Many of us have a basic understanding of yoga clothes. Here, we will delve into the topic of yoga props, including blocks, straps, bolsters, and blankets, can help support and elevate your yoga practice, regardless of your experience level. They can assist with stability, balance, alignment, flexibility, and comfort in various poses. Using props is not a sign of weakness, but rather a component of an intelligent and evolving practice.
Blocks
Yoga blocks are versatile props that can bring the ground closer, deepen stretches, aid alignment in balancing poses, and provide support for releasing tension.
Materials: Yoga blocks are available in foam, cork, and wood.
Size: The most common yoga block size is 4″x 6″x 9″.
How to use: Blocks can be used in a variety of ways to modify and enhance yoga postures.
Blocks can stabilize, support balance, enhance muscle engagement, and improve alignment.
Straps
Yoga straps are useful for extending reach, increasing flexibility, and assisting with balance. They are particularly helpful for those with tight shoulders or hamstrings.
Materials: Yoga straps come in different fabrics, such as cotton and polyester blends.
Length: An 8ft strap is generally sufficient, but taller individuals may prefer a 10ft strap.
Buckle: Metal D-ring buckles are easy to use.
How to use: Straps can help you get deeper into poses, create traction, and improve range of motion.
Straps can assist you deeper into a pose by adding an extension to your limbs and they are also a great tool for facilitating flexibility, especially in the shoulders and hamstrings.
Bolsters
Yoga bolsters provide comfort, cushioning, and support for better alignment in restorative postures, Yin Yoga, and deep breathing exercises.
Shapes and Sizes: Bolsters come in various shapes and sizes, including rectangular, round, and lean shapes.
Rectangular bolsters are versatile and offer more coverage, while round bolsters help create a deeper arch in the body.
How to use: Bolsters can be used to support the body in various poses, promoting relaxation and openness.
They can be used in reclined heart openers, forward folds, seated meditation, and pranayama practices.
Benefits: Bolsters relieve stress, tension and joint pain. They also have a soothing effect on the mind and nervous system and improves blood circulation and reduce inflammation.
Blankets
Yoga blankets provide padding, support, warmth, and can be folded to different heights for use in a variety of poses.
Materials: Yoga blankets are available in wool and cotton.
How to use: Blankets can be used to provide cushioning under knees or hips, support seated postures, or offer warmth during Savasana.
Benefits: Blankets help you to stay longer and get maximum benefit from recovery poses, prevent bad posture with subtle adjustment and relieve stress, tension and joint pain.
How do I choose the right prop for yoga practice?
Choosing the right props for your practice involves understanding the different types of props available, assessing your specific needs and goals, and considering practical factors like budget and storage. Here’s a comprehensive guide:
Understand Types of Props
Yoga Mats: Essential for providing a non-slip surface and cushioning.
Blocks: Help bring the floor closer, support alignment, and deepen stretches.
Straps: Extend reach, improve flexibility, and aid in maintaining proper posture.
Bolsters: Offer support for restorative poses, relaxation, and gentle openings.
Blankets: Provide warmth, cushioning, and support in various poses.
Meditation Cushions/Zafus: Promote comfortable and upright seated posture during meditation.
Resistance Bands: Add challenge to strength-building exercises and assist in stretching.
Pilates Balls: Enhance core stability, balance, and body awareness.
Foam Rollers: Used for self-myofascial release, easing muscle tension and improving flexibility.
Wedges: Support specific body parts, enhance spinal alignment, and deepen stretches.
Define Your Needs and Goals
Type of Practice:
Yoga: Prioritize mats, blocks, straps, bolsters, and blankets.
Pilates: Focus on mats, resistance bands, Pilates balls, and foam rollers.
Meditation: Select meditation cushions/zafus, blankets, and bolsters.
General Fitness: Consider resistance bands, foam rollers, and stability balls.
Fitness Level:
Beginners: Need supportive props like blocks, straps, and bolsters to aid alignment and prevent injury.
Intermediate/Advanced: May prefer props that enhance challenge, such as resistance bands, weights, and specialized yoga tools.
Specific Goals:
Flexibility: Straps, blocks, and foam rollers can help improve range of motion.
