.

The Evolution of Yoga Mat Dimensions

Our yoga mats have certainly evolved over the years, not only in their material composition but also in their dimensions. Initially, yoga mats were simply cut from rolls of material, resulting in somewhat inconsistent sizes. However, as the popularity of yoga grew and different styles emerged, so did the demand for mats that catered to these different practices.

Traditionally, a standard yoga mat measured around 68 inches long and 24 inches wide, which catered well to the majority of practitioners. However, with the recognition that yogis come in all shapes and sizes, that different yoga styles require different amounts of space, and the increase in men, who are typically taller, practicing more yoga, yoga mat dimensions have become more diverse. Nowadays, you can find mats that are extra-long, extra-wide, or even circular to accommodate your unique needs and practice style.

The Value of a Yoga Mat

I could go on for days about how my yoga mat has transformed my life. It's like my own personal space and time ship. With it, I find myself, grow, and become a better person.

Not only that, but here's why you want to have a yoga mat. Next time someone asks you "do I need to own a yoga mat to do yoga?", you can tell them the value of having your very own yoga mat which of course is the control over:

Comfort and Cushioning

Your yoga mat offers a comfortable surface that cushions your body from the hard floor. This is especially valuable during seated, kneeling, and lying poses, and it protects your joints during more vigorous or weighted postures.

Safety and Stability

Yoga mats provide a non-slip surface, ensuring stability and safety during your practice. They offer an excellent grip for your hands and feet and limited squishiness for standing pose balance.

Hygiene

Having your own yoga mat ensures that you are practicing on a clean surface. It's especially important in a communal class setting where you would otherwise be using questionably cleaned shared yoga mats. Even getting an anti-microbial cork yoga mat for when you too forget to clean your yoga mat after class!

Personal Space

In a group class, your mat defines your personal space. And other students respect that! You can even have an extra wide yoga mat for more space.

Enhancement of Practice

Finally, the use of your own yoga mat signifies a commitment to the practice. It's a dedicated space where you perform your practice - a constant that can help in cultivating a routine and discipline.

Sustainability and Yoga Mat Dimensions

There's another piece of the yoga mat dimension puzzle and it’s incredibly close to my heart: sustainability. And yes, you read that right. Like the materials of your yoga mat, the size of your yoga mat can play a part in your sustainability efforts. Let's get into it.

The Sustainability Factor

I've always been a big believer in the idea that less can indeed be more, especially when it comes to sustainability. Choosing the right-sized yoga mat isn't just about comfort or space—it's also about reducing waste and being mindful of our planet's resources. 

Here's a simple way to think about it:

Smaller mats: When you choose a standard-sized mat, you're essentially minimizing the amount of material used to make that mat. It's a small step, but it contributes to overall sustainability efforts. 

Larger mats: Now, you might think, "But Jack, I need an extra-large mat for my practice!" And that's perfectly okay. If a larger mat genuinely serves your practice better, then it's not waste—it's being put to good use. The key is to avoid buying a larger mat just for the sake of it, especially if a standard size mat would serve you just as well.

The Flux Cork Yoga Mat: Sustainability in Action

At Asivana, I'm proud to say that we don't just talk about sustainability—we live it. Our Flux Cork Yoga Mat, regardless of its size, is a testament to this commitment. It's made from sustainably harvested cork and natural rubber, making it a choice you can feel good about, not just for your practice, but for our planet too. 

Making Mindful Choices

I'll be honest, friends. Choosing the right yoga mat size is just one small part of a much larger sustainability picture. But, every little bit helps. By choosing a mat that's just the right size for your needs, you're making a mindful choice that respects the earth and its resources. And that, my dear yogis, is a step in the right direction.

So, in your quest for the perfect yoga mat dimensions, don't forget to consider sustainability. Because in the grand scheme of things, less can indeed be more.

Unleashing Your Inner Hero with the Right Yoga Mat Dimensions

From the nitty-gritty of yoga mat dimensions to the larger aspects of sustainability. A whole article on yoga mat dimensions, imagine that! Let’s review what we covered.

Choosing the Right Yoga Mat

I know we've focused a lot on the physical aspects of your yoga mat—its dimensions, the space it occupies, the material it's made from. But remember, at the heart of all this, the mat is a tool, a vehicle. It's a means to an end—and that end is your growth, your tranquility, your inner hero. The right mat can help you unlock all of that. 

The right yoga mat dimensions can make your practice comfortable, can help you feel at home wherever you lay it down, and can even contribute to your efforts to protect our precious planet. But most importantly, the right yoga mat can help you connect—with your body, your breath, your spirit, and your community. 

Your Journey, Your Choice

I always think, "Yoga is not a one-size-fits-all practice." It's a personal journey. And so, the mat that you choose should reflect your unique needs and values. Don't rush the process. Take your time, consider all the factors we've discussed, and make a choice that feels right for you.

The Flux Cork Yoga Mat

On my journey, I created the Flux cork yoga mat as the ideal yoga mat for my practice. It's comfortable, it's grippy, it's sustainable, and the yoga mat dimensions suit my practice perfectly. But more than all that, it's a yoga mat that I feel good about using—because I know it's made with care, love, and intention.

I hope that you too will find a mat that supports you on your journey, whether it's the Flux cork yoga mat or another. And if you do choose to try my Flux cork yoga mat, I'll be right there with you, cheering you on as you take your next step towards unleashing your inner hero.