How big is a yoga mat? Most yoga mats are a standard size. They are about 68 inches long. They are 24 inches wide. This is the most common size you will find. We call this the standard yoga mat size. But not all mats are this size. Yoga mats come in many sizes. They are made for different people. They are made for different types of yoga. They are also made for travel. Knowing the sizes helps you pick the best mat.
Image Source: yogorillamats.com
Figuring Out Standard Mat Size
Let’s look at the size of a standard yoga mat. A standard mat is usually 68 inches long. This is the length. It is also 24 inches wide. This is the width. So, the standard yoga mat size is 68 inches by 24 inches.
These are the average yoga mat dimensions. Most people find this size works well. It gives enough space for many yoga poses. You can lie down on it. Your body should fit on the mat. Your hands and feet should stay on the mat during poses.
In metric units, the yoga mat dimensions cm are about 173 cm long. They are about 61 cm wide. So, 173 cm by 61 cm is the same as 68 inches by 24 inches. This is the common size in both inches and centimeters.
The yoga mat length width is important. The length lets you stretch out. The width gives you side-to-side room. For many people, the standard 68×24 size is fine.
Why Size Matters When You Do Yoga
The size of your mat is important. It affects how you feel during yoga. It affects how you do poses.
If your mat is too short, your feet or head might go off the ends. This can be not comfortable. It means part of you is on the floor. The floor might be cold or hard.
If your mat is too narrow, your hands or feet might go off the sides. This can make you feel crowded. It can make some poses harder. You need room to move your arms and legs.
Having the right size mat helps you stay on the mat. It gives you a soft, clean space. It helps you feel safe and stable. It makes your yoga practice better.
Checking Out Different Lengths
Yoga mats come in different lengths. The standard length is 68 inches. But some people need more length.
What If You Are Tall?
If you are tall, 68 inches might not be enough. If you lie down, your feet might hang off. If you stretch, your hands might go off the end.
For tall people, there are longer mats. These are called extra long yoga mats. These mats give you more space.
Extra long mats can be different lengths. Some are 71 inches long. Some are 72 inches long. Some are even longer, like 74 inches or 80 inches.
An 80-inch mat is much longer than a standard one. 80 inches is about 203 cm. This gives lots of room for tall people.
If you are 5 feet 10 inches or taller, you might like a longer mat. If you are 6 feet or taller, an extra long mat is probably best. Measure yourself lying down. Add a few inches for extra room. This helps you pick the right length.
Checking Out Different Widths
Yoga mats also come in different widths. The standard width is 24 inches. This works for most people. But some people like more space to the sides.
What If You Want More Side Room?
Some people feel narrow on a standard mat. Their arms might want to go wider in some poses. Or they just like feeling like they have more space.
For these people, there are wider mats. These are called extra wide yoga mats. These mats give you more side-to-side room.
Extra wide mats are often 26 inches wide. Some are 28 inches wide. Some can even be wider, like 30 inches.
A 26-inch wide mat is only a little wider. But it can make a difference. A 30-inch wide mat feels very spacious.
If you feel cramped on a standard mat, try a wider one. An extra wide mat gives you more space for your hands and feet. It can make you feel more free in your poses.
Looking At Yoga Mat Thickness
Besides length and width, thickness is also part of size. Yoga mats are not all the same thickness. The thickness affects how the mat feels. It affects how easy it is to carry.
Thin Mats
Thin mats are usually about 1/16 inch thick. This is about 1.5 mm. These mats are very thin. They are often used for travel. Travel yoga mat dimensions are often thin.
Thin mats are light. They fold or roll up small. They are easy to pack. They do not take up much space.
But thin mats offer less cushion. The floor can feel hard under you. This might not be good for your knees or joints.
Thin mats give you a good feel for the floor. This can help with balance poses. You feel more stable because you are closer to the ground.
Standard Thickness Mats
Most standard mats are thicker. A common thickness is 1/8 inch. This is about 3 mm. Another common thickness is 3/16 inch or 4 mm.
These mats give some cushion. They are not too thin. They are not too thick. They are a good middle choice.
They offer some comfort for joints. They still allow for good balance. They are not too heavy to carry.
This 1/8 inch or 3 mm yoga mat thickness is very popular. It is the average thickness for many mats.
Thicker Mats
Some mats are even thicker. They can be 1/4 inch thick. This is about 6 mm. Some are even thicker, like 1/2 inch (12 mm) or more.
Thicker mats offer a lot of cushion. They are very soft under your body. This is good for poses that put pressure on knees, hips, or wrists.
