Of All the Fancy Gym Equipment, This $21 Amazon Yoga Mat Is My Workout Essential

Like so many others, I've been working out at home for the last year, and along the way, I've picked up a few tips and tricks. One thing I've learned is that it's important to get the right gear; it doesn't have to break the bank, but using the right equipment can seriously level up your workout. I used to take a lot of sculpting classes and Pilates classes, and whenever we got to mat work, my knees would hurt and I would have to fold up my mat two or three times until I got comfortable. That is, until I purchased this BalanceFrom GoYoga+ All-Purpose 1/2-Inch Extra Thick Yoga Mat and Knee Pad ($21).

This mat is so thick and cushioned, it feels more like a pad, but it's got enough grip so that you can still move with it. Since I started using it, I have not worried about my knees when doing leg lifts or fire hydrants, and my wrists have also stayed comfortable in planks, something I never thought would happen. I'd stay away from this mat if you're a serious yogi working on inversions or complicated balance poses, because I do think you'd need a little more stability with the floor. However, if you're like me and just trying to get a good sweat sesh in, this is the mat to choose. When I purchased it, I just needed a yoga mat and wasn't expecting something super high-quality, but a year later, it's held up perfectly. I love it so much, I even bought a second.