Foam Mats

The Functions of Foam
How foam mats benefit your exercise regimen

Foam makes a darn good surfboard, puts out grease fires, and is an integral part of a killer cappuccino.

But what about foam in exercise mats?

Foam& as an exercise tool?
Workout facilities and gyms feature foam mats to make exercising more comfortable, less fatiguing, and less punishing on your body. Most foam mats you will find in most exercise areas are medium-duty mats of solid colors, and are 5/8 inches thick.

Depending on the manufacturer, these foam mats often come in many color choices. Usually this type of foam mat is sized 2 feet by 2 feet and has an interlocking design. Foam mats like this come in three designs: corner, border, and inside. There is no need for adhesive on the bottom, because the foam mat will grip the tile or wood floor underneath. Using foam mats on carpet is not recommended because it impairs adhesion between the mat and the floor.

Heavy-duty foam mats
If you are doing more intense exercise than aerobics or Pilates, you will need heavy-duty foam mats. A thickness of at least 7/8 of an inch is needed for high-intensity exercise, especially if it involves physical contact like boxing, wrestling, or martial arts. Some of these thicker foam mats are actually double-sided with two colors.

They also can interlock, and feature many benefits of EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) foam, such as being water- and odor-proof. They are so durable, they can even hold up to shoes and boots.

Whatever your exercise needs, you'll find foam that mats will make your workout better.