If you have sensitive joints, a thicker mat can help. It makes kneeling or lying down more comfortable.
But thicker mats can be heavier. They are bigger when rolled up. This makes them harder to carry around.
Thicker mats can also make balance poses harder. You are higher off the ground. The mat is softer. This can make you feel less stable.
So, yoga mat thickness is a trade-off. More cushion usually means less stability and more weight. Less cushion means more stability and less weight.
Grasping How Size Fits Your Needs
Picking the right size mat is important. It is about finding the right fit for you. Think about these things:
Your Height
This is key for length. If you are average height (say, under 5 feet 10 inches), a standard 68-inch mat is likely fine. If you are taller, you need an extra long yoga mat. Look for mats that are 71 inches, 72 inches, or longer. A good rule is to get a mat that is at least as tall as you are. Adding a few extra inches is even better. This way, your whole body fits on the mat when you stretch out.
Your Width
This is key for width. Are you a larger person? Or do you just like lots of side space? If a standard 24-inch mat feels tight, look at an extra wide yoga mat. Sizes like 26 or 28 inches can make a difference. This gives your arms and legs more room in poses where they go out to the sides.
Your Yoga Style
The kind of yoga you do matters.
- Gentle Yoga or Yin Yoga: These styles have many poses where you sit or lie down for a long time. Cushion is nice. A thicker mat (1/4 inch or 6 mm) can be very comfortable. Size might still need to fit your body length and width.
- Vinyasa Flow or Power Yoga: These styles have lots of movement. You need good grip. You also need some cushion but not too much to lose balance. A standard 1/8 inch (3 mm) or 3/16 inch (4-5 mm) mat is usually good. The standard yoga mat size (68×24) works for many people here.
- Standing Poses or Balance Poses: For these, feeling stable is important. A thinner mat (1/8 inch or 3 mm) can help you feel the ground better. This helps with balance. Length and width still need to fit your body so you don’t step off the edge.
- Hot Yoga: You will sweat a lot. Grip is very important. Thickness is less key than the mat’s surface material. But size (length and width) is still needed to keep your sweaty hands and feet on the mat.
Carrying Your Mat
Do you carry your mat often? To a studio? To the park? If yes, think about weight and how big it is when rolled up.
A thin mat (1/16 inch) is light and small. It is easy to carry.
A standard mat (1/8 to 3/16 inch) is still easy to carry for most people.
A thick mat (1/4 inch or more) can be heavy and bulky. It is harder to carry far.
If you travel, look at travel yoga mat dimensions. These mats are made to be light and small for packing.
A Quick Look At Mat Sizes
Here is a simple table. It shows common yoga mat sizes. It includes yoga mat dimensions inches and yoga mat dimensions cm. It also shows typical thickness. This is like a yoga mat size chart.
| Mat Type | Length (Inches) | Width (Inches) | Length (CM) | Width (CM) | Common Thickness (Inches) | Common Thickness (MM) | Who It’s Good For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 68 | 24 | 173 | 61 | 1/8 – 3/16 | 3-5 | Most people of average height; general yoga practice |
| Longer Standard | 71-72 | 24 | 180-183 | 61 | 1/8 – 3/16 | 3-5 | People slightly taller than average |
| Extra Long | 74-80+ | 24 | 188-203+ | 61 | 1/8 – 1/4 | 3-6 | Tall people (6 feet or more) |
| Extra Wide | 68-72 | 26-30 | 173-183 | 66-76 | 1/8 – 1/4 | 3-6 | People who like more side space |
| Travel | 68-71 | 24 | 173-180 | 61 | 1/16 | 1.5 | People who travel or need a light, small mat |
| Extra Thick Home | 68-72 | 24 | 173-183 | 61 | 1/4 – 1/2+ | 6-12+ | People needing lots of joint cushion; home use |
Note: These are common sizes. Actual sizes can be slightly different depending on the brand.
This yoga mat size chart helps you compare. You can see the yoga mat dimensions inches and yoga mat dimensions cm side-by-side.
Digging Deeper Into Mat Types and Sizes
Let’s talk more about the different types of mats based on size.
Standard Mats: The Everyday Choice
As we said, the standard yoga mat size is usually 68 inches by 24 inches. With a thickness around 1/8 inch. This is the average yoga mat dimensions.
This size is popular because it works for most people. It is a good mix of space, weight, and cushion for general use. If you are not sure what size you need, a standard mat is a safe start. Just check your height. If you are much taller than 5’10”, you might need a longer one.
