What Size Yoga Mat Should I Get

Okay, picture this: I'm in a packed yoga class, trying to find my zen, when suddenly, my downward-facing dog becomes a downward-facing face-plant. Why? Because my hands were halfway off my ridiculously tiny yoga mat and onto the suspiciously sticky studio floor. Gross. And that, my friends, is when I realized the importance of a decent-sized yoga mat. (Lesson learned: maybe invest in a larger surface area for my limbs).

So, you're probably wondering, "What size yoga mat should I get?" Well, that's the million-dollar question, isn't it? (Spoiler alert: it doesn't actually cost a million dollars.) It's not a one-size-fits-all situation, sadly. It's more like a one-size-fits-most-but-let's-consider-your-specific-needs-and-preferences situation. Let's dive in, shall we?

Standard Yoga Mat Size: The Baseline

The standard yoga mat size is typically around 68 inches (173 cm) long and 24 inches (61 cm) wide. This works for a lot of people. It's the yoga mat equivalent of a medium coffee – generally a safe bet. If you're of average height (let's say, under 5'8"), this might be perfectly adequate for you. You'll have enough room for most poses without feeling cramped. But here's the kicker: what if you're not "average"? (Are any of us truly average? Deep thoughts.)

Think about your current yoga practice. Do you frequently find yourself hanging off the ends of your mat during lunges or savasana? (If the answer is yes, it's time to upgrade! Your feet deserve better.)

Long Yoga Mats: For the Tall Yogis (and Those Who Like Extra Space)

If you're on the taller side (generally over 5'8"), you'll definitely want to consider a long yoga mat. These mats usually range from 72 to 84 inches (183 to 213 cm) in length. Trust me, your spine will thank you for not having to cram into a shorter space. Seriously, invest in those extra inches. You won't regret it. (Think of it as legroom on an airplane...but for yoga.)

Even if you're not particularly tall, a longer mat can be beneficial if you simply enjoy having more room to move around. It gives you a greater sense of spaciousness and prevents those awkward moments where your limbs accidentally stray onto the aforementioned sticky studio floor. (Nobody wants that!)

Extra Wide Yoga Mats: For Added Comfort and Stability

Beyond length, consider the width of your mat. Standard width is 24 inches, but you can find extra-wide mats that are 26 to 30 inches wide. These are great for anyone who wants a little more elbow room (literally) or feels like they need extra stability during balancing poses. If you are bigger build, the added width can be beneficial as well.

If you find yourself constantly adjusting your position to stay on your mat, a wider mat might be the answer. It can provide a more secure and grounded feeling, allowing you to focus more on your practice and less on staying within the boundaries of your mat. (Plus, no one will judge you for sprawling out like a starfish during savasana.)

Think About Your Practice Style

The type of yoga you practice can also influence your mat size preference. If you're primarily a Vinyasa flow enthusiast, you'll likely appreciate a longer mat to accommodate those full-body stretches and transitions. Restorative yoga practitioners might prefer a wider mat for added comfort during supported poses. Even the kind of clothes you wear can impact the size. Loose clothes may make you go out of the mat boundaries more often.

Ultimately, the best yoga mat size is the one that feels most comfortable and supportive for you. There is no shame if you want to have a custom one created. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try out different sizes until you find the perfect fit. A good yoga mat is an investment in your well-being, so it's worth taking the time to find one that truly works for you.

And remember, a little extra space is always better than not enough. (Unless you're trying to park in a crowded city. Then, smaller is definitely better.) Happy yoga-ing!