Martial Arts Mats 101: The Key to Injury-Free Training

Whether you’re a seasoned martial artist or just starting out, one thing is clear: the right mat can make all the difference. Martial arts mats are not just for creating a soft landing; they’re crucial for safety and effectiveness of your training.

Let's get into the world of martial arts mats and explore their importance, the different types available and how to choose the best one for your training space or studio.

Table of Contents

What Are Martial Arts Mats and why are they important?

Martial arts mats are specialised surfaces designed to absorb impact and provide a safe, stable area to train. These mats are key to preventing injuries and allow practitioners to perform at their best. From traditional styles like Karate and Judo to modern mixed martial arts (MMA), each style has its own requirements that affect the choice of matting.

Joe Hyams (Fightology) describes a martial arts training space as a 'minature cosmos' which aids in continual growth and that starts at the very foundation on which you practice.

Materials Used in Martial Arts Mats

Martial arts mats are made from various materials, each with its own benefits:

• EVA Foam: Lightweight and a great shock-absorber, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam is a popular choice for training areas. It’s durable and provides a firm yet cushioned surface. It's high density, open cell foam core protects against injury during intense Martial Arts training.
• Vinyl: Used as a cover for foam mats, vinyl is easy to clean and resistant to mildew and fungi, perfect for high-humidity environments.
• PVC: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) mats are similar to vinyl but have a different texture and flexibility, often chosen for its longevity and ease of maintenance.
• Rubber: Great traction and shock absorption, rubber mats are used in combat sports gyms where grip and stability are key.

Types of Martial Arts Mats

The mat choice depends on the martial art and the activity:

• Interlocking Mats: Interlocking foam mats with a puzzle profile are versatile and easy to install, suitable for various spaces and styles.
• Roll-Out Matting: Convenient for temporary or mobile training areas, roll-out mats offer a smooth surface and are quick to lay out and pack up.
• Crash Mats: Thicker and designed for high-impact falls, crash mats are essential in disciplines like Judo and Aikido where throws are frequent.
• Combat Mats: Designed for combat sports, with extra cushioning and durability to withstand intense activity.

How to Choose the Right Martial Arts Mat

When choosing a mat, consider the style you practice:

• Karate: Typically trained on firmer mats for quick movements and stability.
• Taekwondo: Similar to Karate, slightly softer surfaces due to high kicking and jumping.
• Judo: Thicker, more absorbent mats for safe throws and takedowns.
• MMA: A combination of thickness and firmness for striking and grappling.

Mats come in various sizes, shapes, thicknesses and colours so you can customise to your preference and the training space.

Here is a detailed guide on what to look for in Martial Arts Mats:

Benefits of Good Martial Arts Matting

Investing in good mats for martial arts training has many benefits:

1. Safety: Reduces the risk of injuries by cushioning falls and impacts.
2. Performance: Enhances performance by providing a stable surface for the specific martial arts techniques.
3. Hygiene: Many mats are easy to clean and antimicrobial, keeping the training environment healthy.
4. Longevity: Durable materials and construction means a good mat can last for years, making it a wise investment.

Conclusion

In summary, the right martial arts mat is as important as any training gear. It protects you, enhances your skills and can even boost your confidence knowing you can train safely and effectively.

Whether you’re training in Judo, Karate or any other martial art, consider the floor beneath you as your foundation—choose wisely and it will support every step of your martial arts journey.

Looking to upgrade your Martial Arts Studio?  Explore our wide range of Judo mats and Dojo Mats for the perfect match.

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