AIREX Exercise Mats and Balance Pads: Which Model to Choose?

A good exercise mat is more than just a soft surface between your body and the floor. In rehabilitation, physiotherapy and regular home exercise, cushioning, grip, material durability, hygiene and an appropriate size are also important. A mat that is too thin may cause discomfort around the knees, elbows or back, while a very soft and unstable surface is not necessarily suitable for strength exercises or for someone with significant balance problems.

AIREX is one of the best-known manufacturers of professional exercise mats and balance products. Its products are used in physiotherapy practices, rehabilitation centres, sports clubs, group exercise classes and home training. The Fiziopreces.lv range includes AIREX exercise mats in several sizes as well as balance pads with different levels of firmness, size and instability.

In this product guide, we compare the main models and explain which AIREX product is most suitable for different training and rehabilitation needs.

What is AIREX?

AIREX is a Swiss brand whose history dates back to 1952. Its exercise mats and balance products are manufactured in Switzerland, and the brand is particularly well known for its durable foam material designed for professional exercise, movement therapy and rehabilitation.

AIREX’s reputation is based primarily on material properties and durability rather than decorative design. The mats provide consistent cushioning, are easy to maintain and are designed for repeated use both at home and in professional environments.

AIREX exercise mats and balance products are intended not only for fitness but also for movement therapy. AIREX identifies many of its mats and balance products as medical devices in accordance with the European Medical Device Regulation (EU) 2017/745.

However, a high-quality mat does not treat an injury by itself and does not automatically make every exercise safe. Its purpose is to provide an appropriate, comfortable and stable—or deliberately unstable—surface for exercise.

How are AIREX mats different from cheaper exercise mats?

At first glance, many exercise mats look similar, but the differences become more noticeable with regular use.

AIREX material provides good cushioning, particularly during exercises performed lying down, on all fours, kneeling or supported on the elbows. This can be particularly useful for people with sensitive knees, after surgery or during the early stages of rehabilitation when prolonged contact with a hard floor is uncomfortable.

The mats are made from closed-cell foam, which does not absorb water in the same way as porous fabric or open-cell foam. This makes them easier to clean and is particularly important in physiotherapy clinics and sports facilities where the same mat may be used by several people. Depending on the model, AIREX products have slip-resistant, easy-to-clean surfaces with integrated hygiene protection.

Another advantage is durability. Lower-cost mats may crack, stretch, become slippery or permanently deform relatively quickly. AIREX products are more expensive, but in a professional environment the higher purchase price may be offset by a longer usable life and more consistent material properties.

Main AIREX exercise mats available at Fiziopreces.lv

AIREX Fitline 180 – a practical option for home exercise

AIREX Fitline 180 exercise mat is approximately 180 cm long, 60 cm wide and 1 cm thick. It is relatively lightweight, easy to roll up and suitable for someone looking for a high-quality mat for home exercise, mobility training, Pilates, stretching or straightforward rehabilitation exercises.

Fitline is thinner than the Coronella or Corona models, making it more compact and easier to transport. However, for someone with very sensitive knees or who spends a considerable amount of time exercising on the floor, the 1 cm thickness may not be as comfortable as a 1.5 or 2.5 cm mat.

Fitline 180 is particularly suitable for:

• home exercise;
• Pilates and mobility exercises;
• group fitness classes;
• users looking for a lighter and more affordable AIREX model.

AIREX Coronella 185 – the most versatile option

AIREX Coronella 185 is one of the most versatile AIREX exercise mats. Its approximate dimensions are 185 × 60 × 1.5 cm. Compared with Fitline, it is thicker and more comfortable for exercises performed on the knees, side, back or elbows.

Coronella 185 works well both at home and in a physiotherapy clinic. Its width is sufficient for most individual exercises, while its 185 cm length allows most users to lie comfortably on the mat.

It provides a good compromise between:

• comfort;
• size;
• durability;
• portability;
• suitability for both home and professional use.

Of the standard AIREX exercise mats, Coronella 185 will be the most versatile choice for many individual users.

AIREX Coronella 200 – a longer mat for more space

AIREX Coronella 200 retains the main features of Coronella 185 but is approximately 200 cm long. It is suitable for taller people or exercises that require more space to fully extend the body, arms or legs.

The extra length can also be useful in physiotherapy when performing exercises with a larger range of movement. If space is limited and 185 cm is sufficient, Coronella 185 is the more compact option. If a larger exercise area is the priority, Coronella 200 may be more suitable.

AIREX Corona 185 – more space for physiotherapy

AIREX Corona 185 is approximately 185 cm long, 100 cm wide and 1.5 cm thick. Its main difference from Coronella is the considerably greater width. A 100 cm-wide surface provides more space for exercises, transitions between positions and for a physiotherapist working together with a patient.

This model is particularly suitable for:

• rehabilitation clinics;
• paediatric physiotherapy;
• neurological rehabilitation;
• exercises involving wider movements;
• people who do not feel secure on a narrow exercise mat.

Corona 185 is also very comfortable for home use, although it requires more floor space and is less practical for frequent transport.

