Composite yoga mats

Abstract

This invention provides composite yoga mats comprising a fabric sheet with a frictional material and/or loop holes to provide support, a stable surface, and moisture absorption for the practice of yoga.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO PRIOR APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims priority to and benefit of a prior U.S. provisional application No. 60 / 536,857, Composite Yoga Mats by Richard Edwards, filed Jan. 15, 2004. The full disclosure of this prior application is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention is in the field of accessories for the practice of yoga. In particular, the invention provides, e.g., multifunctional composite yoga mats that provide support, comfort, stability, and functional indicia that facilitate practice of yoga. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Many yoga positions and forms of yoga practice can be performed on a floor without any special implements. Yoga has been traditionally practiced with the practitioner changing positions on a mat, such as a tatami mat. However, traditional mats are not portable and many modern mats are uncomfortable and slippery when wet. In addition, current yoga mats and accessories fail to pro...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009] Composite yoga mats of the invention can provide unique combinations of practical functions not available from traditional yoga mats. Yoga mats of the invention can absorb moisture, control transfer of moisture, provide cushioning, insulate, provide stability, present functional information, be lightweight and portable, and / or the like. Yoga mats of the invention generally comprise, e.g., a moisture absorbent fabric sheet having a moisture absorbent first side surface, and a frictional material disposed on the fabric sheet second side to provide-cushioning and a stable yoga practice surface.

Problems solved by technology

However, traditional mats are not portable and many modern mats are uncomfortable and slippery when wet.

In addition, current yoga mats and accessories fail to provide multiple benefits, such as personal surfaces, cushioning, sweat absorption, aid in attaining positions, compactness, a stable foundation, and / or positional reference frames.

However, these mats can be unstable, slippery, unhygienic, and provide few functional benefits beyond presentation of a homogenous padded surface.

However, as yoga can be strenuous the mat can become contaminated with sweat.

This can be particularly troublesome for practitioners of bikram yoga, wherein the exercises are practiced in hot environments.

Sweat can accumulate on the hydrophobic mats making them slippery, uncomfortable, and unhygienic.

Another problem with typical yoga mats is their lack of stability.

This problem can make practice of some positions difficult of hazardous.

However, these yoga straps provide only the support function.

A clutter of devices in the practice room can disturb the serenity of the traditional yoga environment.

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