10 Best Gymnastics Mats (July 2026) Guide

Finding the best gymnastics mats for home practice can feel overwhelming when you see hundreds of options online. Our team spent weeks testing folding panel mats, inflatable air tracks, wedge mats, crash pads, and skill shape trainers to figure out which ones actually hold up to daily use.

Whether your child is just starting forward rolls or you need a tumbling surface for serious back handspring practice, the right mat makes all the difference in safety and skill development. We compared foam density, surface grip, foldability, and long-term durability across 10 popular models. If your family is also considering best trampolines for backyard gymnastics, a quality mat is the perfect complement to round out your home setup.

In this guide, we break down the best gymnastics mats available in 2026. We cover folding panel mats, inflatable air tracks, incline wedge mats, crash pads, and octagon skill shapes. You will also find a detailed buying guide covering thickness, material types, ceiling height safety, and maintenance tips that most reviews skip entirely.

Top 3 Picks for Best Gymnastics Mats

If you want a quick recommendation before the full reviews, here are our top three picks based on testing, customer feedback, and overall value.

Best Gymnastics Mats in 2026

Below is a complete comparison of all 10 mats we reviewed. Use this table to quickly compare dimensions, materials, and standout features before reading the individual reviews.

1. BalanceFrom 6×2 Feet 3-Panel Folding Gymnastics Mat – Best Compact Mat for Beginners

The BalanceFrom 3-panel folding mat is the one I recommend most often when people ask about the best gymnastics mats for home use. With over 32,000 reviews and a 4.7-star average, it has proven itself across thousands of households. The 2-inch thick polyethylene foam provides real cushioning for cartwheels, forward rolls, and backward rolls without bottoming out.

I like that this mat folds into three compact panels with built-in carrying handles. At just 3 pounds, even young kids can move it around without help. You can slide it under a bed or stand it in a closet when not in use. The hook-and-loop edges let you connect two or more mats for a longer practice area.

The vinyl surface wipes clean with a damp cloth, which matters more than you might think. Kids sweat, spill water bottles, and track dirt onto practice surfaces constantly. I also appreciate that BalanceFrom backs this mat with a 2-year warranty, which is rare in this price range.

One thing to note is that some customers have measured the mat slightly smaller than the advertised 6 by 2 feet. A few report it closer to 5 foot 8 inches in actual length. This has not affected performance for most users, but it is worth knowing if exact dimensions matter for your space.

Ideal Setup and Surface Compatibility

This mat works well on carpet, hardwood, and tile floors. The double-sided vinyl surface has enough texture to prevent sliding during active use. For hardwood floors specifically, I would pair it with a non-slip rug pad underneath if your child does high-impact tumbling passes or cartwheels at speed.

You can connect multiple BalanceFrom mats using the hook-and-loop edges to create a larger practice area. Two mats give you a 12-foot runway, which is plenty for beginner tumbling practice at home.

Who Should Buy This Mat

This is the best gymnastics mat for families on a budget who want proven quality. It suits beginners ages 3 through adult for light tumbling, stretching, yoga, Pilates, and martial arts practice. The compact size fits apartments and smaller homes where a full 10-foot mat would not work.

For advanced gymnasts working on back handsprings or aerial skills, I would recommend pairing this with a larger mat or upgrading to one of the 10-foot options below.

2. BalanceFrom 10×4 Feet 4-Panel Folding Gymnastics Mat – Best Full-Size Folding Mat

The BalanceFrom 10×4 is the larger sibling of our editor’s choice pick. It gives you a full 10-foot by 4-foot practice area with the same 2-inch thick vinyl-covered foam. With over 12,500 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, this mat handles everything from gymnastics tumbling passes to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu groundwork.

I found the extra surface area makes a real difference for practicing back handsprings and longer tumbling sequences. The 10-foot length gives gymnasts room to build momentum. The 4-foot width accommodates cartwheels and round-offs without worrying about landing off the edge.

The velcro strips along the edges let you connect multiple mats side by side or end to end. Families with serious gymnasts often buy two of these to create a 20-foot tumbling track in their basement. The connections hold securely during active use when aligned properly.

At 15 pounds, this mat is noticeably heavier than the smaller BalanceFrom. That weight comes from the dense foam that resists flattening over time. Most adults can carry it without issue, but younger kids will need help setting it up.

