More and more people are ditching the traditional gym for home workouts these days. Whether it’s the lingering effects of the pandemic, saving a few quid on gym memberships, or simply enjoying a more flexible workout schedule, working out at home has its perks.
But let’s be honest, one of the biggest hurdles is setting up the right space with the proper equipment. That’s where jigsaw interlocking mats come into play. These versatile home gym mats are a game-changer for your home fitness setup. Let’s dive into why jigsaw mats might just be the perfect addition to your home gym.
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What Are Jigsaw Mats?
So, what exactly are jigsaw mats? Think of them as interlocking puzzle pieces made from foam or rubber. These mats aren’t just for protecting your floors—they’re perfect for a wide range of activities, from HIIT workouts and Pilates to strength routines and cardio sessions. The cushioning they provide helps protect your body from injuries and keeps your workout space comfortable. Plus, they’re a breeze to clean and disinfect, ensuring your workout area stays hygienic.
But jigsaw mats aren’t just for fitness. They’re super versatile. Use them in kids’ play areas, for martial arts training, or even in your home office to add a bit of extra padding. If you need a multi-purpose flooring solution that you can easily install yourself, jigsaw mats are definitely worth considering.
Main Types of Jigsaw Interlocking Mats
Foam Jigsaw Mats
Foam jigsaw mats are soft, resilient, and perfect for installing DIY. They come in a puzzle tile format that slots together effortlessly. These mats are ideal for light to medium fitness activities, providing excellent protection and support. Whether you’re into martial arts, boxing, or general fitness, foam mats offer a slip-resistant surface with a basketweave grid for great traction. They’re available in reversible colours, making them easy to clean and maintain while adding a pop of colour to your workout space.
Rubber Jigsaw Mats
If you need something sturdier, rubber jigsaw mats are your go-to. Like foam mats, they connect like puzzle pieces but come in various sizes and thicknesses, typically ranging from 6mm to 10mm. The flecked colour options add a stylish touch to your gym while providing excellent support for gym equipment and light to medium weight training. Rubber mats are incredibly durable, making them perfect for high-traffic areas and intense workout sessions.
Alternative Interlocking Gym Tiles
Looking for something a bit different? There are alternative interlocking gym tiles that might suit your needs even better:
- Konnecta Interlocking Tiles: These self-locking gym tiles come with connection pieces that are inserted underneath each tile, offering enhanced stability. The straight edges give your floor a sleek, professional look while ensuring each tile stays firmly in place during your workouts. Plus, they come in a range of different designs.
- Standard Square Shape Tiles: These classic square gym tiles feature pins that connect each tile side by side, creating a seamless and sturdy workout surface. They’re easy to install and perfect for creating a customised gym floor that can handle all your fitness routines.
Benefits of Using Jigsaw Interlocking Mats for At-Home Workouts
If you’re considering setting up a home gym, jigsaw interlocking mats are worth a look. Here’s why:
1. Proper Support & Safety
One of the biggest perks of jigsaw mats is the support they provide. Designed to absorb impact, these mats protect your floors and reduce the risk of injury. The slip-resistant surface means you can focus on your workout without worrying about losing your balance.
2. Versatility
Jigsaw mats are incredibly versatile. Whether you’re into weightlifting, or even martial arts, these mats can handle it all. If you like switching up your workout routine, jigsaw mats are the perfect fit for your specific fitness needs.
3. Durable and Long-Lasting
Investing in jigsaw mats means investing in durability. These mats are built to withstand heavy use and intense workouts. Resistant to fading and staining, they’ll look great and perform well for years to come.
4. Easy to Set Up and Use
Setting up your home gym shouldn’t be a hassle, and jigsaw mats make it easy. They come in standard sizes, so no measuring or cutting required. Simply push the tiles together like a puzzle, and you’re good to go. No tools or adhesives needed.
5. Affordable
Let’s face it, gym memberships and equipment can be pricey. Jigsaw mats offer a budget-friendly flooring solution that doesn’t skimp on quality. You can create a professional-looking gym space without spending a lot of money.
Workout Ideas to Get You Started
Ready to make the most of your jigsaw mats? Here are three workout ideas to kickstart your home fitness journey:
- Interval Training - Interval training is fantastic for boosting your heart rate and burning calories. Set a timer for one minute and perform as many reps of an exercise as you can within that time. Take a 30-second break, then repeat for four rounds. Exercises like jump squats, lunges, push-ups, and sit-ups work perfectly on jigsaw mats.
- HIIT Workouts - High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is all the rage for a reason—it’s quick and super effective. Choose four bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, push-ups, and sit-ups. Set your timer for 30 seconds per exercise, performing as many reps as possible before moving to the next. After completing all four, rest for a minute and repeat the circuit twice for an intense workout.
- Strength Training - Strength training is essential for everyone, not just bodybuilders. It helps improve bone density, increase muscle mass, and boost metabolism. You don’t need fancy equipment—just some dumbbells or weight plates. Try weighted lunges, squats and planks. To up the challenge, add in plyometric moves like jump squats or box jumps at the end of your session.
How to Set Up Your Own Home Gym with Jigsaw Mats
Creating your home gym with jigsaw mats is straightforward. Here’s how:
1. Choose the Right Thickness: Pick a mat that’s thick enough to protect your flooring and provide comfort. A thickness of 6mm is suitable for light workouts but opt for thicker options to support weight based training.
2. Size Matters: Ensure your mat covers enough space for your workouts. You should have plenty of room to move around and perform all your exercises comfortably. Make sure to measure your room accurately.
Top Tip
"Always include for 10% of waste when you calculate your room size, that way you can ensure you have enough tiles to fit the whole space"
(Greg Wilson - Sprung Sales Advisor)
3. Style It Up: Select a colour and style that you love. With so many options available, you can customise your gym floor to match your personality and décor.
How to Clean Your Jigsaw Gym Mats
FAQs About Jigsaw Mats
What are jigsaw mats made of?
Jigsaw mats are typically made from foam, rubber, or a combination of both. Foam mats are softer and more cushioned, while rubber mats offer greater durability and protection, especially for weight training.
How thick should jigsaw mats be?
Thickness varies depending on your needs. Rubber jigsaw mats usually range between 6mm and 10mm, whereas foam mats can be 20mm to 40mm thick. For a thicker tile range, opt for PRO Gym Tiles which offer 11mm to 63mm.
Where do you use a jigsaw mat?
They’re versatile! Use them in a home gym, commercial gym space, a kid's playroom or a fitness studio.
Can I wash my jigsaw mat?
Absolutely! Most jigsaw mats can be cleaned with soap and water. Just avoid harsh cleaners or vigorous scrubbing to keep them in top condition.
How long do jigsaw mats last?
With proper care, jigsaw mats can last for many years. Regular use may require you to replace them sooner, but they’re built to withstand the rigours of daily workouts.
Final Thoughts
Jigsaw mats are a fantastic investment for anyone looking to create a safe, effective, and stylish at-home workout space. They offer a stable, slip-resistant surface that protects your floors and reduces noise—perfect for apartments or shared living spaces. Plus, their versatility means they can handle anything from yoga to weightlifting. With all these benefits, it’s no wonder jigsaw mats are a top choice for home gym flooring.
Ready to Upgrade Your Home Gym? Check out our range of high-quality jigsaw interlocking mats and find the perfect fit for your workout space.
