Yoga Mat Size: How to Choose the Right Size

Dr Seema Rathi

Masters in Yoga Therapy | Pranayam | Holistic Healing | Dental Surgeon | Implantologist. Know more about Dr Seema Rathi.

When choosing a yoga mat, most beginners focus on material, grip, or thickness—but yoga mat size is equally important. The right dimensions can directly affect your comfort, alignment, and range of movement. Whether you’re tall, small-built, or somewhere in between, understanding standard yoga mat dimensions and how they relate to your body type and practice style is important for finding your perfect yoga mat.

Mat TypeDimensions (L × W)Best For
Standard Mat68" × 24"Most users under 6 feet tall
Extra-Long Mat72–85" × 24"Tall practitioners (6' and above)
Wide Mat68–72" × 26–30"Broad shoulders, restorative styles
Travel Mat68" × 24" (1–2mm thick)On-the-go yogis, lightweight option
Kids Mat48–60" × 20"Children or petite practitioners

Why Yoga Mat Size Matters

Yoga is a mental and physical experience; a mat that’s too short or narrow can limit your poses, disrupt your flow, and even cause discomfort.

On the other hand, a mat that’s too big may be cumbersome to carry or store. The ideal yoga mat size for a beginner should balance comfort, portability, and body size. We suggest that you explore What to Look for in a Yoga Mat.

Standard Yoga Mat Dimensions

Most mats fall within a standard range:

  • Length: yoga mat dimensions in inches: 68–72 inches (173–183 cm)
  • Width: 24 inches (61 cm)

This size suits most practitioners under 6 feet tall. However, if you’re taller or prefer more space, consider an extra-long yoga mat or extra-wide yoga mat according to body size.

Yoga Mat Length: What You Should Consider

If you’re over 6 feet tall, a standard mat may leave your head or feet hanging out during poses like Savasana or Adho Mukha Svanasana.

An extra-long yoga mat (up to 85 inches) ensures full-body support and better alignment. Look for mats labelled “XL” or “Tall,” and check the product specifications before buying.

Yoga Mat Width: More Room to Move

While 24 inches is standard, wider mats (26–36 inches) offer more width space; they’re ideal for:

  • Broad-shouldered yoga practitioners
  • Restorative yoga, where you need to spread out more
  • Seniors or beginners who benefit from extra space

Keep in mind that wider mats may be bulkier to carry, so balance comfort with portability.

Portable Yoga Mats for Travel

For yogis on the move, portable yoga mats offer compact sizing and lightweight materials. These mats typically maintain standard width but are thinner (1–2 mm), making them easy to fold or roll.

They’re ideal for layering over studio mats or practicing outdoors. Learn how to choose the right yoga mat thickness based on your body type and practice style.

Best Yoga Mat Size for Beginners

If you’re just starting out, select a standard yoga mat size that is 68–72 inches long × 24 inches wide. It is a safe choice, easy to carry, and provides enough space and comfort for most poses.

As your practice becomes more regular, you can upgrade to a longer or wider mat based on your comfort and style.

Yoga mat size isn’t just a technical detail; it’s a reflection of your body, your space, and your intention. Whether you’re tall, small-built, or somewhere in between, choosing the right length and width can improve your practice and prevent discomfort.

We are confident that our guide to finding a mat that fits your body and your lifestyle has helped you to select the right yoga mat.

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