Extra Long Mats: More Room to Stretch
The extra long yoga mat is made for taller people. Standard mats are 68 inches. Extra long mats start around 71 inches and go up. 72 inches is common. 74 inches and 80 inches are also available.
If you are 6 feet (183 cm) tall, an 80-inch mat (203 cm) gives you 20 inches of extra room. This is a lot of space. You can lie down fully. You can do downward dog without your hands going off the top or your feet going off the bottom.
Getting an extra long mat is a must for tall yogis. It makes a big difference in comfort and how well you can do poses. The width is usually still 24 inches, but sometimes they come in wider options too.
Extra Wide Mats: Space to Spread Out
The extra wide yoga mat is for people who want more side space. Standard mats are 24 inches wide. Extra wide mats are often 26 inches or more. Some go up to 30 inches wide.
An extra wide mat gives you more room for your hands in poses like Warrior II or Triangle Pose. It can make you feel less limited. If you have broad shoulders or just like feeling like you have plenty of space on your mat, a wider mat is a good idea.
The length of extra wide mats can be standard (68 inches) or longer (72 inches or more). You can find mats that are both extra long and extra wide. These are great for tall and/or wide people.
Travel Mats: Made for Going Places
Travel yoga mat dimensions are different because they are made to be portable. They are usually the standard length (68 inches) or a bit longer (71 inches). But they are much thinner.
A common thickness for a travel mat is 1/16 inch (1.5 mm). This thinness makes them very light. It also means you can often fold them instead of just rolling them. Folding makes them fit better in a suitcase or bag.
Because they are so thin, travel mats offer very little cushion. They are mostly for having a non-slip surface wherever you are. You might still feel the hard ground. Some people use a travel mat on top of a regular mat at a studio.
Travel mats are perfect if you travel a lot. Or if you want a super light mat to carry easily.
Deciphering How Thickness Affects Your Practice
We talked about yoga mat thickness already. But let’s think more about how it feels when you practice.
- Thin (1.5mm): Feels almost like the floor. Great for balance. Very light. Not much cushion.
- Standard (3-5mm): Good middle ground. Some cushion for comfort. Still good for balance. Not too heavy. This is why the average yoga mat dimensions often come with this thickness.
- Thick (6mm): More cushion. Better for knees and hips. Can feel less stable in balance poses. Heavier to carry.
- Extra Thick (8mm+): Lots of cushion. Best for very sensitive joints or gentle practices. Hardest for balance. Heaviest and bulkiest.
Think about your body and your yoga. If you have knee pain when kneeling, a thicker mat helps. If you work on handstands, a thinner mat might help you feel the floor. If you just do a bit of everything, a standard thickness is a safe bet.
Considering Other Factors About Size
Size is length, width, and thickness. But there are other things related to size and how a mat feels.
Weight
The weight of a mat comes from its size and material. Thicker and larger mats weigh more. Travel mats (thin) weigh very little. A standard mat weighs about 3-5 pounds. A thick, extra long mat can weigh 7 pounds or more. If you walk to class, weight matters.
Material
The material affects weight and grip. PVC mats are common and durable. Rubber mats offer great grip but can be heavier. TPE mats are lighter and eco-friendly. The material doesn’t change the stated size (inches/cm), but it changes how heavy a mat of that size feels. A rubber extra long mat might be very heavy.
Grip
Good grip keeps your hands and feet from slipping. This is important for safety and doing poses well. The material and texture give grip. Make sure the mat size you pick, combined with the material, feels stable for you. You don’t want your foot to slip off the edge because the mat is too narrow and slippery.
Interpreting Mat Specs When Shopping
When you buy a yoga mat, look at the details. The product description should tell you the size. It will list the yoga mat dimensions inches or yoga mat dimensions cm, or both. It will also tell you the yoga mat thickness, usually in millimeters (mm) or inches.
- Look for “Dimensions:” or “Size:”. It will say something like “68 in x 24 in” or “173 cm x 61 cm”.
- Look for “Thickness:”. It will say something like “4mm” or “1/8 inch”.
Compare these numbers to your needs. Use the yoga mat size chart we looked at. Is it long enough for your height? Is it wide enough for your comfort? Is the thickness right for your joints and balance needs?
Don’t just buy any mat. Check the size. It makes a big difference in how happy you are with your mat.
Comparing Common Mat Dimensions
Let’s compare a few common sizes again.
- Standard (68×24 inches, 173×61 cm): The basic mat. Good for average height, general practice, moderate portability.
