Gymnastics is a sport that is as beautiful as it is demanding. Athletes demonstrate incredible feats of strength, agility, and balance, often leaving spectators in awe. For such performances, the foundation – quite literally – is the floor. Choosing the right flooring for gymnastics is not just about aesthetics or cost, but primarily about safety and functionality.
In this guide, we’ll delve deep into the best flooring options for gymnastics, discussing their features, benefits, and potential drawbacks.
1. Roll Out Mats
Carpet Top Roll Out Mats:
- Pros:
- Feel and Grip: They offer a plush feel underfoot which can be good for athletes who prefer a slightly more absorbent surface. Plus, the carpet provides a good grip, reducing the risk of slips.
- Portability: These can be rolled up, making them excellent for gyms or spaces that need to be versatile in their use.
- Durability: A good-quality carpet top mat can withstand rigorous gymnastic activities without showing signs of wear quickly.
- They are made from XPE or cross linked polyethylene which creates a mesh like trampolining effect on the surface, this increases the bounce of the mat which is particularly advatageous for gymnastics.
- XPE is non smell and lighter so easier to transport and wont make your eyes water when new!
- Cons:
- Maintenance: They require regular cleaning as they can trap dust and sweat. Smooth and tatami options are available with varying degrees of grip.
Jigsaw Mats (40mm Tatami):
- Pros:
- Interlock System: This feature ensures that the mats don’t separate during activity, providing a consistent surface.
- Shock Absorption: The 40mm thickness is perfect for activities that require cushioning and can help in reducing the impact on joints.
- Versatility: Suitable for various activities, including martial arts, making them an excellent choice for multi-purpose gyms.
- Cons:
- Harder Surface: They might not offer as much softness as other mat types.
2. Exercise Mats
Foldable Mats:
- Pros:
- Portability: As the name suggests, these mats can be folded, making them easy to transport and store.
- Variety: Available in various thicknesses and sizes, catering to different gymnastic needs.
- Durable: Made with rugged materials designed to take a beating.
- Cons:
- Seams: The folding nature means they have seams, which can sometimes be a tripping hazard if not laid out flat.
3. Air Track Mats:
- Pros:
- Adjustable Firmness: One of their standout features. Athletes can adjust the air pressure to get the desired firmness, allowing for a personalized training experience.
- Safety: Offers excellent cushioning, especially for high-impact moves.
- Portability: When deflated, they’re relatively easy to store and transport.
- Cons:
- Setup Time: Pumping them up can take a while, especially for larger mats.
- Risk of Punctures: Although they’re made of durable materials, sharp objects can puncture them.
4. Other Popular Choices:
Spring Floors:
- Pros:
- High Bounce: Preferred for competitions, these floors offer a significant amount of bounce, aiding athletes in performing high jumps and flips.
- Professional Feel: Often used in professional settings, they offer athletes a consistent training surface.
- Cons:
- Cost: They are among the pricier options.
- Permanent: These are not portable and are more or less a permanent fixture in a gym.
Foam Flooring:
- Pros:
- Softness: Offers good cushioning.
- Versatility: Can be used in various fitness activities.
- Cons:
- Durability: Might not be as long-lasting as other, harder surfaces.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right flooring for gymnastics is a nuanced decision that hinges on multiple factors, including the type of activities, level of athletes (beginner vs. advanced), budget, and whether the space needs to serve multiple purposes.
For professional gyms aiming for high-level competitions, spring floors are almost a standard. For home gymnastics or multi-purpose spaces, roll-out mats like carpet top or jigsaw mats provide a good balance between cost, durability, and functionality. If flexibility is the goal, then foldable mats and air track mats offer portability without compromising on safety.
Remember, a gymnast’s performance and safety are directly influenced by the flooring beneath them. Investing in good-quality flooring not only safeguards athletes but also ensures longevity, making it a win-win in the long run. Always consider consulting with experts and, if possible, testing the flooring options before making a final decision. Jigsaw and roll out mats samples are available on request.