Strength: Resistance bands, weights, and stability balls can add intensity to workouts.
Relaxation: Bolsters, blankets, and meditation cushions support restorative practices.
Injury Rehabilitation: Specialized props like wedges or supportive cushions may be necessary.
Evaluate Prop Materials and Quality
Yoga Mats:
TPE: Lightweight, recyclable, and provides good grip.
Jute: Natural fiber, good grip, and eco-friendly.
Blocks:
Foam: Lightweight, soft, and comfortable.
Cork: Firm, stable, and eco-friendly.
Straps:
Cotton: Soft, comfortable, and durable.
Nylon: Strong, less stretch, and easy to clean.
Bolsters:
Cotton: Soft, breathable, and easy to maintain.
Polyester: Durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean.
Resistance Bands:
Latex: Durable, provides consistent resistance.
Latex-Free: Suitable for individuals with latex allergies.
Foam Rollers:
EVA Foam: Soft to medium density, good for beginners.
High-Density Foam: Firm, provides deeper tissue massage.
Consider Size and Dimensions
Yoga Mats: Standard size is 24 x 68 inches, but longer and wider mats are available for taller individuals or those who prefer more space.
Blocks: Standard sizes are 3x6x9 inches or 4x6x9 inches. Choose based on hand size and flexibility.
Straps: Standard length is 6, 8, or 10 feet. Longer straps are useful for those with limited flexibility.
Bolsters: Available in various shapes (round, rectangular, cylindrical) and sizes. Choose based on the poses you intend to use them for.
Meditation Cushions: Standard sizes range from 12-18 inches in diameter and 4-8 inches in height.
Test Before You Buy
In-Store Testing: If possible, try out props in person to assess comfort and suitability.
Return Policies: Check return policies to ensure you can return props that don’t meet your needs.
What budget options should I consider for Yoga props?
Budgeting for yoga apparel like yoga sports bras and high-waisted yoga pants is easy for us, but budgeting for props is not.
Here are some budget-friendly options for yoga props, based on the search results:
Yoga Blocks
Foam blocks are the most affordable and versatile option. They start as low as $7.99
$7.99 for a single block(4″x6″x9″)and can go down to $10.99 for a two-pack. Avoid cork or wood blocks, as they are pricier and less comfortable for certain poses.
Household substitutes: Use stacks of books, Tupperware containers, or folded blankets.
Yoga Straps
Opt for 8–10 ft cotton straps with D-ring buckles, which cost
$6–$8 (e.g., ProSource or Sunshine Yoga brands).
Alternatives: Use a belt, scarf, or resistance band from home.
Yoga Blankets
Mexican-style blankets are durable, washable, and affordable. Individual blankets start around $16.99, while bulk packs(10for99.99) offer savings for studios.
Substitutes: Thick bath towels or existing home blankets work well.
Yoga Mats
Budget mats from Amazon or other brands cost
$15–$30 and are grippy enough for home use.
For durability, consider mid-range options like Lululemon’s “The Mat” ($68), which lasts 2+ years.
Bolsters
DIY options: Roll up a yoga mat or stack folded blankets.
For purchased bolsters, rectangular foam or cotton bolsters start at
$35–$47.99. Look for sales on Sunshine Yoga or Mount Adams brands.
The price for bolster is a little higher than others, they cost almost the same as a pair of high waisted workout leggings with pockets
More about yoga leggings: Top Yoga Leggings with Pockets: Where Functionality Meets Fashion
Other Affordable Props
Sandbags: Make your own with rice and a towel (free) or buy pre-filled options for $10.99.
Massage balls: Use tennis balls or rubber toys from a dollar store.
Knee pads: Basic pairs cost $13.99 and protect joints during floor work.
Budget Tips:
Prioritize foam blocks, straps, and blankets first, as they offer the most versatility.
Check Sunshine Yoga or Amazon for bulk discounts or seasonal sales. Repurpose household items (towels, pillows, belts) to minimize costs.
Yoga props are valuable tools that can enhance your yoga practice by providing support, improving alignment, and increasing flexibility. Blocks, straps, bolsters, and blankets can be used in various ways to modify poses and make them more accessible, comfortable, and effective.