Masters in Yoga Therapy | Pranayam | Holistic Healing | Dental Surgeon | Implantologist. Know more about Dr Seema Rathi.
When students ask me how to choose a yoga mat, most of them focus on grip, texture, or thickness. But after years of teaching, I have learned that your yoga mat size, or its length and width, is just as important. Many beginners overlook this, which is why I wanted to share my experience and help you choose a mat that truly fits your body and practice.
The right size can completely change how you practice. It affects your alignment, comfort, balance, and even how confidently you move through a sequence. Whether you are tall, small-built, broad-shouldered, or somewhere in the middle, understanding yoga mat dimensions will help you choose a mat that truly fits your body and style of practice.
Why Yoga Mat Size Matters
I have seen many beginners struggle simply because their mat is too short or narrow. Their hands or feet slip off during Surya Namaskar, or their head hangs off during Savasana. These small discomforts can make your practice feel more challenging than it needs to be. On the other hand, a mat that’s too big may feel heavy to carry or difficult to roll up. We suggest that you explore What to Look for in a Yoga Mat.
Your ideal yoga mat size should consider:
- Your height
- Your body build
- Your preferred style of practice
- How often you carry the mat outdoors or to your classes
If you have ever wondered, “Which yoga mat size is right for me?”, this guide will make it simple.
Common Yoga Mat Sizes (Quick Reference)
| Yoga Mat Type | Yoga Mat Size (Inches) | Yoga Mat Size (cm) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Mat | 68" × 24" | 173 cm × 61 cm | Practitioners under 6 ft |
| Extra-Long Mat | 72–85" × 24" | 183–216 cm × 61 cm | Tall individuals (6 ft and above) |
| Wide Mat | 68–72" × 26–30" | 173–183 cm × 66–76 cm | Broad shoulders, restorative yoga |
| Travel Mat | 68" × 24" (1–2 mm thick) | 173 cm × 61 cm | Yogis who travel or need a foldable mat |
| Kids Mat | 48–60" × 20" | 122–152 cm × 51 cm | Children or petite practitioners |
Do you have any doubts or questions about this article?? I am Dr. Seema Rathi, the author, and I would love to hear from you. Send us your question now!
Understanding Standard Yoga Mat Dimensions
Typical yoga mat dimensions fall within this range:
- Length: 68–72 inches (173–183 cm)
- Width: 24 inches (61 cm)
This size works well for most practitioners. But if you are taller, have a larger build, or enjoy restorative yoga where you spread out more, you may benefit from a longer or wider mat.
Yoga Mat Length: How to Choose Based on Your Height
A question I often get from my students is, “How long should my yoga mat be?” One simple rule I always share with my students is: Your mat should be at least 6 inches (15 cm) longer than your height. If your head or heels are slipping off the mat during Savasana, it means you need a longer option.
Who needs a long yoga mat?
- Anyone who is 5’10” (178 cm) and above
- Practitioners who feel cramped while moving from one asana to another
- Practitioners who enjoy dynamic flows and need more movement space
Extra-long mats can go up to 85 inches, and they make a huge difference in overall comfort and alignment.
Yoga Mat Width: Do You Need More Room?
The standard width is 24 inches, but wider mats (26–36 inches) offer more width space, and they are ideal for:
- Broad-shouldered practitioners
- Restorative yoga, where you need to spread out more
- Seniors or beginners who benefit from extra space
A wider mat can instantly make the practice feel more grounded and supported. But keep in mind that wider mats can be bulkier to carry, so find a balance between comfort and portability. Besides the yoga mat measurements, the yoga mat thickness also matters.
Portable Yoga Mats for Travel
If you travel frequently or prefer practicing outdoors, a lightweight travel mat may be ideal. These mats usually maintain the standard length and width but are much thinner—around 1–2 mm. They are easy to fold, and many students spread or layer them on top of studio mats for extra hygiene and comfort.
Best Yoga Mat Size for Beginners
When I guide beginners, I usually recommend starting with a standard-size yoga mat of 68–72 inches × 24 inches. It’s:
- Easy to carry
- Comfortable for most body types
- Suitable for all fundamental yoga asanas
Once your practice becomes more regular, you will understand whether you need more length, width, or thickness based on how your body feels.
My Quick Yoga Mat Size Checklist for Students
Before buying, ask yourself:
- What is my height? Will I need extra length?
- Will my shoulders feel restricted on standard mats?
- Will I travel with my mat often?
- Will I need more space for restorative yoga?
- Am I okay carrying a slightly heavier, wider mat?
This small checklist can save you from buying a mat that feels uncomfortable within weeks.
Your yoga mat is not just equipment—it’s your personal space for movement, breath, and awareness. Choosing the right yoga mat size is about honouring your body and giving yourself the comfort you deserve.
As a yoga instructor, I have seen how much difference the right mat can make in a student’s journey. I hope this guide helps you choose a mat that fits your body, supports your practice, and feels perfect every time you step on it.
Keep in mind that wider mats may be bulkier to carry, so balance comfort with portability.
Do you have any doubts or questions about this article?? I am Dr. Seema Rathi, the author, and I would love to hear from you. Send us your question now!
Frequently Asked Questions About Yoga Mat Size
What is the standard size of a yoga mat?
The most common yoga mat size is 68 inches (173 cm) long and 24 inches (61 cm) wide. This size suits most people under 6 feet tall and provides enough space for basic poses and transitions.
How do I choose the right yoga mat size for my height?
A simple rule: your mat should be at least 6 inches (15 cm) longer than your height to comfortably lie down in Savasana. So, if you’re taller than 6 feet, look for 72–74 inch (or longer) mats.
Is a wider yoga mat better?
A wider mat (26–30 inches / 66–76 cm) provides more space for arm movements, side stretches, and stability. It’s especially helpful if you feel cramped on a standard mat or need extra support in balancing poses.
What’s the difference between a long yoga mat and a standard yoga mat?
A long yoga mat is designed for taller practitioners and usually ranges from 72 to 85 inches. Functionally, the practice remains the same—you simply get more space to stretch without your head or feet hanging off the mat.
Are travel yoga mats smaller in size?
Not always in size, but they are usually thinner (1–2 mm) so they can be folded easily. Many travel mats maintain standard length but are designed to be lightweight and portable.
What size yoga mat is best for beginners?
For beginners, I usually recommend a standard 68–72 inch × 24 inch mat. It’s easy to handle, comfortable for most body types, and suitable for all foundational poses. Once your practice becomes consistent, you can experiment with longer or wider mats based on what feels best for your body.
Is a 68-inch yoga mat too short for tall people?
If you’re around 5’10” (178 cm) or taller, a 68-inch mat may feel a bit short—especially during Savasana or poses where you fully stretch out. In that case, I always suggest going for a 72-inch or 74-inch mat, or even an extra-long option up to 85 inches.
Does the thickness of a yoga mat affect the size I should choose?
Thickness doesn’t change the length or width, but it can affect how the mat feels. If you prefer a thicker mat (like 6–8 mm), make sure the length and width still suit your body. Sometimes thicker mats feel slightly smaller during balancing poses, so size and stability should both be considered.
