Fitpaddy yoga mat MAT01BL, TPE, 183 × 61 cm, black

The Fitpaddy MAT01BL is a black yoga mat made of TPE, measuring 183 × 61 cm with a thickness of 6 mm. It has alignment lines embossed into its surface and comes with a cord for carrying it rolled up. It suits yoga and Pilates as well as stretching, mobility work and bodyweight exercises at home.

Who it suits

A 6 mm mat is a sensible choice if you want one mat for several things: enough cushioning for kneeling, planks and lying exercises on a hard floor, but still firm enough for standing poses and lunges. At under 1 kg it is also easy to take to a class or to the park. The alignment lines are useful if you are new to yoga or Pilates and want a simple reference for where your hands and feet go. At 183 cm long, very tall people may find their head or feet extend past the end when lying flat.

How to use it: a 10-minute mobility start

Roll the mat out with the lines facing up, then work through this sequence, about one minute each:

• Cat-cow on hands and knees, hands under shoulders using the lines as a guide
• Child's pose with arms stretched forward
• Downward dog, pedalling the heels gently
• Low lunge, each side
• Thread the needle on all fours, each side
• Glute bridge, slow reps
• Lying spinal twist, each side

For a full routine with explanations, see our mobility routine for beginners.

How it compares

Mats differ mainly in material and thickness. TPE mats like this one are light and have a slightly springy feel. PVC mats are often cheaper and heavier, natural rubber mats grip very well but weigh more and have a smell at first, and thick foam mats of 10 mm or more are soft for floor work but less stable when standing. If you are setting up a training corner, our guide to home gym equipment for beginners puts the mat in context with other basics.

Care and lifespan

Wipe the mat after sweaty sessions with a damp cloth, lukewarm water and a mild detergent, rinse off any residue and let it air-dry away from radiators. Do not machine-wash it, avoid bleach and harsh cleaners, and do not leave it in hot sun or rain, which wears the surface faster. Roll it with the top side facing out so the ends lie flat when you unroll it.