Struggling with balance during yoga? An orthopaedic surgeon says an anti-slip yoga mat can improve safety and stability

Frequent tripping and slipping during exercise can cause strains and injuries? Here’s why anti-slip yoga mats are essential.

Can't make balance during yoga? The anti-slip mat can help prevent it (Freepik)

By Ishika Narang

Ishika Narang is a Multimedia Writer at the Hindustan Times, with over three years of experience in digital journalism, specialising in health, lifestyle, beauty, and consumer-focused reporting. Her primary coverage areas include evidence-based health journalism, preventive care, wellness trends, and affiliate-driven consumer guides tailored for digital audiences. She began her professional journey in digital media, where she developed expertise in multimedia storytelling and platform-optimised editorial strategies. Over the years, she has worked with reputed organisations such as Park+, Jagran, and Wavel.ai, steadily building credibility in health and consumer journalism. Her work reflects a strong progression in editorial responsibility, combining research-backed reporting with audience-focused content formats. At Hindustan Times, she produces in-depth health and lifestyle features, expert-led explainers, and data-informed consumer stories. She also focuses extensively on affiliate articles, creating well-researched buying guides, product comparisons, and recommendation-based content that balances commercial intent with editorial integrity. Alongside writing, she conceptualises and manages social media storytelling, ensuring content is informative, engaging, and optimised for platform-specific consumption. Her subject expertise includes preventive healthcare, nutrition, supplements, women’s health, beauty trends, consumer awareness, and affiliate commerce content. She integrates expert consultations, peer-reviewed research, verified product analysis, and transparent sourcing. Her strengths lie in evidence-based storytelling, simplifying complex information, and producing reader-first affiliate content that prioritises trust and value. Ishika holds a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) in Marketing from Guru Gobind Indraprastha University, which enhances her understanding of consumer behaviour, digital commerce, and audience engagement, skills that complement her specialisation in consumer and affiliate journalism. She is committed to ethical reporting, transparent affiliate disclosures, rigorous fact-checking, and maintaining editorial credibility, ensuring every story upholds reader trust and journalistic standards.

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Anti-slip yoga mats can prevent tripping and slipping, which can lead to injuries and muscle strains, whether temporary or long-term. Unlike regular mats, anti-slip surfaces absorb moisture quickly, keeping your grip steady even during intense sessions. Plus, their cushioning ensures comfort, even when you sit or stay on them for extended periods. But do we really need them? The answer is yes, especially if you want to avoid unstable postures and reduce the risk of slipping on hard surfaces.

Dr Akhilesh Yadav, Orthopaedics & Joint Replacement surgeon at Max Super Speciality Hospital, tells Health Shots: "A mat with good grip on both sides provides stability; supports proper posture and balance; and reduces the risk of ligament strain or falls, especially for people with joint pain, weakness, or coordination issues.”

What are anti-slippery yoga mats?

According to the orthopaedic surgeon, anti-slip yoga mats offer grip while you exercise. The top surface provides grip for your hands and feet, while the bottom surface provides floor stability. These types of yoga mats also help you maintain proper joint alignment as you perform movements. They reduce the risk of slipping during weight-bearing poses, which can put pressure on your joints like the knees, wrists, and ankles.

Why do we need this?

Non-slip mats are important for safety addition during yoga or rehabilitative exercises. If the surface is unstable, there is a higher risk of slipping, which can lead to ligament injuries, muscle strain, or even falls. A stable base allows individuals to perform their exercises safely while maintaining proper posture and balance, both of which are essential for preventing musculoskeletal injuries, explains the orthopaedic surgeon.

What to keep in mind before you buy an anti-slip yoga mat?

Yoga mats used for exercise should be made of non-slippery materials to ensure stability and adequate cushioning while exercising. Cushioning protects joints and knees. A mat with a thickness of 4-6 mm provides the ideal balance of comfort and support for yoga and rehabilitative exercises. Natural rubber and TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) are regarded as superior materials due to their durability, grip, and comfort. Good-quality mats also provide effective shock absorption and help distribute body weight evenly, thereby supporting the joints during repeated movements or extended workout sessions.

How to choose?

When selecting a yoga mat, it is important to consider factors such as grip and thickness. If you frequently experience joint pain, choose a slightly thicker mat that can provide extra cushioning and support. It is also important that the surface maintains good traction even during sweaty sessions to ensure better stability and safety.

1. WiseLife TRUE Body Alignment Yoga Mat + Sleek Yoga Strap for Men and Women | Non-Slip Textured Extra Wide & Thick | Pro Balance TPE Exercise Mat For Home, Pilates, Gym & Fitness (6mm, Green)

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2. Boldfit Yoga Mat for Women and Men TPE Material Extra Thick Exercis for Men for Workout, Yoga, Fitness, Exercise Mat Anti Slip Mat,6mm Gym Mat

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3. Lifelong Dual Color TPE Material for Women & Men - 6mm Anti-Slip Yoga Mat for Gym Workout Exercise Mat for Home Gym - Yoga Mat for Gym Workout & Yoga Exercise (LLYM114)

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4. Nivia Spark EVA Yoga Mat for Men & Women, 4 mm with Carry strap, Anti Skid, Exercise Mat for Home Workout, Foldable yoga mat, For Gym Exercise/Fitness (Wine)

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5. Yogarise 6mm Anti-Skid Yoga Mat with Carry Bag, Eco-Friendly, Water-Resistant, Non-Toxic, Super Soft, Easy to Fold, Durable, Lightweight, Perfect for Yoga, Gym & Outdoor Workouts (Bottle Green)

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6. Bodyband Yoga Mat for Women and Men 4mm with Carry Strap EVA Material Extra Thick Exercise Mat for Workout Yoga Fitness Pilates and Meditation, Anti Tear Anti Slip For Home & Gym Use - Army Green

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Maintenance tips for long-lasting grip

• Clean regularly with mild soap or mat spray
• Avoid excessive sun exposure
• Store in a dry place
• Let it air dry after sweaty sessions

Common mistakes to avoid

• Choosing mats only based on price
• Ignoring material quality
• Picking overly thick mats that reduce balance
• Not cleaning the mat (reduces grip over time)

Frequently Asked Questions:

What materials make the best non-slip mats?

Natural rubber and PU (polyurethane) are some of the great options to maintain grip.

What is the best type of mat for hot yoga?

Open-cell mats, such as rubber or cork, are ideal for preventing slips because they absorb moisture.

How often should I clean my non-slip mat?

Clean your mat after every 3-5 sessions, or right after a hot yoga class.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition. At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, concerning the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.