For home practice, a folding panel mat around 1.5 to 2 inches thick suits stretching, rolls, handstands and cartwheels that a gymnast has already learned. Incline (cheese) mats help with rolls and walkovers. Thicker landing mats around 4 to 8 inches go under beams and bars. Choose firm foam with a cleanable vinyl cover and hook-and-loop ends so panels join. Practice new skills only with a coach.
Mats make home practice safer, but they do not replace coaching.
Mat types
| Mat | Thickness | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Folding panel | About 1.5 to 2 in | Floor basics, stretching, handstands |
| Incline or wedge (cheese) | Sloped | Rolls, walkovers, drills |
| Landing mat | About 4 to 8 in | Under beams and bars |
| Crash mat | Thicker, softer | Supervised drills |
| Air track | Inflatable | Tumbling; see air tracks |
What to compare
| Spec | Why |
|---|---|
| Foam density | Firm foam for floor skills |
| Cover | Vinyl that wipes clean |
| Connectors | Hook-and-loop on ends to join mats |
| Folded size | Storage |
| Weight | Moving it around |
Space
Measure the room and allow clear space beyond the mat on all sides, with nothing to hit.
Safety
Practice skills the gymnast already performs safely at their gym, with an adult present.
Add a home balance beam. Browse gymnastics.
Common questions
What thickness gymnastics mat is best for home?
About 1.5 to 2 inches for floor skills, and thicker landing mats under beams and bars.
What is a cheese mat?
An incline wedge mat that helps with rolls, walkovers and handsprings drills.
Are thicker mats always safer?
Not for every skill. Very soft or thick mats can roll ankles on floor skills. Match the mat to the use.
Can kids learn back handsprings at home?
New tumbling skills should be learned with a qualified coach and spotting, then practiced at home only as the coach advises.