Abstract: A method of applying an athletic mat to a base surface comprises the steps of spreading a layer of rubber particles on the base surface. Although there may be some preparation (e.g., cleaning, material removal, etc.) of the base surface before the first layer of rubber particles is spread thereon, the first layer of rubber particles is applied without the necessity of a tack coating or primer layer. A first layer of binder is applied over the previously spread layer of rubber particles, with the binder having a viscosity to at least partially permeate through the layer of rubber particles. Accordingly, the first layer of rubber particles is bonded to the underlying surface when the first layer of binder dries. A separate, second layer of binder is applied over the first layer of binder preferably while the latter is still wet.