13 Things About Gym Mats You May Not Have Known

Gym mats may seem straightforward, but behind every mat is a smart design, a specific purpose, and surprising versatility. Whether you’re decking out a commercial training centre, a martial arts dojo, or a home gym, the right matting solution can make all the difference. At Ezy Mats, we’ve spent years helping Australians choose the perfect flooring — and we’ve learned a lot along the way.

Here are 13 things you may not have known about gym mats:

1. They’re Not All Made the Same

When most people picture gym mats, they imagine a one-size-fits-all solution. In reality, mats vary widely depending on their intended use. EVA jigsaw mats, for instance, are perfect for martial arts and bodyweight exercises, while heavier rubber tiles are better suited to weightlifting areas. Crash mats provide extra protection for high-impact training or gymnastics.

At Ezy Mats, we offer a full spectrum of matting types because we understand that different disciplines require different features. From folding mats for easy storage to tatami-style mats that mimic traditional Japanese flooring, each product is designed with performance, safety, and comfort in mind.

2. Thickness Really Matters

The thickness of your mat isn’t just about softness — it’s about safety. Thicker mats offer better shock absorption, which is vital for high-impact activities like judo, BJJ, or plyometric workouts. Too thin, and you risk joint damage. Too thick, and you may lose stability.

We supply gym mats in various thicknesses, typically 20mm, 30mm, and 40mm. Choosing the right thickness depends on how you plan to use the space. Our team can help you select the perfect balance between cushioning and support to match your training needs.

3. They Protect Floors AND Equipment

Your gym equipment is an investment, and gym mats play a key role in protecting that investment. Whether it’s a heavy dumbbell dropped during a lift or a treadmill in motion, gym mats provide a buffer between your gear and the hard flooring underneath.

But it’s not just about protecting the gear — it’s also about preserving your floors. Tiles, hardwood, and concrete can crack or degrade over time without proper protection. Mats extend the life of your training space and keep everything looking newer, longer.

4. Jigsaw Mats Aren’t Just for Kids

Jigsaw mats may look like oversized puzzle pieces, but don’t let that fool you — they’re a serious flooring solution for martial artists, personal trainers, and physiotherapists alike. Their interlocking design makes them incredibly easy to install and customise.

At Ezy Mats, our jigsaw mats are made from high-density EVA foam, offering shock absorption, anti-slip surfaces, and easy cleaning. Whether you’re building a commercial space or setting up a home studio, jigsaw mats are a practical, professional choice.

5. EVA Foam Is a Game-Changer

EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) foam is one of the most popular materials used in gym mats today — and for good reason. It’s strong, lightweight, water-resistant, and durable, making it ideal for high-traffic training spaces.

All our Ezy Mats interlocking jigsaw mats are made from high-quality EVA foam. This means they’ll withstand the rigours of daily use without wearing out or losing their protective properties — providing long-term value for gym owners and home users alike.

6. Tatami-Style Finishes Have Practical Benefits

Tatami mats are known for their distinctive texture and aesthetic appeal. But beyond their looks, the tatami finish also enhances grip and reduces the risk of slipping during training. This makes them especially valuable in disciplines like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or judo, where mat traction is critical.

Tatami-style mats from Ezy Mats combine traditional design with modern materials, offering a professional look and feel. They’re a great way to maintain authenticity while still benefiting from the comfort and resilience of EVA foam.

7. They Help with Acoustics

Sound management is an underrated benefit of gym mats. In echo-prone environments like concrete training rooms or garage gyms, mats can significantly reduce noise from footsteps, dropped weights, and general movement.

This sound-dampening effect improves the atmosphere of a training space, particularly in shared environments or residential areas. Whether you’re running a gym in an apartment block or simply want to keep the peace at home, mats can make a noticeable difference.

8. They’re Water-Resistant and Easy to Clean

Sweat, spills, and grime are inevitable in any active space. The good news is, gym mats are designed to handle them. EVA foam and rubber tiles are non-absorbent, meaning they won’t soak up moisture or develop odours over time.

Cleaning is quick and easy — just wipe down with a damp cloth or use mild disinfectant. This makes gym mats an excellent choice for environments that require high hygiene standards, like PT studios, schools, and health clinics.

9. Home Gyms Are Getting Smarter

As more Australians bring their workouts home, demand for professional-grade gym flooring has soared. Gone are the days of slipping on a yoga mat in the living room — today’s home gyms are designed with safety, function, and aesthetics in mind.

Ezy Mats has seen a growing trend in homeowners opting for interlocking jigsaw mats or rubber tiles to replicate commercial flooring. With our wide range of colours, textures, and thicknesses, you can create a high-performance space right in your spare room or garage.

10. They’re Available in a Range of Colours

Who says your gym has to be boring black? Our mats come in a range of colours including black, grey, red, blue, and reversible options. Colour isn’t just about style — it can also help zone your training area or reflect your branding.

Gyms, martial arts schools, and personal studios often use colours to define sparring areas, warm-up zones, or class spaces. With Ezy Mats, you can choose the colour scheme that best suits your space and training goals.

11. They Can Be Custom Cut

Every space is unique — and your matting should be too. Our interlocking mats can be trimmed easily with a utility knife to fit corners, edges, or around poles and awkward walls.

This gives you a clean, professional finish with minimal effort. We also provide edging pieces to complete the look and keep mats secure. It’s a customisable solution that works for everything from boutique studios to large-scale fit-outs.

12. They’re Not Just for Gyms

You might be surprised where gym mats show up. From children’s play centres and physiotherapy rooms to TV sets, campervans, and exhibition booths, gym mats are used far beyond the training world.

Their versatility, portability, and durability make them a go-to choice for anyone needing safe, soft flooring. Ezy Mats serves a wide range of industries that rely on our products to provide practical and stylish solutions.

13. Ezy Mats Offers Australia-Wide Delivery

No matter where you are in Australia — metro, regional, or remote — Ezy Mats delivers. Our fast, reliable shipping means you can have premium gym flooring delivered directly to your door, wherever your gym is based.

From large commercial orders to a few mats for your garage, we’ve made the process as simple and affordable as possible. We’re committed to helping you build the space you need — no compromises.

Final Word

At Ezy Mats, we know that gym mats are more than just floor coverings — they’re the foundation of safe, effective training. Whether you’re a gym owner, a martial artist, or a home fitness enthusiast, investing in quality mats will transform how you train.

Browse our full range of jigsaw mats, tatami mats, crash mats, and rubber tiles today at ezymats.com.au, or get in touch for a quote tailored to your needs.