- Extra Long (72×24 inches, 183×61 cm): A bit longer for taller people. Same width. Still pretty easy to carry.
- Extra Long (80×24 inches, 203×61 cm): Much longer for very tall people. Same width. A bit heavier.
- Extra Wide (68×26 inches, 173×66 cm): Same length as standard, but wider. Good for more side room. A bit heavier.
- Extra Long & Wide (72×26 inches, 183×66 cm): Longer and wider. More space in all directions. Heavier and bulkier.
- Travel (68×24 inches, 1.5mm thick): Same length/width as standard, but very thin. Light and portable. Less cushion. These are the travel yoga mat dimensions.
Think about where you will use your mat. How tall are you? How much space do you like? How important is it to carry easily? Answering these helps you choose.
Picking Your Perfect Fit
So, how do you find your perfect size mat?
- Measure Your Height: Stand tall. Or lie down on the floor and have someone mark the top of your head and bottom of your feet. Measure the distance. Add 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) to this number. This is the length you should look for in a mat. If you are 5’8″ (68 inches), a 68-inch mat is okay, but 71 or 72 inches might be better. If you are 6’2″ (74 inches), you need at least a 74-inch mat, or even 80 inches.
- Think About Your Width: Do you feel okay with 24 inches? Or do you feel like your arms are always going off the sides? If you want more room, look for 26 inches or wider.
- Feel Your Joints: Do your knees hurt on hard floors? Do your wrists get sore? A thicker mat (6mm or more) will help.
- Plan Your Commute: Will you walk, bike, or take public transport with your mat? A lighter, thinner mat is better. If your mat stays home, weight doesn’t matter as much.
- Consider Your Budget: Extra long and extra wide mats can sometimes cost more than standard ones. Thicker mats also might cost more.
Use the yoga mat size chart and the yoga mat dimensions inches/cm info to compare mats you find online or in stores.
Care For Your Mat, No Matter the Size
Once you pick your mat size, take care of it. This helps it last longer. How you clean it depends on the material. But always roll it up nicely after use. Store it away from direct sun. This keeps your mat in good shape. A well-cared-for mat, no matter its size, is better to practice on.
Frequently Asked Questions About Yoga Mat Sizes
Here are some common questions people ask about how big a yoga mat is.
What is standard yoga mat size?
The standard size is usually 68 inches long and 24 inches wide. In metrics, this is about 173 cm long and 61 cm wide.
What is the average yoga mat dimensions?
The average dimensions are 68 inches by 24 inches, or 173 cm by 61 cm.
How thick should my yoga mat be?
Most people use a mat that is 1/8 inch (3 mm) to 3/16 inch (4-5 mm) thick. If you need more cushion for your joints, choose a thicker mat, like 1/4 inch (6 mm). If you travel or want good balance, a thinner mat (1/16 inch or 1.5 mm) might be better.
Can I use a standard yoga mat if I am tall?
If you are taller than about 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm), a standard 68-inch mat might be too short. Your feet or head could go off the ends. You should look for an extra long yoga mat, like one that is 71, 72, or 80 inches long.
What is an extra long yoga mat?
An extra long yoga mat is longer than the standard 68 inches. They often come in lengths like 71, 72, 74, or 80 inches. They are made for taller people to have enough room on the mat.
What is an extra wide yoga mat?
An extra wide yoga mat is wider than the standard 24 inches. They are usually 26 inches or more wide. They give you more side-to-side space for your hands and feet in poses.
What are travel yoga mat dimensions?
Travel mats are usually standard length (68-71 inches) and width (24 inches), but they are much thinner. A common travel thickness is 1/16 inch (1.5 mm). They are light and often fold up small to fit in luggage easily.
Do yoga mat dimensions inches match yoga mat dimensions cm?
Yes, they are just different ways to measure the same size. 68 inches is about the same as 173 cm. 24 inches is about the same as 61 cm.
Is yoga mat thickness part of the size?
Yes, thickness is an important part of the overall size and feel of the mat. It affects cushion, weight, and how big the mat is when rolled up.
Summing Up Mat Size
Finding the right size yoga mat makes a big difference in your practice. Think about your height for the length. Think about your comfort for the width. Think about your joints and balance for the thickness. Use the standard yoga mat size as a starting point, then look at extra long, extra wide, or travel yoga mat dimensions based on your needs. Checking the yoga mat dimensions inches, yoga mat dimensions cm, and yoga mat thickness listed on the mat helps you choose well. Use a yoga mat size chart to compare options. With the right size mat, you can focus on your yoga, not on whether your toes are on the cold floor!