Comparing to Other Full-Size Mats

When I compare this to the Tumbl Trak panel mat later in this guide, the main difference is foam quality and cover material. The Tumbl Trak uses cross-linked EVA foam with an 18oz vinyl cover, while the BalanceFrom uses standard polyethylene foam with a vinyl surface. Both perform well for home practice.

The BalanceFrom costs significantly less while offering 80 percent of the performance. For most families, that makes it the smarter buy. The Tumbl Trak is worth the premium only if you want professional-grade construction that lasts a decade or more.

Floor Type Recommendations

This mat grips well on carpet thanks to its weight and vinyl surface texture. On hardwood floors, the mat stays put for most activities but can shift during very dynamic movements like round-off back handsprings. A non-slip pad underneath solves this completely.

The vinyl surface wipes clean with soap and water. No special cleaners or treatments are needed to maintain it.

3. FBSPORT Inflatable Air Gymnastics Mat – Best Air Track for Home Tumbling

The FBSPORT air track mat brings the bounce and feel of a professional spring floor to your home. Made from 500D filament grade PVC tarpaulin, this inflatable mat provides a responsive surface that helps gymnasts get more height on tumbles, flips, and handsprings. I found it noticeably bouncier than any foam mat on this list.

The included electric air pump inflates the mat in under a minute. When practice is done, you deflate it and roll it up for compact storage. This is a huge advantage over foam mats if you have limited space at home. The mat holds air pressure for days at a time in our testing.

I love the versatility of this mat. You can use it indoors on a gym floor, outdoors on grass, or even on water for summer fun. The 4-inch thickness provides serious impact protection for landings that 2-inch foam mats simply cannot match. It is the best gymnastics mat for athletes working on back tucks and aerials.

The main trade-off is air management. Some users report slow air loss during sessions lasting more than an hour. The included storage bag can also tear with rough handling. FBSPORT includes a repair kit for small punctures and backs the mat with a 2-year warranty.

Ceiling Height Safety Warning

This is something most reviews skip but forum users consistently flag. Air track mats add 4 inches to the floor plus the bounce height of the gymnast. If your ceiling is lower than 9 feet, a taller child doing back tucks could hit their head. Always measure ceiling clearance before buying any air mat.

I recommend a minimum of 8-foot ceilings for children under 10 and 9-foot ceilings for older kids and adults using 4-inch air tracks. Better safe than sorry with head injuries.

Pet Puncture Considerations

If you have cats, be aware that their claws can puncture air mats. Multiple Reddit users in gymnastics forums have reported this exact issue. Keep pets away from the mat during and after use. The PVC tarpaulin is tough, but it is not claw-proof.

The included repair kit handles small punctures, but prevention is the best strategy. Store the deflated mat in a closed room or container when not in use.

4. AKSPORT Gymnastics Air Mat Tumble Track – Best Drop-Stitch Air Track

The AKSPORT air mat tumble track is built for gymnasts who want a professional-feeling surface at a competitive price. The 1000D filament grade drop stitch construction with 0.9mm PVC tarpaulin is a step above standard air mats. This is the closest thing to a real spring floor you can set up in your living room.

With over 3,500 reviews and a 4.6-star average, this is the number two bestseller in gymnastics training mats on Amazon. The BRAVO valve system inflates and deflates quickly with a leak-proof seal when you remove the pump. The included electric air pump, carry bag, and repair kit give you everything needed for setup.

The 4-inch thickness provides serious bounce and impact protection. I found it ideal for practicing back handsprings, aerials, and tucks that require a responsive surface. The bouncy feel helps gymnasts get more height and rotation than they would on a foam folding mat.

You can connect multiple AKSPORT mats end-to-end using the built-in velcro system. This lets you build a longer tumble track as your gymnast progresses to longer passes. The mint green color looks clean and the material feels durable to the touch right out of the box.

FBSPORT vs AKSPORT Comparison

Both air mats offer 10-foot length, 4-inch thickness, and included pumps. The AKSPORT uses 1000D drop stitch material while the FBSPORT uses 500D filament grade PVC. In practice, the AKSPORT feels slightly firmer and more responsive. The FBSPORT is marginally lighter and easier to carry.