AIREX Atlas – an extra-large exercise area

AIREX Atlas measures approximately 200 × 125 × 1.5 cm and is one of the largest AIREX mats. It is suitable for exercises involving larger movements, paediatric rehabilitation, individual therapy and situations where both the patient and therapist need to be positioned on the mat.

Atlas will generally be unnecessarily large for everyday home exercise in a small room, but it can be very practical in a physiotherapy clinic, rehabilitation centre or paediatric setting.

AIREX Hercules – maximum cushioning and comfort

AIREX Hercules is approximately 200 × 100 × 2.5 cm. Its main advantage is its greater thickness and cushioning. Hercules is particularly useful when a very soft therapeutic surface is required.

This model is better suited to professional rehabilitation than ordinary fitness training. It can be useful when working with people who find prolonged contact with a hard surface uncomfortable, as well as in paediatric and neurological physiotherapy.

AIREX balance pads – how do the different models compare?

An AIREX Balance Pad is not simply a soft cushion. The foam deforms under body weight and creates controlled instability. This increases the demands on balance control, body-position awareness and joint stabilisation.

For more about the role of balance exercises, read our article Why Is Balance Training So Important?

AIREX Balance Pad – the classic model

The classic AIREX Balance Pad has a smooth surface and measures approximately 48 × 40 × 6 cm. It is a good option for an introduction to unstable-surface exercises, ankle rehabilitation, single-leg support and basic coordination exercises.

On a smooth floor, it may be useful to place a non-slip exercise mat underneath the Balance Pad. Initially, balance exercises should be performed close to a wall, table or another stable support.

AIREX Balance Pad Elite – textured and versatile

AIREX Balance Pad Elite measures approximately 48 × 40 × 6 cm. Unlike the classic model, it has a waffle-textured surface on both sides. This improves grip and provides additional sensory input to the feet when exercising barefoot or in socks.

Elite is a versatile option for both rehabilitation and fitness. It can be used for:

• single-leg standing;
• weight shifting;
• squats and lunges;
• ankle and knee rehabilitation;
• upper-limb support exercises;
• core training.

AIREX Balance Pad Cloud – a greater balance challenge

AIREX Balance Pad Cloud is softer and more unstable than the standard Balance Pad or Elite. It therefore creates a greater balance challenge and is more suitable for athletes, experienced users or later stages of rehabilitation.

Cloud should not automatically be considered better simply because it is more difficult. For someone recovering from a recent injury, an older adult with a high risk of falling or a person with poor postural control, an excessively unstable surface may reduce exercise quality.

In these situations, it is generally safer to begin on stable flooring, progress to a standard Balance Pad or Elite and only later introduce Cloud.

AIREX Balance Pad Solid – firmer for functional exercises

Balance Pad Solid is denser and firmer than the classic models. It compresses less and is intended for more dynamic functional exercises, athletic preparation and situations where an unstable but mechanically firmer surface is preferred.

Solid can be a useful progression for athletes, but it is not necessarily the best choice for someone looking for a soft surface for basic balance exercises.

AIREX Balance Pad Mini – compact for single-limb exercises

Balance Pad Mini measures approximately 41 × 25 × 6 cm. Its smaller size makes it convenient for supporting one foot or one hand, travelling and targeted functional exercises.

The smaller support area itself increases the precision required, so Mini is not necessarily the easiest option for a beginner. It is better suited to targeted single-limb work.

AIREX Balance Pad XLarge – for wider stances and movement

AIREX Balance Pad XLarge measures approximately 98 × 41 × 6 cm—almost twice the length of the Elite. It allows exercises with both feet, wider stances, stepping and different transitions to be performed without leaving the soft surface.

XLarge can be particularly useful for:

• weight-shifting exercises;
• squats with a wider stance;
• lateral stepping;
• double-leg standing exercises;
• patients who find a standard Balance Pad too small.

AIREX Balance Beam – for gait and dynamic balance

AIREX Balance Beam is approximately 160 cm long, 24 cm wide and 6 cm thick. Its shape allows walking along a narrower deformable surface, forward and lateral stepping, weight shifting and gait-control exercises.

It can be useful in physiotherapy practices, sports rehabilitation and coordination training. People with an increased risk of falling should perform these exercises close to a stable support or under professional supervision.

Quick comparison of AIREX products

Model	Approximate size	Best suited for
Fitline 180	180 × 60 × 1 cm	Home exercise, Pilates and mobility
Coronella 185	185 × 60 × 1.5 cm	Versatile exercise and rehabilitation
Coronella 200	200 × 60 × 1.5 cm	Taller users and greater exercise length
Corona 185	185 × 100 × 1.5 cm	Physiotherapy and a wider exercise area
Atlas	200 × 125 × 1.5 cm	Professional rehabilitation and paediatric work
Hercules	200 × 100 × 2.5 cm	Maximum comfort and cushioning
Balance Pad / Elite	48 × 40 × 6 cm	Balance and rehabilitation
Balance Pad Cloud	48 × 40 × 6 cm	Advanced users
Balance Pad Mini	41 × 25 × 6 cm	Single-limb exercises
Balance Pad XLarge	98 × 41 × 6 cm	Wider steps and double-leg stance
Balance Beam	160 × 24 × 6 cm	Gait and dynamic balance

Dimensions are approximate manufacturer specifications, and small manufacturing tolerances may occur with individual products.

