The notion of mat derives from mattress . Mattress is a word that has French etymological origin, specifically it derives from “couche”. The term is used to name a thin, elongated mattress , which can be used for physical activity or placed on a seat.
For example: “Today I was doing sit-ups on a mat for half an hour,” “I'm going to look for a mat for the bench so you're more comfortable,” “The evacuees had to sleep on the mats that were distributed on the gym floor.” .
At a general level it can be said that a mat is a lower mattress than traditional ones; that is, of lower height . By using less filling material, they are economical, although they are also less comfortable.
It is common for mats to be used in temporary shelters . If a natural disaster forces many people to evacuate from their homes, mats can be placed in a covered space (a school, a gym, etc.) for these individuals to sleep on until they can return home.
Mats are also used in campsites , youth hostels and other informal hotel establishments. This is because they are appropriate for trundle beds and bunk beds . When the bed frame is very small, it may not have room for a conventional mattress.
The small mattress and the mat used to perform gymnastic exercises are other elements that, in several countries , are called mats.
When buying the best fitness mat, it is necessary to take a series of aspects into account. Specifically, it is essential to know that there are two clearly differentiated types:
-Foldable gymnastics mats, which have the great advantage that they can be carried more comfortably from one place to another and in a simple way. They may have handles to facilitate transportation. They are usually 180 centimeters long and 30 centimeters wide.
-Thick gymnastics mats. They are preferred by those who look above all for comfort when lying on them and performing different exercises. They are very soft and, in addition, they usually have a higher weight than other models since they can be up to one kilo.
In recent times, among the most in-demand mats are those used to practice Yoga or Pilates. These have to be soft and very comfortable since it is necessary for the person to find the necessary comfort to be able to maintain the complex postures that are performed where they have to support their hands, elbows and feet.
In the same way, we must not overlook the existence of the so-called beach or pool mats. They are inflatable, float in the water and allow you to lie on them enjoying the tranquility of the water while sunbathing peacefully.