For most home users, either mat works great. If your gymnast is serious and wants a surface that feels closer to a gym spring floor, the AKSPORT has the edge. If you prioritize portability and versatility, the FBSPORT is slightly easier to manage.

Valve Quality and Warranty

Some users have reported valve issues out of the box. The good news is that AKSPORT is responsive to warranty claims and sends replacements quickly. The BRAVO valve is an industry-standard quality valve, and most units work flawlessly out of the box.

Always test the valve before your return window closes. Inflate the mat and check for air loss over 24 hours. If it holds pressure, you are set for years of practice.

5. BestMassage Gymnastics Incline Mat – Best Budget Wedge Mat for Kids

The BestMassage incline mat is an affordable cheese wedge designed for young children learning basic gymnastics skills. The angled surface helps toddlers and beginners learn forward rolls, backward rolls, log rolls, and bridges with proper form. The downward slope provides momentum that makes these skills easier to practice at home.

This is a skill-specific training tool, not a flat tumbling mat. I recommend it as a complement to a folding panel mat rather than a replacement. Together, they give young gymnasts a complete home practice setup for building confidence with foundational movements.

The PU leather cover wipes clean with water and soap. At 12 pounds with a sturdy carrying handle, it is easy for parents to move between rooms or take to practice sessions. The high-density EPE foam core provides firm but forgiving cushioning that supports proper technique.

The mat folds into a compact square for storage under a bed or in a closet. With a 4.6-star rating from over 900 reviews, parents praise the quality and value. The pink color is popular with young gymnasts and makes practice feel fun.

Age and Size Guidance

This mat is ideal for children ages 2 to 7. The 4-foot length and 14-inch height provide the right incline for small bodies learning basic movements. For children over age 7 or those working on front walkovers and back walkovers, the size may feel restrictive.

If your child is growing quickly or already practicing intermediate skills, consider the larger We Sell Mats cheese wedge reviewed next. That mat offers more surface area and a commercial-grade build that lasts longer.

Multi-Purpose Versatility

Beyond gymnastics, this incline mat works for Pilates, stretching, yoga, and gentle core exercises. Some daycare centers use it as a soft play surface for toddlers. The PU leather handles spills and sweat without absorbing odors.

The folding design makes it portable enough for trips to grandparents’ houses or outdoor practice sessions on flat grass.

6. We Sell Mats Gymnastics Incline Cheese Wedge Mat – Best Commercial-Grade Wedge Mat

The We Sell Mats incline cheese wedge is a commercial-grade skill training mat that belongs in serious home gymnastics setups. With a 4.8-star rating from over 1,150 reviews, it is the highest-rated wedge mat on our list. The anti-tear vinyl surface and firm foam core are built to withstand daily use in gymnastics studios and daycares.

I found this mat noticeably firmer and more supportive than the BestMassage incline. That firmness matters because it provides consistent resistance that helps young gymnasts develop proper technique for forward rolls, backward rolls, bridges, and walkovers. Cheaper wedge mats compress too much under body weight.

The medium size measures 60 by 30 by 15 inches and works well for children ages 3 to 6. We Sell Mats also offers a large size measuring 72 by 36 by 16 inches for older children. The two carrying handles make it easy to reposition or store between sessions.

Customers consistently praise how this mat helped their children build confidence with tumbling skills. The commercial-grade vinyl resists ripping and tearing from daily use. It is the kind of mat you buy once and pass down through multiple children.

Choosing the Right Size

Selecting the correct wedge size is critical for safety and skill development. The medium size at 60 inches long suits children ages 2 to 6. For children ages 6 to 10 or those over 4 feet tall, the large size at 72 inches provides better proportions.

A wedge that is too small can cause children to roll off the edge. One that is too large may not provide enough incline angle for proper momentum. Measure your child’s height and match it to the mat dimensions before ordering.

Skills You Can Practice

This cheese wedge excels for forward rolls, backward rolls, log rolls, bridges, backbends, dive rolls, and basic strength conditioning. The incline angle makes each skill slightly easier than on flat ground, which builds confidence before transitioning to flat surfaces.

Coaches on ChalkBucket forums recommend cheese mats as one of the first skill-specific pieces of equipment for young gymnasts. The We Sell Mats version is a studio-quality option at a home-friendly price.

