What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a thinner yoga mat?
I practice Bikram and have been using a 3 mm mat which is now well due for replacement.
I am wondering if it makes sense to aspire for an even thinner mat, i.e. if it is better for you to practice on a skinny mat, i.e. go for 2 mm or even less.
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The thickness of your yoga mat has a lot to do with how comfortable it is — too thin, and your knee may get banged up during crescent lunge. The tradeoff is that thick yoga mats (some as thick as 1/4 inch) can make it harder for you to feel a strong connection to the floor, making you more wobbly. Otherwise, it really just depends on whether you want a bulky mat to be carrying around.
Purely a 'by experience' answer here, having tried both:
Advantages of a thinner mat:
More sturdy foundation for balancing
Far less bulky when rolled up for transport/storage
Dries quicker from sweat/moisture (especially important in Bikram)
Advantages of a thicker mat:
Knee cushioning when kneeling
Tops of the feet cushioning when sitting on your heels
Head cushioning when doing headstands
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