I'm posting this here, because my primary art (Nihon Goshin Aikido) has more in common with Jujutsu and Judo than Ueshiba's Aikido. We primarily use Judo falls (nearly identical to those I learned in Judo in the 1980's), and have Judo-style throws (from clinch, etc.) that don't seem to show up in Aikido. That said, I'd be interested in hearing from Aikido folks, as well.
I've been pondering mats lately. I came up through the ranks in Nihon Goshin Aikido training on a couple of different types. Early on, it was the folding gymnastics mats. Later (and for the longest period) it was the tatami-look mats that Swain and Zebra make (the 2" grappling mats). I always liked those. The surface firmness of the tatami-style mats makes for better footing, and I like them pretty well for falls. The mats I use now (provided by the rec center I teach at) are a bit firmer on top for rolls, but reasonably similar for falls.
For a while I used some cheaper mats I purchased. They are 2", and fairly soft. Harder to move well on, and softer for falls and rolls.
As I age, and as I see adults learning the art (and taking their falls, which are more punishing early on, until you get better at them), I see more benefit in softer mats. I know a couple of instructors who advocate some version of sprung floor, to reduce the felt impact.
So, my question is this: have you ever been on a flooring/mat combo that you really liked? If so, what was it? What would you put in if you had the choice?
I've been pondering mats lately. I came up through the ranks in Nihon Goshin Aikido training on a couple of different types. Early on, it was the folding gymnastics mats. Later (and for the longest period) it was the tatami-look mats that Swain and Zebra make (the 2" grappling mats). I always liked those. The surface firmness of the tatami-style mats makes for better footing, and I like them pretty well for falls. The mats I use now (provided by the rec center I teach at) are a bit firmer on top for rolls, but reasonably similar for falls.
For a while I used some cheaper mats I purchased. They are 2", and fairly soft. Harder to move well on, and softer for falls and rolls.
As I age, and as I see adults learning the art (and taking their falls, which are more punishing early on, until you get better at them), I see more benefit in softer mats. I know a couple of instructors who advocate some version of sprung floor, to reduce the felt impact.
So, my question is this: have you ever been on a flooring/mat combo that you really liked? If so, what was it? What would you put in if you had the choice?