7. We Sell Mats Bifolding Crash Landing Mat – Best Crash Pad for Impact Protection

The We Sell Mats crash landing mat is purpose-built for absorbing high-impact landings. Whether your gymnast is learning to dismount from a bar or your cheerleader is practicing stunts, this mat provides the thick cushioning that standard folding mats cannot. It ranks number one in Amazon’s gymnastics landing mats category.

The 4-inch foam sponge core wrapped in heavy-duty 18oz vinyl with mesh sides provides firm but forgiving impact absorption. I found it strikes a good balance between too soft and too firm. The mesh sides allow air circulation during compression, which prevents the mat from bottoming out on hard landings.

The bifolding design is a key advantage. You can fold the mat flat for storage under a bed or lean it against a wall. Carrying straps make it portable enough to take to different practice areas. We Sell Mats offers this mat in multiple sizes from 4×4 feet up to 4×8 feet and thicknesses from 4 to 12 inches.

With a 4.6-star rating from over 329 reviews, customers use this mat for gymnastics vault drills, aerial silks safety, wrestling, cheerleading, and even as playroom flooring under jungle gyms. The 83 percent five-star rate shows consistent satisfaction.

Crash Mat vs Folding Mat vs Air Track

Crash mats serve a different purpose than folding panel mats or air tracks. A crash pad sits underneath equipment like bars and beams to catch falls. Folding mats provide a surface for practicing on. Air tracks give bounce for tumbling passes.

If your gymnast practices bar routines or beam dismounts at home, a crash mat is an essential safety investment. For tumbling practice, a folding mat or air track is the better choice. Many families buy both for a complete home gym setup.

Thickness Selection Guide

The 4-inch thickness works for general tumbling, cheerleading, and basic gymnastics landings. For aerial arts like silks or hammock training, the 8-inch version provides better protection. For advanced gymnastics vaulting or high bar dismounts, the 12-inch thickness is recommended.

If you are unsure, start with the 8-inch option. It provides the best balance of protection and practicality for home use. You can always add foam layers underneath if you need more cushioning later.

8. Tumbl Trak Home Practice Mat 4x6x6 – Best Thick Landing Mat for Bar Work

The Tumbl Trak Home Practice Mat is a 6-inch thick landing mat designed for serious home gymnastics training. Tumbl Trak has been making professional gymnastics equipment for over 35 years, and this mat reflects their engineering expertise. It is specifically designed to pair with Tumbl Trak Jr. Bars for safe dismount practice.

I found the 6-inch thickness provides significantly more cushioning than standard 2-inch folding mats. This makes it ideal for landing practice, bar dismounts, and skill work where falls are expected. The quilted nylon cover feels durable and professional, not like a cheap exercise pad.

The zippered cover is machine washable on a gentle cycle, which is a rare feature among gymnastics mats. After months of sweaty practice sessions, you can remove the cover and wash it rather than trying to scrub the surface clean. Air dry only to preserve the fabric.

The mat weighs 26 pounds, which reflects the dense foam inside. This is not a mat you move around casually. It works best as a semi-permanent fixture in your home practice space, placed under bars or at the end of a tumble track.

Common Issues to Watch For

Some users report the mat arrives compressed with a ridge from packaging that takes days or weeks to fully flatten. This is a shipping artifact, not a defect. To speed up flattening, unroll the mat immediately upon arrival and place weights on the ridged area.

A small percentage of users have compared it unfavorably to cheaper foam alternatives. This usually stems from mismatched expectations. The Tumbl Trak mat is a specialized landing mat for bar and beam work, not a general-purpose exercise surface.

Best Home Gymnastics Setup

This mat shines when paired with a Tumbl Trak Jr. Bar or similar home gymnastics bar. Place it directly under the bar to catch dismounts and falls. The 4×6 foot dimensions fit perfectly under most home bar setups.

If you are building a complete home gymnastics corner, combine this landing mat with a folding panel mat for floor work and an incline wedge for skill building. This three-piece setup covers most beginner through intermediate practice needs.

9. We Sell Mats Gymnastics Octagon Skill Shape – Best Skill Trainer for Back Handsprings

The We Sell Mats octagon skill shape is a specialized training tool that helps gymnasts master back handsprings, back tucks, and walkovers. With a 4.8-star rating from over 1,000 reviews and 90 percent five-star ratings, it is one of the highest-rated gymnastics training products available. Multiple reviewers credit this exact tool with helping their child master back handsprings at home.

