Do I really need a yoga mat? Can I just use a towel or practice directly on the floor instead?
A yoga mat is designed to cushion your joints and spine during practice of yoga poses, provide a hygienic barrier between you and the floor, and prevent you from slipping. Therefore, if yoga mats are not available at the class or event you wish to attend, please bring your own.
I don’t have a yoga mat. Can I buy or rent a yoga mat?
This depends on the venue. When the venue is a fully equipped yoga studio or fitness club, there are usually yoga mats available for purchase or rental. Yoga mat rental is free in some venues and is charged in others (average 300 yen). When the venue is a community hall, a retreat center, or other such general-purpose facility, you will probably need to bring your own yoga mat. When in doubt, please contact the class or event organizer directly.
Is an exercise mat ok, or must I use a yoga mat?
Exercise mats and yoga mats are designed for different purposes. A yoga mat provides you with the best experience for yoga.
My yoga mat gets slippery when I sweat.
If you find your mat gets slippery when you sweat, I recommend getting a YogiToes Skidless mat cover, which is available from retailers that carry yoga gear including Amazon.co.jp, Ebay, Tokyu Hands and Rakuten.
Where can I get a yoga mat? How much do they cost?
Most shops that carry sports goods will stock yoga mats. The cheapest ones are just 1,500 yen and available from Donki, but they won’t last so long if you practice regularly. You can buy a variety of mats from any retailer that stocks sports or exercise goods. You can also order a yoga mat from online retailers such as Amazon.co.jp.
Other FAQs
Below are links to other categories of frequently asked questions.
Yoga Classes
New to yoga? You just might find the answer to your questions here!
HelloYoga.com
Questions about this website.
