outdoor exercise mat

Enjoy Family Workouts in Nature with a Portable Exercise Mat

Going outside for exercise is great for the whole family. The fresh air lifts your mood, sunlight provides vitamin D, and changing up your workout location keeps things exciting. But traditional outdoor workouts can be uncomfortable and unsafe without a cushioned, grippy surface underneath you. That's where a portable, outdoor exercise mat comes in handy!

The Benefits of Exercising Outdoors as a Family:

• Explore new parks, trails, beaches or your own backyard while getting fit together. It feels more like an adventure than a routine workout.

• Being surrounded by nature relieves stress and helps you feel more relaxed during and after exercise. 

• Outdoor workouts encourage kids to enjoy being active and make exercise seem more fun.

• Varying your workout environment keeps things interesting and provides more mental benefits than repeating the same indoor workout.

How to Choos the Right Outdoor Exercise Mat:

Look for a mat made from durable, weather-resistant materials like PVC or TPE foam. It should provide enough cushioning for joints but still be firm enough for stability during balance poses. A textured surface will prevent sliding on grass or dirt.The mat should roll up tightly for easy transport to parks or outdoor workout spots. Carrying straps are useful too.

Here are some tips for choosing the right outdoor exercise mat:

Material

Look for durable PVC or TPE foam that is weather resistant. This will hold up well when exposed to sun, rain, dirt etc. 
Avoid thinner or cheaper materials like EVA foam that may breakdown quicker outdoors.

Cushioning   

The mat should have enough cushioning to support joints and bones during yoga, Pilates, etc. 
However, it still needs to be firm enough to provide stability for exercises where balance is important. Around 1/4 to 1/2 inch thickness is ideal.

Texture 

A textured or grooved surface will prevent sliding on grass, dirt, or gravel. This is key for maintaining proper positioning. 
Some mats also have moisture-wicking tops to avoid getting soggy if exercising on damp ground.

Portability

Make sure the mat can roll or fold up tightly for easy transport to the park or beach. 
Look for a lightweight mat (2-5 lbs). Some have straps or handles for easier carrying.
Size

Standard sizes are 24 x 68 inches but you can also find larger or smaller mats. 

If doing yoga, get a long enough mat to accommodate your height during poses. 

Consider getting kid-sized mats for younger family members.

With the right outdoor exercise mat that suits your workout needs, you’ll be ready to take your fitness routine outdoors!

Using Your Outdoor Mat for Family Workouts:

• Unroll the mats and get moving with yoga, stretching, bodyweight exercises and more.

• Make sure kids' mats are sized appropriately for their bodies. 

• Try fitness challenges like seeing who can hold a plank the longest. 

• Incorporate outdoor elements by doing push-ups on the mat then jumping up to touch a tree branch.

• Let the kids get creative and make up their own outdoor obstacle courses or circuits.

Bond with your family while improving your fitness and mental health. An outdoor exercise mat makes it fun and comfortable for the whole crew!