How Thick Should Your Yoga Mat Be? The Answer You Didn't Expect (And That Could Change Your Practice)

If you've ever wondered, "How thick should a yoga mat be?" you're not alone. It's one of the most searched questions by beginners — and often by those who've been practicing for years but have never really found the right mat.

Often overlooked, the thickness of the mat is actually one of the elements that most influence comfort, stability and pleasure in the practice. Let's see together everything you need to know to choose with awareness, avoiding common mistakes and finally understanding what really makes the difference.

How much does thickness really matter?

Imagine doing a downward dog on a mat that’s too thick: you feel unstable, your hands sink in, you lose your center. Or think of a yin yoga class on a mat that’s too thin: you feel every inch of the floor.

The right thickness accompanies you, supports you and... disappears. Yes, because when you find the right one, you don't even feel it anymore: it becomes a natural extension of your body.

Thin mats (1 - 3 mm): the choice of essentials

Thin mats are often chosen by those with an advanced or dynamic practice. They offer maximum contact with the ground and stability.

✔️ Perfect for styles like Ashtanga or Vinyasa
✔️ Ideal for those looking for lightness and easy transport
✖️ Not suitable if you have sensitive joints or practice on the floor

Medium mats (4 - 5 mm): perfect balance for everyone

They are the most versatile choice. Comfortable, stable, suitable for different surfaces and types of practice.

✔️ Excellent support without losing grip
✔️ Ideal for mixed practices, beginners and advanced
✖️ If you are looking for maximum comfort on hard floors, consider a little more thickness

the Fitnexfly mat, with its 4 mm cork and natural rubber, falls into this category: it is designed to provide comfort and control in every position, without compromising the connection with the ground.

Thick mats (6mm or more): a hug for the joints

They are perfect if you have pain, previous injuries or prefer slow practices like Yin Yoga or Restorative.

✔️ Super comfort for knees, back, elbows
✔️ Ideal for very hard surfaces
✖️ Less stable in balanced positions
✖️ Less comfortable to carry

But then... which one should I choose?

The truth is that there is no universal answer. But there are questions you can ask yourself:

• Do I practice often or occasionally?

• Do I have sensitive joints?

• Do I do a dynamic or slow style?

• Do I need to transport it often?

Answering these questions will lead you to the best choice for you, not for "everyone".

Listen to your body (really)

Sometimes we get so focused on technique or style that we forget one thing: the body knows. When you try the right mat, you feel it. No knee pain, no instability, just presence.

That's why the best advice is not a number, but an invitation: listen to yourself.

Did you like this article? Share it with those who practice with you or have just started: even the thickness, in the end, makes the difference.