When it comes to working out and staying in shape, there are a lot of different options to choose from. You can go for a run, lift weights, or take a yoga class. But one type of exercise that is often overlooked is wrestling.
Wrestling is a great workout because it uses every muscle in your body. It's also a sport that requires split-second decisions and quick reflexes. If you're looking for a challenging and fun workout, then wrestling is the perfect option for you.
But to reap all of the benefits that wrestling offers, you need to make sure you have high-quality wrestling mats. In this article, we'll discuss why quality mats are so important and where you can find the best ones.
What Exactly are Wrestling Mats?
Wrestling mats are thick, cushioned mats or tiles that are used for the sport of wrestling. They typically have a smooth surface and can be made from a variety of materials, including foam, vinyl, or carpet.
A wrestling mat typically comes in standard sizes, such as 14x14 feet or 16x16 feet, and can be found in a variety of colours and thicknesses, usually 20mm and 40mm.
Wrestling mats are also used in other sports, such as gymnastics, cheerleading, martial arts and boxing because the foam or vinyl mats provide excellent cushioning and protection from these types of activities. They can also be used for exercise or play in a home or gym setting.
Roll out mats are a type of wrestling mat that can be easily stored and transported. These are particularly good for gymnastic activities because they come in longer lengths for tumbling and performing.
Why are Quality Mats Important?
The quality of your training wrestling mats can greatly impact your safety, performance, and overall experience.
Olympic wrestling is not a contact sport but rather combat submission wrestling. This means that wrestlers are constantly trying to take each other down without the use of impactful strikes. Because of this, the quality of your wrestling mats is important for a number of reasons.
Here are a few reasons why it's important to invest in high-quality mats:
1. Offers great protection and comfort
When you're engaged in a wrestling match, the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not your mat is going to hold up. That's why it's important to invest in quality mats that are designed to withstand punishment. Cheap mats are more likely to tear, which can result in serious injury.
In addition to being durable, quality mats also offer more comfort than their cheaper counterparts. This is important because you want to be able to focus on your match, not on the pain caused by a subpar mat. Quality mats are also more slip-resistant, which means that you're less likely to suffer a serious injury if you take a spill. Home wrestling mats are constructed with thicker foam, which provides a softer landing and helps to prevent injuries as well as friction-burn.
2. Helps improve your performance
The quality of your wrestling mats can directly impact your performance. Cheaper mats are often made from inferior materials that don't provide the same level of traction as quality mats. This can make it difficult to get a good grip on your opponent, which can lead to frustration and, ultimately, a loss. In addition, catch wrestling training constructed with better materials can help you move more freely, leading to improved performance.
Quality mats also tend to be more comfortable, which means that you'll be able to focus on your match without being distracted by pain or discomfort. This can lead to improved concentration and ultimately, better results.
3. Provides a better overall experience
Investing in quality wrestling mats can provide several benefits that go beyond simply improving your performance. Only exact matches that are designed specifically for the sport can provide the correct level of shock absorption to help prevent injuries.
In addition, quality mats are more durable and easier to clean, which means that you'll be able to enjoy your investment for many years to come.
4. Increases the value of your training
As a wrestler, you know that your training is only as good as the mats you train on. If you want to be the best that you can be, it's important to invest in quality mats. Not only will this help to improve your performance, but it will also add value to your training.
This is because quality mats are designed to last, which means that you'll be able to get more use out of them.
In addition, training on quality mats can help you avoid injuries, which means you'll be able to train for longer periods without having to take a break. This is valuable because it allows you to continue improving your skills and becoming the best wrestler that you can be.
5. Gives you a competitive edge
If you're serious about wrestling, then you know that every little bit counts. When you train on quality mats, you'll be giving yourself a competitive edge that can help you to win matches. This is because quality mats provide the ideal surface for wrestling, which can help you to perform at your best.
In addition, training on quality mats can help to improve your speed, power, and agility. This is because the mats are designed to provide the ideal level of traction, which can help you move more quickly and precisely. When you have a competitive edge, winning matches and achieving your goals is easier.
How to Choose the Right Wrestling Mats for Your Needs
When looking for quality wrestling mats, it's important to consider a few factors to find the best possible product for your needs.
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Size: You'll want to make sure you choose mats that are the right size for your needs.
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Thickness: Thicker mats will provide more cushioning and protection, while thinner mats may be more versatile and easier to transport.
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Material: Wrestling mats are typically made from either foam or rubber.
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Colour: Most wrestling mats are available in a variety of colours or are double-sided meaning you can reverse your colour.
Once you've considered all of these factors, you'll be able to choose the right wrestling mats for your needs.
Wrestling Mat Care and Maintenance
Wrestling mats are an important investment for any wrestling program. They provide a safe and stable surface for wrestlers to train and compete on, and they also play a crucial role in protecting athletes from serious injuries.
However, like any other athletic equipment, wrestling mats need to be properly cared for and maintained to stay in good condition. Here are a few tips on how to keep your wrestling mats in top shape:
- Clean regularly: Sweeping or vacuuming the mats regularly will help remove dirt, dust, and other debris that can accumulate over time.
- Inspect regularly: It’s important to inspect the mats regularly for any rips, tears, or other damage. If you notice any damage, be sure to repair it as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
- Store properly: When not in use, be sure to store the mats in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposure to sunlight or extreme temperatures, as this can damage the mat material.
Investing in quality mats is important, but it’s also important to take care of them to continue providing a safe and stable surface for wrestlers. By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your wrestling mats will last for many years.
FAQs About Wrestling Mats
How thick should wrestling mats be?
The standard sizes of foam Wrestling Mats are 20mm and 40mm.
What is the difference between a wrestling mat and a tumbling mat?
A wrestling mat is thicker and more durable than a tumbling mat. Tumbling mats are typically thinner and designed for lighter use, such as gymnastics or cheerleading. Gymnasts may also use Crash Mats which are large inflatable landing platforms for tumbling. Wrestling mats must be able to withstand heavy use and repeated impact, so they are made of thicker and more durable materials.
What is a good size wrestling mat?
The size of the wrestling mat will depend on the needs of the wrestler and the intended space. If you train in a studio or gym, you may want larger mats permanently fitted whereas some users may require smaller, more temporary mats for moving around.
What is the best material for wrestling mats?
Wrestling mats are typically made from either foam or a mix of foam and vinyl/PVC. Foam is the most resilient and tends to protect the body much better than the latter.
How often should wrestling mats be cleaned?
Wrestling mats should be cleaned on a regular basis, especially if they are being used frequently. If the mats are not properly cleaned, they can become breeding grounds for bacteria and other microorganisms.
Conclusion
When it comes to wrestling mats, quality is important. Cheap mats may seem like a good idea initially, but they simply can't match the benefits of quality mats. If you're serious about your training, it's important to invest in quality mats that will help you to improve your performance, avoid injuries, and add value to your training.
If you're looking for high-quality wrestling mats, be sure to check out our selection at Sprung Gym Flooring. We offer a variety of matting options to suit your needs, and our team is always available to help you choose the right mats for your training. Contact us today to learn more.
