Best exercise mat

An exercise mat is the first step to setting up a workout space at home. We have the best options for every activity level here!

A woman poses on an exercise mat next to the ocean.
(Image credit: Unsplash)

An exercise mat is the first piece of equipment to pick up when you start your fitness journey. You can use it at home if you're building a gym there, bring it to classes with friends, or take a trip to the beach and work out next to the water. Various options work for different activity levels, and we've collected the best of the best for you here! 

Best overall

A blue extra thick folding exercise mat.

(Image credit: Amazon)

BalanceFrom trifold folding exercise mat

Heavy duty pick

Some workouts require more padding than others, and that's especially true if you're practicing gymnastics or martial arts. The BalanceFrom Trifold Exercise Mat delivers a thicker mat than many other options making it uniquely suited for heavy-duty workouts. It features a trifold, making it easy to store out of the way and then pull out when it's time to get your exercise. The BalanceFrom is 2 inches thick and made of high-density EPE foam. This option comes in four colors and measures 6 feet long by 2 feet wide. 

Best value

A purple rolled up exercise mat.

(Image credit: Amazon)

BalanceFrom goyoga+ exercise mat

Get a workout wherever you go

If you plan on doing yoga, chances are you'll want to check out some classes at some point. The BalanceFrom GoYoga+ Exercise Mat is super affordable, making it a great starter option before deciding if you're going to invest in your fitness journey. It comes with a strap so that it's easy to roll up your mat and bring it with you wherever you roam. This mat is 71" long and 24" wide and comes with a knee pad as well. You can snag it in seven colors, and it features a double-sided non-slip surface.

Best adjustable size

A pile of black sectioned exercise mats.

(Image credit: Amazon)

Prosource fit puzzle exercise mat

Pick your size

If you have a weirdly sized workout space, then a regular exercise mat may not do the trick. The Prosource Fit Puzzle Exercise Mat lets you pick your mat's size and dimensions to fit your space. They feature a puzzle design that enables you to attach tiles or remove them quickly. These tiles are 3/4" thick and made of durable EVA foam. They are available in three colors, and you can buy up to 96 square feet of tile at a time!

Best for home gyms

woman doing yoga on large mat

(Image credit: GXMMAT)

Gymmat large yoga mat

Great for large spaces

If you have a dedicated space at home to work out, you might not want to reset it before and after every workout. The Gymmat Large Yoga Mat is perfect for being settled in one place long term. It measures out at six feet by four feet, making it ideal for a variety of activities. It comes in two colors, weighs under eight pounds, and features a double-sided non-slip surface.

Bottom line

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An exercise mat is the first piece of equipment that many new fitness enthusiasts pick up. They are easier on your feet and, depending on the model, perfect for various activities. Our favorite pick is the BalanceForm Trifold Folding Exercise Mat. It has an extra-thick construction, is easy to put away when not being used, and at six feet by 2 feet, it's the perfect size for any home!

Jen Karner

Jen Karner is a staff writer on Fit&Well's sister brands at Future Plc. Specializing in tech and gaming writing, Jen has written for Android Central, iMore, Windows Central, and other huge titles. Jen covers everything from phones to gaming laptops and helps readers decide what products really are worth the money. Jen is also the author of a paranormal horror novel.