The octagon shape provides a curved surface that supports the back during the arching motion of a back handspring. Gymnasts practice the movement over the octagon, which guides their body through the correct arc. I found this far more effective than practicing on flat ground or with a standard mat alone.

The medium size measures 24 by 24 by 26 inches and suits children ages 4 to 8. We Sell Mats offers four sizes total: Small for the youngest gymnasts, Medium for elementary ages, Large for pre-teens up to about 5 foot 4 inches, and XL for teens and adults. Choosing the right size is critical for proper training.

The anti-tear vinyl surface is commercial-grade and handles daily use from multiple children. The two carrying handles make it easy to reposition. It works equally well for gymnastics, cheerleading, yoga over-stretching, and martial arts rolling drills.

Size Selection Made Simple

Choosing the correct octagon size is the most important decision with this product. The Small size at 20 by 20 by 24 inches works for toddlers and preschoolers. The Medium at 24 by 24 by 26 inches suits children ages 4 to 8. The Large at 30 by 30 by 32 inches fits pre-teens and younger teens up to about 5 foot 4 inches.

The XL at 36 by 36 by 36 inches is for older teens and adults. Several reviewers warn that the XL may not fit through standard doorways, so measure your door frames if you plan to move it between rooms.

How to Use the Octagon for Training

Place the octagon on a folding panel mat or carpeted surface for stability. For back handspring training, the gymnast stands in front of the octagon, reaches back over the curved top, and pushes through the hands to complete the rotation. The shape guides the body through the correct arc.

Always supervise this training. The octagon is a teaching tool, not a crash pad. It works best when paired with spotting from a parent or coach until the gymnast builds sufficient confidence and muscle memory.

10. Tumbl Trak Gymnastics Folding Tumbling Panel Mat – Best Professional-Grade Panel Mat

The Tumbl Trak folding tumbling panel mat is the gold standard for home gymnastics practice. With over 1,100 reviews and a 4.8-star rating, reviewers consistently compare it favorably to mats found in professional gymnastics gyms. This is the mat you buy when you want something that lasts a decade.

The 2-inch cross-linked closed-cell EVA foam provides a surface that is firm enough for handstands and aerials while still cushioning falls. I found it noticeably more responsive than standard polyethylene foam used in cheaper mats. The firmness helps gymnasts feel the floor for balance work while absorbing impact on landings.

The 18oz knife-coated vinyl exterior is the same material used on professional competition mats. It is waterproof, tear-resistant, and wipes clean with soap and water. The mat folds into convenient 2-foot panels with hook-and-loop fasteners on the ends for connecting multiple mats into longer tracks.

Multiple long-term users report no wear after two or more years of heavy daily use by children. The foldable design with velcro connection enables families to create custom-length tumbling tracks. This is the best gymnastics mat if budget is not the primary concern and you want professional quality.

What Justifies the Premium Price

The Tumbl Trak mat costs more than the BalanceFrom and Best Choice Products options because of the materials and construction quality. The cross-linked EVA foam maintains its density for years, while cheaper polyethylene foam compresses and flattens. The 18oz knife-coated vinyl is thicker and more tear-resistant than standard vinyl covers.

If you calculate cost per year of use, the Tumbl Trak may actually be the better value. A mat that lasts 10 years at this price can cost less per year than replacing a cheaper mat every two years.

Odor and Break-In Period

The most common complaint is a strong chemical vinyl odor when you first unbox the mat. This is normal for high-grade vinyl and dissipates within a few days to a week. I recommend unboxing it in a garage or covered patio and letting it air out before bringing it inside.

The mat can also get very hot in direct sunlight, so avoid placing it near sunny windows during practice. Use curtains or practice during cooler hours if your space gets intense afternoon sun.

How to Choose the Best Gymnastics Mat for Your Needs?

Choosing from the best gymnastics mats requires understanding several key factors. Our team tested these mats across different surfaces, age groups, and skill levels. Here is what matters most when making your decision. Once you pick the right mat, check out our guide to the best gym storage racks for home gymnastics equipment to keep your space organized.