Which AIREX model is most suitable?

For home exercise

For home exercise, Fitline 180 or Coronella 185 will usually be sufficient. Fitline is lighter and more economical, while Coronella provides greater comfort and cushioning.

For people with sensitive knees or back discomfort

If you spend longer periods exercising lying down, on all fours or kneeling, a 1.5 cm Coronella or Corona will generally provide more cushioning. If an especially soft surface is required, Hercules can be considered, although for most home users it will be larger and more expensive than necessary.

For a physiotherapy clinic

A versatile combination for a physiotherapy practice would be a Corona 185 or Atlas together with a Balance Pad Elite. This provides options for exercises performed lying down as well as standing support, balance and coordination exercises.

For a beginner in balance training

A standard Balance Pad or Elite is usually more suitable for a beginner. Cloud is a progression rather than necessarily the first choice.

For an athlete

Elite, Cloud or Solid can be incorporated into sports rehabilitation and functional training. The choice depends on whether the goal is greater instability, a firmer surface or more dynamic functional tasks.

For gait and weight-shifting exercises

For wider steps, double-leg standing and weight shifting, XLarge offers more usable space. For gait exercises and tasks with a narrower support area, Balance Beam may be more appropriate.

AIREX products for older adults and people with osteoporosis

Balance exercises can be an important part of a fall-risk reduction programme, but soft unstable surfaces should be introduced gradually. A person should first be able to control standing safely on stable flooring. A Balance Pad can then be introduced close to a wall, chair or handrail, or with a professional nearby.

It is important to understand that exercising on a Balance Pad is not in itself the main method for improving bone strength. For osteoporosis, appropriate weight-bearing activity, progressive strength exercise and individually selected loading are also important. The main role of balance exercise in this context is to improve stability and help reduce fall risk.

Read more in our article about physical activity for osteoporosis.

If someone has previously experienced a spinal or hip fracture, significant dizziness, repeated falls or serious balance problems, exercise difficulty should be selected together with a physiotherapist.

Do AIREX mats have any disadvantages?

The main disadvantage is price. An AIREX exercise mat costs more than a basic PVC or TPE fitness mat. Larger models such as Corona, Atlas and Hercules also require considerable storage space and are less practical for frequent transport.

A soft exercise mat is not the ideal surface for:

• heavy barbell lifting;
• maximum-strength exercises performed standing;
• sprinting;
• rapid changes of direction;
• exercises requiring a completely firm support surface.

For these activities, a stable gym floor is generally more appropriate.

Similarly, a very soft Balance Pad is not appropriate for every person or every stage of rehabilitation. Greater instability does not automatically mean a better exercise. The difficulty of the surface should match the person’s ability to maintain controlled movement.

How should AIREX products be cleaned and stored?

For routine cleaning, lukewarm water with a small amount of mild soap or detergent is generally sufficient. After cleaning, the mat or Balance Pad should be wiped down or allowed to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area.

A damp product should not immediately be rolled up, placed in a bag or stored in a closed cupboard. Sharp objects and abrasive cleaning products should also be avoided, and the mat should not be left for prolonged periods close to a strong heat source.

Before exercising, check that both the floor and the underside of the mat are clean and dry. Even a high-quality slip-resistant surface can move if dust, moisture or cleaning-product residue is present underneath it.

Summary

AIREX is a high-quality Swiss brand whose exercise mats and balance products are suitable for home users as well as physiotherapists, rehabilitation centres and sports facilities.

Fitline 180 is a practical option for everyday home training. Coronella 185 is the most versatile standard mat, while Coronella 200 is suitable for users who want greater length. Corona, Atlas and Hercules provide wider and more comfortable surfaces for professional rehabilitation.

Among the balance products, Balance Pad Elite is one of the most versatile options. Cloud, Solid, Mini, XLarge and Balance Beam make it possible to adapt the difficulty, size of the support area and type of exercise more precisely.

View all AIREX exercise mats and balance products available at Fiziopreces.lv.

References

AIREX®. Exercise Mats and Balance Products – Product Information and Instructions for Use.

AIREX AG. Declaration and product information under Regulation (EU) 2017/745 on medical devices.

AIREX®. Coronella, Corona, Atlas, Hercules and Fitline exercise mat specifications.

AIREX®. Balance Pad, Balance Pad Elite, Cloud, XLarge and Balance Beam product specifications.

Royal Osteoporosis Society. Exercise and physical activity for osteoporosis and bone health.

Sherrington C, et al. Exercise for preventing falls in older people living in the community. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2019.

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Is a Thicker Exercise Mat Always Better?

Aigars Caune
Physiotherapist

No. A thicker mat is generally more comfortable for exercises performed lying down, kneeling or supported on the elbows, but a very soft surface can increase instability during standing exercises. In rehabilitation, mat thickness should be selected according to the purpose of the exercise. If comfort on the floor is the priority, Coronella, Corona or Hercules may be suitable. If precise strength development and firm support while standing are required, the exercise is usually better performed on a stable surface.

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