Benefits of Gardening As Exercise

Yard work is a great way to stay active. Digging, raking, and mowing are all calorie-intense exercises that burn calories just like doing cardio at the gym.

It also helps lower blood pressure, improve heart health and strengthen bones. It can reduce stress, depression and anxiety and increase a person’s sense of well-being.

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A quality yoga mat is imperative, whether you’re a casual yogi or an expert in mat Pilates. Similar to investing in key wardrobe staples, like coats and work bags, investing in a yoga mat can further your practice and protect your body to get the ultimate results. So, instead of going to your nearest T.J. Maxx and settling for the first one you find (no shame!), we spoke to the experts to find out what are the best yoga mats on the market.

The main aspects to consider when choosing one is thickness and durability. For New York Pilates founder Heather Andersen, thickness is one of the most important aspects, especially if you plan to use the mat for Pilates instead of yoga. “The reason you’ll want a thicker mat for Pilates is because it is a very core-focused workout where you’re often laying on your back. The extra cushion provided by a thicker mat makes it more comfortable for your tailbone, spine, and pelvis,” Andersen shares. The thickness of the mat also contributes to its durability, since its thickness will help withstand wear and tear. You just have to make sure it’s thin enough to roll up easily. Thankfully, there’s a huge range of different thicknesses out there that are used for both yoga and Pilates.

Often! As in, after every use. Wiping your mat down after every use is key to longevity. Y7 founder Sarah Larson Levey uses a vinegar-and-witch-hazel mix (1:4 ratio) with a couple drops of tea-tree oil in a spray bottle and cleans her mat with it. Larson also suggests storing the mat out of sunlight to extend its wear.

This mat from Lululemon is Levey’s favorite because it’s light and has a nice texture. “[It] has a good amount of cushion for a lightweight mat. Plus, it’s easy to clean,” she says. For hot yoga, she loves to add in a towel from Manduka for extra grip and to collect sweat.

Andersen’s favorite thick mat is this one from Solana. It’s available in more than ten colors and in a one-inch thickness for the ultimate foam cushion for all your joints and muscles.

Content creator (and yoga and Pilates enthusiast) Tyra Booker loves the Alo Yoga Warrior mat beyond its aesthetics. “It’s slip-free and super roomy,” Booker shares. Cushioned but light, this mat is also 100 percent formaldehyde- and PVC-free, for an anti-odor, slip-free practice.

The fan-favorite warrior mat also comes in a chakra-alignment option, which is a favorite for many yoga instructors like Tochi Anueyiagu. “I find that a nice thick, grippy mat allows me to stretch out even more, especially in Downward Dog. Additionally, the lines on it are great guides for alignment and foot placement,” she says.

Pilates instructor (and Love Is Blind Star) Raven Ross loves the Bala mat in blush. “It’s still soft and squishy for knees and other boney parts that need extra support,” she says. Plus, Ross usually uses the mat while wearing shoes and can vouch for its durability and sturdiness. I’ve also used this mat, and I’m quite a fan of the feel and the fun portal shape.

Manduka is one of the most popular yoga brands out there, and its Eko mat is a must-have for any yogi. The mat is light and durable, 99 percent latex-free, and biodegradable. It also comes in a long option for the taller people out there.

Another favorite of Anueyiagu? This reversible mat from Lululemon. “I love that this mat has two sides to it. It’s springy and grippy, which is great for my practice,” she says. “Another benefit is that it’s made of antimicrobial rubber, which makes keeping it clean a breeze.”

Writer Maggie Lange wrote a whole story about how much she loves this cork yoga mat, so of course we had to include it. Not only is this mat made from a 100 percent cork top that is ecofriendly and latex-free (most yoga mats are not), but it’s still a durable, grippy option for any and all yoga practices.

Last year, Miu Miu released a sports capsule that includes some of the dreamiest products on the market, including this yoga mat. Normally retailing over $1,000, it’s now on sale at SSENSE and includes a nylon harness with detachable Miu Miu shoulder strap.

These mats from Jollie are not only adorable for your adult self, but they come in a child size so you can take up a hobby alongside the kids in your life. A favorite of fitness trainer Megan Roup, the plush mats enhance the mission behind Jollie, which includes providing motherhood-driven products and continuing to give back to cancer treatment and the environment through its products.

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