Barefoot training: Foam mats or rubber tiles?

[Johnson]

I plan to cover my concrete garage floor for training (mainly kicking boxing bag) with barefoot. I found two options from Bunnings: Rubber Gym Tile and Interlock Foam Mats. However, due to the lockdown restrictions I cannot feel the products in store.

My understanding is that, the rube gym tile is more durable (good for weight lifting) and form mats are better for barefoot training. Is this correct? Can I train comfortably with barefoot on rube gym tile?

Thanks! 

Cheers

Johnson

[MitchellMc]

Hi @Johnson,

The Ultimate Flooring 1 x 1m Rubber Gym Tile - Black is more durable than the EVA 50 x 50cm Interlock Foam Mats Solid Black Pk4. The foam mats are softer and could be more comfortable on sensitive bare feet. However, it should be quite comfortable training on either. I guess it depends on whether you have any pre-existing foot issues or how sensitive your feet are. Personally, I've never trained with mats and have spent hundreds of hours training on hard timber floors with bare feet. I can't say I've ever experienced any significant discomfort and can only imagine that any type of mat would be undoubtedly more comfortable than that.

Perhaps you could use the rubber mats on the area where you weightlift and switch to the foam mats around the boxing bag?

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[Johnson]

Thanks @MitchellMc ! Mixing them for different purposes is a great idea! 

Cheers

Johnson

[MitchellMc]

Keep us updated @Johnson. I trust our members would be interested in seeing your finished results and hearing your feedback on the mats.

Mitchell

[Johnson]

Sure! I'm also looking forward to it!