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Working Out Outdoors: Using an Exercise Mat on a Patio, Deck or Backyard

Take your workout outside on our Exercise Mat: a flat patio, deck, pavers or driveway. Sweep first, wipe and dry it after, and bring it in. Yoga Mats stay indoors.

Updated October 20263 min read

Woman in sneakers sitting with her dog on a large grey mat by a backyard pool, dumbbells in front

Short answer: yes, you can take your workout outside on our Exercise Mat. Lay it on a flat, hard surface like a patio, deck, pavers, or a driveway, sweep the spot first, and wipe the mat down when you're done. Make sure both sides are dry before you roll it up and bring it in. Keep our Yoga Mats indoors; they're made for indoor, barefoot practice.

Key takeaways

  • Outside workouts: use the Exercise Mat. Yoga Mats stay indoors.
  • Pick a flat, hard surface: patio, deck, pavers, driveway.
  • Sweep first so stones and grit don't end up under the mat.
  • Wipe it, dry both sides, roll it up, bring it in.

Why bring a mat outside

  • Concrete and pavers are hard. The 1/4" (6mm) high-density mat cushions jumps, push-ups, and kneeling work.
  • Decks have gaps and splinters. A big mat gives you one smooth, even surface.
  • You get a defined space. Lay it down and your outdoor gym is ready.

“Excellent mat, perfect for the house (on hardwoods) and outside.”

Verified buyer · 5 stars · Large Exercise Mat

Where it works best

Surface Good fit? Tip
Concrete patio or driveway Yes Sweep off sand and grit first
Wood or composite deck Yes Lay the mat across the boards
Pavers and pool decking Yes Pick a level spot away from splash zones
Grass, gravel, or dirt Not ideal Lumps and stones under the mat make it uneven
Backyard deck gym with a free-standing punching bag on a large grey mat
A backyard deck gym with a punching bag on a large mat.

Exercise Mat outside, Yoga Mat inside

Our Exercise Mats are built for shoes, weights, and high-impact training, and they're the ones to take outdoors for exercise. Our Yoga Mats have a softer, barefoot surface made for indoor use. Not sure which you have or need? See Exercise Mat vs Yoga Mat.

“Stays put on a concrete surface. Wipes off clean.”

Verified buyer · 5 stars · Large Exercise Mat

Outdoor workout routine for the mat

  1. Before: sweep the spot and check it's level and dry.
  2. During: wear training shoes. Keep a towel nearby for sweat.
  3. After: brush off leaves and grit, wipe the mat with a damp cloth, and let both sides dry completely.
  4. Store: roll it with the straps and bring it inside. Full cleaning guide: How to Clean a Large Exercise Mat.
Woman in a standing stretch on a black mat in a garage next to a truck and bikes
A standing stretch on a large mat in a garage gym.

Which size for outside?

6' x 4' (14 lbs) is the easiest to carry in and out. 7' x 5' or 8' x 4' gives room for HIIT and jump rope. For a backyard gym with a bag or a bench, go 9' x 6' or bigger. Sizing help: What Size Exercise Mat Do You Need?

Take your workout outside

Free shipping, 60-day returns, and a lifetime warranty on every mat.

Shop Exercise MatsSee the Size Guide

FAQ

Can I use an exercise mat outside?

Yes. Our Exercise Mats work on patios, decks, pavers, and driveways for outdoor workouts. Wipe, dry, and bring them in afterward.

Can I use a yoga mat outside?

Keep our Yoga Mats indoors. For outdoor workouts, use the Exercise Mat.

Can I put the mat on grass?

Flat, hard surfaces work best. Grass and gravel leave lumps under the mat.

Can I wear shoes on the mat outside?

Yes. The Exercise Mat is built for shoes. Knock off grit before you step on.

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