How to Choose the Right Flooring Thickness for Your Gym or Martial Arts Space in Singapore

When planning a gym or martial arts space in Singapore, flooring is one of the most important decisions you'll make. But beyond just material, flooring thickness plays a critical role in performance, safety, sound absorption, and equipment protection.

At GymFlooring.sg, we supply and install a wide range of flooring—from rubber tiles to tatami mats to foam rolls—and this guide will help you choose the right thickness based on your training needs.

💪 Why Flooring Thickness Matters

• Shock absorption – Thicker floors reduce impact on joints and equipment.

• Safety – Protect users during falls, especially in martial arts.

• Noise & vibration control – Essential in high-density residential or commercial spaces.

• Durability – Thicker mats resist wear better in heavy-use environments.

⚖️ Quick Thickness Guide by Use Case

Activity TypeRecommended ThicknessLight home workouts6mm – 10mmYoga, Pilates10mm – 15mm (foam)Home gym w/ dumbbells15mm – 20mm (rubber)Weightlifting, CrossFit20mm – 40mm (rubber)Heavy lifting w/ drops40mm – 50mm (impact tiles)MMA / BJJ / Judo40mm – 60mm (tatami or PU mats)High-fall martial arts60mm – 80mm (soft foam or crash mats)Sprung floors/dance10mm – 20mm + wood base

🧱 Common Gym Flooring Thickness Options (Singapore Market)

🔸 10mm–15mm Rubber Tiles

• Best for: Light dumbbell use, cardio machines

• Pros: Affordable, compact, easy to install

• Limitations: Not suitable for barbell/dumbbell drops

• Popular product: Armaguard Pro Rubber Tiles 15mm

🔸 20mm–30mm Rubber Tiles

• Best for: Free weights, moderate barbell work

• Pros: Good shock absorption, protects subfloor

• Limitations: May still need plywood underlayer for heavy impact

🔸 30mm–50mm Rubber or Foam Mats

• Best for: Deadlifts, bumper plate drops, CrossFit

• Pros: High durability, excellent impact reduction

• Popular product: Armaguard Judo Mats 30-50mm

🔸 60mm–80mm PU Foam or Crash Mats

• Best for: Martial arts with throws (Judo, Aikido, MMA)

• Pros: Maximum cushioning for fall protection

• Installation tip: Use anti-slip base or velcro linking to prevent shifting

🥋 What Thickness Do Martial Arts Mats Need?

• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ): 40–50mm tatami mats provide ideal grip and safety

• Judo / Aikido: 50–60mm crash mats absorb hard throws

• MMA / Karate / Taekwondo: 20–40mm foam or tatami mats depending on level

Tip: Use puzzle-style EVA mats for entry-level setups, and PU-backed tatami for pro studios.

🏡 Special Consideration for Singapore Homes & Condos

Due to concrete flooring in HDBs and condos:

• Always buffer with underlay (plywood or acoustic rubber) if installing under heavy weights

• Use cast-in flooring or dual-layer systems if noise control is crucial (e.g., for upstairs gyms)

• Check ceiling clearance: 40–50mm mats + underlay may raise floor height significantly

🧼 Is Thicker Always Better?

Not always. Thicker mats:

• Are heavier and harder to move

• May not fit under doors

• Cost more to install and replace

The key is matching thickness to activity. Over-specifying can be wasteful, while under-specifying can be dangerous.

🛠 Need Help Choosing the Right Thickness?

At GymFlooring.sg, we provide tailored recommendations based on:

• Your training needs (weightlifting, martial arts, cardio)

• Type of space (home, condo, commercial gym)

• Acoustic and subfloor requirements

We offer on-site consultation, installation, and custom-cut mats to fit even odd-sized rooms.

💬 Get Expert Advice Now

Thinking of installing or upgrading your gym or martial arts flooring in Singapore?
Contact us at GymFlooring.sg or drop us a message on WhatsApp. Our team will help you choose the perfect material and thickness for your needs.