Want to train BJJ or MMA at home? Well, the first thing you’re going to need is a set of mats. Trying to train without a solid mat setup is asking for injuries.
Puzzle mats are the easiest type of mats to build your at-home setup with. They are interlocking, expandable, and cheap. They’re not the only option though! Gymnastics mats can work in a pinch, and the top Jiu Jitsu mat suppliers also sell individual mats for at home use.
These are my picks for the best mats you can use to dial in your at home training setup…
The Best Floor Mats for BJJ and MMA in 2023
The Balance From Puzzle Mat is the overall best contender in the lineup. Customize your thickness, square footage, and color to match your needs as much as possible. If you are looking for the most cushioned option, the one inch thick puzzle mat tiles would be your best bet. Are you looking for the most coverage? Choose the 144 square feet option to maximize your space.
This mat set is also effortless to assemble. The puzzle-shaped pieces slide into place and interlock to hold together while you do your thing. Both sides of the pieces include a non-slip surface, which is another way to keep you upright while you practice your moves.
Although sweat is a sign of a great workout, there is nothing worse than a sticky or sweaty surface to work out on. Many workout mats may absorb water, but since these mat tiles are moisture-resistant, clean up is a breeze with soap and water at hand.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or any mixed martial arts training at home or in the gym can involve a lot of falling. Even the best fighters learn how to fall in a protected and safe way. This means that extra cushion on your BJJ and MMA home training area can’t hurt. For this, choose the Meister X-Thick Mats.
The 1.5-inch thick foam tiles are a sturdy option, but that doesn’t mean they skimp anywhere else. The cushy foam is perfect for practicing takedowns or other exercises. Just assemble quickly with the interlocking pieces, and you are ready to go.
The anti-slip surface is on both sides of the puzzle tiles. This provides the extra traction you need to take on an opponent while training. Since the surface is waterproof, clean it easily with soap and water to avoid stains from sweat.
For a mat that offers the most straightforward setup and takedown option, the Best Choice Folding Mat is the pick. The four panels expand out for maximum practice area. Once your workout or training session is complete, neatly fold together the panels for convenient storage. Your room is once again free for your personal use.
This folding mat is also tough enough to withstand even the most rigorous MMA home training. The inner foam is 2 inches thick for a cushioned landing. A cool, clean faux leather finish on the cover makes for a smooth workout. The outer layer is also removable for even easier cleaning.
If the 10-foot dimension is not enough for your sparring sessions, the Best Choice Folding Mat comes with touch fasteners that let you connect similar mats. Having an even larger area to practice your takedown techniques safely will allow you to go far in your MMA or BJJ journey.
The ProsourceFit Puzzle Mat is an affordable puzzle mat alternative with multiple thickness options available. Choose from ¾ inch thick or 1 inch thick depending on your training needs. The consistent thickness and interlocking pieces form a seamless workout space for your whole body workout.
The large pieces have texture, so fast paced striking won’t knock you down easily or slip on any surface. Gain traction any way the pieces are laid out, and attach the included border pieces for a clean, finished look. It’s easy to add pieces from another set to create a matted layer that fits your chosen room.
The water-resistant finish makes sanitizing the tiles of sweat unproblematic. These durable mat pieces will cushion your every move as you strike, wrestle and grapple your way to being a great BJJ or MMA fighter.
Are you looking for the ultimate cushioning in a floor mat tileset? The IncStores Jumbo Soft Tiles will be your go-to in that department. These super safe tiles are perfect for grappling, striking, holding, and throwing with a shield of foam to protect you and your body from harm.
The reversible color options make changing up your workout environment easy and fun. Just flip over your tiles or alternate colors for a fun checkerboard pattern. The textured surface also adds to the fun while being functional to keep your floor from sliding around on you.
Secure your floor from wall to wall to create a training dojo, or prepare a floor section for your workouts. Either way, you can use the included edge pieces for a neat finish on the sides of your area.
The Square36 Exercise Mat is perfect for use in any home gym environment. The high-quality foam material can take all of the weight that you may throw at it. This could be body weight from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practice or free weights for your strength training. The durable and non-toxic mat will support you without any harmful chemicals.
This mat comes in various sizes to match the size of the floor you are looking to cover. Add another mat of any size for an even larger surface to practice your moves. It is also designed to protect the flooring underneath and your own body from any intensity of any martial arts preparation.
Since this mat is one simple layer, set up is as easy as unrolling the mat in your desired location and getting started. Take comfort in the non-slip side that will grip your floor and take your home workout to the next level with the Square36 Exercise Mat.
How To Set Up Floor Mats at Home
Without a padded surface, you just can’t train Jiu Jitsu or MMA safely. Once you have found a mat that you can trust, you can give it your all and find out how much your past training has propelled you in strength and agility.
Most types of mats will work well in any room and any flooring. From carpet to hardwood, your foam mat should work to prevent any sliding that could lead to injuries from happening. A textured surface underneath is a good indicator that the mat will grip the floor and stay still regardless of movement.
Some of the best floor mats for BJJ, and the best floor mats for MMA are tiled pieces versus one singular mat. The puzzle piece style of mat is a great and lightweight option. To set up, you should figure out the area of the floor that you are aiming to cover. Some simple math will help you decide how many tile pieces you will need. Once you acquire the parts, simply interlock them like a puzzle, attach the straight edge pieces, and you are ready to work out.
A singular mat can also be a lightweight option. These can usually roll up, which makes shifting your training area a breeze.
Frequently Asked Questions About Floor Mats
Q: Why should I get a floor mat for my BJJ and MMA training?
A: A floor mat will let you take your mixed martial arts training to the next level. You will be able to comfortably spar with a partner or condition with equipment and body weight exercises.
Another critical reason is to make your training area feel as legitimate as a home gym can. This will motivate you to keep pushing your limits.
Q: Why are different thickness options available?
A: Various thicknesses allow for different levels of support based on your existing floor. You may prefer a thinner foam layer on top of a cushiony carpeted area. A ½ inch or ¾ inch option adds a nice layer of cushion to cuarpet.
Or your hardwood may require thicker floor mats to protect you. The 1 to 2-inch choices would be ideal for harder surfaces.
Q: Will a puzzle tile mat style lay flat on the floor?
A: A common worry with puzzle tile mat pieces is that they will buckle together or come up with frequent or intense movement. This is because the multiple pieces may not be completely flush together.
Most puzzle mats are made to fit together seamlessly upon installation and should hold together through your routine.
Final Thoughts on Finding the Best Floor Mats for BJJ and MMA
Taking MMA and BJJ seriously requires commitment, time, and energy. A floor mat for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or mixed martial arts practice is an investment into your body and skill. You should carefully consider what kind of mat you need and choose based on location, size, and thickness.
Of the options above, the BalanceFrom Puzzle Mat is my personal favorite. The design lends itself to an easy and portable set up. The customization options are also great to specify what size and thickness you might need. This floor mat is clearly a top choice.