Keys to Selecting the Right Mats for Your Members
As Planet Fitness ® gyms provide the finest exercise equipment , the same quality in the stretching / exercise mats should be provided for members . There are several key features to look for when deciding on which mat will provide a quality experience for your members .
Easy to Sanitize
In today ’ s environment , the stretching / exercise mat must be easy to sanitize , just like all other gym equipment . Some open foam mats are porous and act as breeding grounds for dangerous bacteria and viruses . Make sure to find quality , smooth , sealed surfaces that can be cleaned , disinfected , and most importantly , sanitized , to keep your members healthy and safe while in your gym .
Comfortable
A good stretching / exercise mat needs to perform . By performance , we refer to effectively suspending body weight at the contact points on the floor , taking impact off joints and the strain off muscles . It must be comfortable and reduce the effect of gravity on the body during floor exercises and stretching .
Safe
There are many times when mats are left on the ground , creating a potential trip hazard for members . Provide mats that are guaranteed to lie flat on the floor and that will not have edges that can roll up and cause dangerous trip hazards for others in the area .
Durable
Do not be fooled by lower price options that require more frequent replacement , creating additional cost and waste . Just as with all gym equipment , the durability of a stretching / exercise mat is important to the bottom line . Find stretching / exercise mats that are long-lasting , backed by a solid warranty , and will survive the frequent use they will endure in your gym .
Hangable
Because mats live predominantly on the floor of the gym where foot traffic can carry tremendous amounts of dirt and germs , you should look for mats that can be stored easily off the floor where they can remain clean and safe for use . Stretching / exercise mats that have an option for hanging storage provide versatile and safe options for gyms .
Multipurpose
Providing a multipurpose accessory for gym members to use during their fitness regimen is crucial for success and member retention . A stretching / exercise mat should also be adaptable to other forms of usage , such as fitness classes as well as planks , crunches , and other floor exercises .
American Made
Products made in America allow business owners to invest back into our country and allow for better quality controls . This will ensure the best equipment is provided to your members as well as reduce exposure to unsafe chemicals . As with the other professional equipment you provide in your gym , find stretching / exercise mats that are made in the USA . Ensure they are from a reputable source where you can trust that the product is non-toxic , latex-free and safe for your members .
When choosing a stretching / exercise mat to complete the gym experience , be sure to look for ones that are easy to sanitize , comfortable and durable . It should be made in America and be multipurpose , safe and hangable . These features will ensure that your members have the best fitness experience available . G
Wellness Mats is a silver sponsor partner of PFIFC . For more information , visit www . wellnessfitnessmats . com , call 800-981-4979 or email pforders @ wellnessfitnessmats . com .
GearedUp | 2020 Issue 4
25