Gymnastics Flooring: The Foundation of Every Great Routine
As gymnasts, we know that every tumble, leap, and landing begins and ends with what’s beneath our feet. Whether you’re training at home or gearing up for elite competition, choosing the right flooring isn’t just about comfort—it’s about performance, precision, and above all, safety.
From your first cartwheel to high-level dismounts, here’s a breakdown of the top flooring options to match your level, goals, and training style.
1. Interlocking Foam Mats – All-Rounders for Versatility & Value
✔️ Why we like them:
These mats are quick to set up and pack down, making them a solid option for home gyms or multi-use spaces. The interlocking design keeps them in place, and they offer decent cushioning for basic skills.
❌ Keep in mind:
The seams can create slight unevenness underfoot, so they’re not ideal for advanced tumbling or complex skills.
🏠 Best for:
Beginner training, family fitness zones, or adding a layer of safety to general-purpose spaces.
2. Crash Mats (Landing Mats) – The Gold Standard for Protection
✔️ Why we rely on them:
If you’re working beam dismounts, bar routines, or any skill that involves flight, crash mats are your safety net. They absorb force on impact, reduce injury risk, and build confidence as you progress.
❌ Keep in mind:
They take up space and can be a bit of a pain to store. But trust me—when you’re mid-air, you’ll be glad they’re there.
🏆 Best for:
High-impact landings, competition prep, or any setting where safety comes first.
3. Air Tracks – Tumbling Made Light
✔️ Why we train on them:
Air tracks give you that extra rebound for tumbling, which can make a big difference when perfecting flips and aerial skills. You can tweak the air pressure to suit your style—and when you’re done, just deflate and roll it up.
❌ Keep in mind:
They require inflation, and like any inflatable, they’re not invincible. Handle with care.
🔁 Best for:
Tumbling practice, cheer routines, or gymnasts on the go who need a portable setup.
4. Carpet Roll-Out Mats – Smooth Landings, Clean Lines
✔️ Why they’re competition-ready:
Used across pro-level competitions, these mats provide a smooth, clean surface for floor routines and rhythmic work. They’re easy to roll out, easy to store, and look sharp.
❌ Keep in mind:
They’re not built for high-impact landings. You’ll want a crash mat nearby for harder skills.
💃 Best for:
Floor routines, rhythmic training, or creating that professional finish at home.
5. General Foam Gym Mats – Beginner-Friendly & Flexible
✔️ Why they’re a solid starting point:
Simple, affordable, and easy to use. These are the mats many of us started out on. They come in different thicknesses and offer enough support for early skill development.
❌ Keep in mind:
As you progress, they may not provide the support you need for more intense training.
🧒 Best for:
Kids' training areas, light fitness use, and entry-level gymnastics skills.
Key Tips When Choosing Your Mat
Match your flooring to the intensity of your training. The higher the impact, the more cushioning you need.
Limited space? Folding or rollable mats will be your best friend.
Need something you can bring to the park or a friend's garage gym? Lightweight options like air tracks or roll mats are ideal.
Your mat is an investment in safety—don’t skimp where it counts.
Look for non-slip surfaces, durable materials, and proper thickness for your skill set.
Final Thoughts: Set the Groundwork for Greatness
As someone who's spent more time upside down than right-side up, I can tell you this: great gymnastics starts with great foundations. Whether you’re working your way toward your first handstand or prepping for your next meet, the right flooring gives you the confidence to push limits—safely.
🔹 Explore our full range of gymnastics mats and find the setup that meets your level, space, and training style. Your routines deserve nothing less.