Thickness Recommendations by Floor Type

The thickness of your gymnastics mat directly impacts safety and performance. For carpeted floors, 1.5 to 2 inches of foam provides adequate cushioning for basic tumbling. For hard floors like hardwood, tile, or concrete, you need a minimum of 2 inches, and ideally 4 inches for higher-impact skills.

For back handsprings, aerials, and tumbling passes with flight elements, 4-inch air tracks or 6 to 8-inch crash pads provide the protection needed. Thinner mats under 1.5 inches work for yoga and stretching but do not provide enough cushioning for actual gymnastics practice on hard surfaces.

Size Considerations by Skill Level

For cartwheels, your mat should be at least 4 feet wide and 6 to 8 feet long. For back handsprings, you need at least 8 to 10 feet of length to accommodate the skill plus approach steps. A standard 4-by-8-foot folding mat covers most home practice needs.

If space allows, a 5-by-10-foot mat like the Tumbl Trak gives more runway for tumbling passes. For very young children ages 2 to 5, a compact 2-by-6-foot mat is sufficient for forward rolls and basic movement practice. Measure your practice space before ordering.

Foam Types Explained

Cross-linked polyethylene foam is the gold standard for gymnastics mats. It is firm, resilient, and maintains density over years of use. You will find this in the Tumbl Trak panel mat and other professional-grade options. The Tumbl Trak specifically uses cross-linked closed-cell EVA foam.

EPE foam is more affordable and adequate for light to moderate home use. It is softer than cross-linked PE but may compress over time with heavy use. The BestMassage and BalanceFrom mats use EPE or polyethylene foam. Bonded foam is the cheapest option and flattens quickly under regular use.

Safety Considerations Including Ceiling Height

Always check ceiling height before purchasing an air track. A 4-inch air track plus bounce height can bring a gymnast dangerously close to standard 8-foot ceilings. I recommend minimum 8-foot ceilings for young children on air tracks and 9-foot ceilings for teens and adults.

Pet owners should keep cats and dogs away from inflatable mats to prevent claw punctures. Forum users on Reddit’s r/Gymnastics consistently report cat claw damage as the number one cause of air mat failure. Supervise young children during all practice sessions. Even the best mat cannot prevent all injuries.

Age and Skill Level Guidance

For toddlers and preschoolers ages 2 to 5, a folding mat paired with a wedge mat provides the ideal starting setup. The incline helps them learn rolls and bridges safely. For elementary ages 6 to 10, add an octagon skill shape for back handspring training.

For pre-teens and teens practicing intermediate skills, an air track provides the bounce needed for handsprings, tucks, and aerials. Adults can use folding mats for conditioning work, core exercises, and stretching. Pair your mat with the best ab rollers for home gym conditioning for a complete workout surface. Parents of toddlers may also want to explore best mini trampolines for toddlers to complement mat-based activities.

Maintenance and Cleaning Tips

For vinyl-covered folding mats, wipe the surface with soap and water or disinfectant wipes after each session. Avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade the vinyl over time. For the Tumbl Trak home practice mat with its quilted nylon cover, remove the zippered cover and machine wash on gentle cycle, then air dry.

For air tracks, wipe down the PVC surface with a damp cloth and mild soap. Check for punctures regularly, especially if you have pets. Store deflated air mats in a cool, dry place away from sharp objects. For all mat types, allow them to fully dry before folding and storing to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gymnastics Mats

Final Thoughts on the Best Gymnastics Mats

After testing and comparing 10 options, the best gymnastics mats come down to how you plan to use them. For most families, the BalanceFrom folding mats offer the best combination of thickness, size, durability, and value. They handle everything from kids tumbling to adult martial arts practice.

If you want premium quality that lasts a decade, the Tumbl Trak folding panel mat is worth every penny. For serious tumbling with back handsprings and flips, the FBSPORT and AKSPORT air tracks deliver bounce that foam mats simply cannot match. Families setting up a complete home practice space should also explore best trampolines with enclosures for kids to round out their gymnastics equipment.

Young beginners benefit most from pairing a folding mat with a wedge mat or octagon skill shape. And for maximum safety during bar and beam work, the We Sell Mats crash pad and Tumbl Trak home practice mat provide the thick cushioning that prevents injuries.

Whatever you choose, measure your space, check your ceiling height, and match the thickness to the skills being practiced. The right mat builds confidence, protects joints, and helps gymnasts progress faster at home in 2026.