The #1 Question I am Asked….
Is answered!
The number one question I am asked is about the mat I film all of my classes on. It is amazing and is a mat made specifically for pilates workouts. It is firm so it is supportive but also has good cushion for all of your parts. It has a strap which can be great for opposition/support when doing things like the roll up, tree, etc. It has handles which you can do amazing shoulder opening/strengthening with, etc. The best part is that it folds in half so it’s easy to store. This is a custom as well as hand made piece of equipment so that does mean it takes some time and money to procure. But like anything in the wellness space if you invest now, you’ll save yourself money later. So if you are committed to your pilates practice, here are some links to different places that sell this mat. It is well worth it let me tell you!
What’s the deal with the dowels (handles) and strap?
The dowels (wooden handles) are amazing for assisting in chest opening, feedback, and helping to engage your muscles in your body better. In this photo here they gave me leverage to lift my hips but also are opening my shoulders. This kind of work and feedback feels amazing. There is also a strap that is great for support when doing things like the roll up, tree, neck pull, etc. It will help keep your legs anchored but also give you amazing opposition and therefore more length in your body. If you struggle with these rolling exercises using this strap will be a game changer for you.
A few things to note as you continue reading:
I am not affiliated with any of these companies. I don’t make a commission off these recommendations and I also can’t make any promises on their behalf!
Most brands are very behind in their production so some of these may take up to 40 weeks to be made - you should find this out before you place your order to manage your expectations.
The shipping can be a big cost - find out what it is before you order. Depending on where you live, you might be able to pick it up and save yourself some money!
While all of these brands are reputable, I have only consistently worked with 2 of them so I cannot vouch for this mat made by others but can tell you that all of these are reputable companies that I feel comfortable to recommend here.
Gratz is my favorite pilates equipment manufacteror. At the moment, I think they are also the most behind. They are based out of Philadelphia and have about a 36-40 week wait for most items that aren’t props. So if you are willing to wait, this would be my suggestion for any pilates equipment - this mat and more!
Pilates Designs makes the mat I have. I ordered it from them because their wait times at the beginning of the pandemic were a little less and their version is slightly cheaper! The main reason I prefer Gratz over Pilates Designs is for their springs. Since this doesn’t have springs I was more than happy to order this with them. They are also out of Long Island City so I can easily pick up items from them and therefore don’t have to pay for shipping. In addition to this mat I have their small arc barrel and love it.
Balanced Body has been around for a long time. I know them to be consistent in their products and offer different levels of products that therefore offer different levels of pricing. This being said, I do not see different options for their mat. I personally do not own anything by them aside from their circles but do have clients who have various forms of their equipment and have been satisfied. If you are interested in their mats be sure to find out their lead times and shipping costs in advance!
I have heard great things about Legacy Pilates. I have also heard their wait times are very low compared to others. They are based out of Turkey and are great at getting back to you on info. I have not ordered from them but have friends who have and they have great things to say from the quality to their customer service. If you do decide to order from them be sure to ask about shipping since it very well may be coming to you from overseas (unless you live near or in Turkey!)
If after reading all of this you’re not ready to pull the plug on a true pilates mat, don’t sweat! What’s most important is that you’re moving your body - making it stronger, more mobile and feeling better! If you’d like a more supportive mat that will get to you fast and still support your spine, I recommend this mat instead!