If you’re a BJJ practitioner you know that having the right mat is key. Not only do good mats protect your body from injury but also provide the traction and cushioning to keep you agile during training.
In this article we’ll go over what BJJ mats are, the different types available, why they’re important for home and academy training and how to care for them.
Table of Contents
What Are BJJ Mats?
BJJ mats, also known as tatami or interlocking foam mats, are the foundation of any martial arts space. They provide a safe, cushioned surface for takedowns, throws and high impact movements. In addition to protecting the practitioner they also protect your flooring from scratches and damage caused by the intensity of BJJ training.
Types of BJJ Mats
There are many types of BJJ mats, each with its own benefits:
- Folding Mats: Great for those who travel or need a temporary set up. While they are robust they can be more expensive and require storage space.
- Smooth Mats: Perfect for partner drills, these mats offer a smooth surface that enhances movement.
- Puzzle Mats: With their interlocking design these provide a traditional training feel and are easy to install.
- Tatami Mats: Known for their resilient yet forgiving surface tatami mats reduce impact and protect joints during intense training. They also provide a slip resistant surface with plenty of traction and foot control.
- Roll-out Mats: These are very portable and great for events or competitions but require more storage space when not in use.
Many of these mats have special linking systems that allow you to connect multiple pieces to create a customised training area to suit your needs.
Why BJJ Mats are Important
BJJ mats are not a luxury they’re a necessity for anyone practicing martial arts. A good mat provides:
- Safety: Quality mats offer great shock absorption minimising the risk of injury during falls and high impact movements.
- Comfort: A cushioned surface protects vulnerable areas like the knees so you can focus on perfecting your technique. The softer surface also protects against friction burn.
- Versatility: Many mats are designed to be used for multiple activities and different martial arts disciplines. From intense sparring to HIIT workouts, a good mat can support a wide range of exercises and activities.
- Hygienic Training Space: Eva foam mats are easy to clean and keep sanitary
Why Invest in a Good BJJ Mat
Whether you’re new to BJJ or an experienced practitioner a good mat can make all the difference. Here’s why:
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Prevents Injuries: A protective mat provides extra cushioning and anti-fatigue support reducing the risk of injury during falls or hard contact.
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Improves Comfort: Training on a well designed surface lessens the strain on your body particularly on joints and knees which is crucial for long training sessions.
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Versatile Use: Beyond martial arts many BJJ mats can double as spaces for yoga, stretching or meditation making them a smart addition to any fitness setup.
What Should I Look for in a Martial Arts Mat?
How to Take Care of Your BJJ Mats
To ensure your BJJ Mats stay performing well, it's important to look after them. Here's a few tips on maintenance:
Conclusion
Picking a good BJJ mat is an investment in your safety and training. Whether you’re setting up a home gym or designing a BJJ facility, choosing a good quality training surface is key to getting the most out of the sport you love.
Looking for high performance MMA Mats? Browse our popular range for your training space.
