If you’re new to yoga and need some support in those trickier poses, don’t worry. Struggling with poses and stretches is completely normal. After all, you’re not expected to get everything all at once. If your body tells you to stop, it’s best to listen. That doesn’t mean you should give up. Practice makes perfect – and there is no shame in getting a little support – for example, with a yoga block. We’ve rounded up the best yoga blocks to help you along the way.
Yoga blocks are props, or tools, used to help yoga practitioners in three ways: to make yoga poses more accessible, to act as support, and to add a challenge to develop strength.
Don’t feel like using a block is cheating. Or, worse, that you don’t feel like a real yogi for using one.
Yoga blocks help you practice yoga poses in a safer, more beneficial way. Sometimes, they can be essential to doing these poses skilfully. Not only can you prevent injury by incorporating a yoga block, but they teach you to engage and provide stability.
What do I need to look for in a yoga block?
If you want a yoga block that is of good quality, it’s best to find a premium yoga block that is made from tough foam. You don’t want to spend your money on a cheap, squishy block because it will not add any support and can cause injury.
You need accessibility, support and strength.
Cork is another good material for a yoga block, but it’s more suited to experienced yogis who want to add more of a challenge to their practice. We recommend getting a set of two – or buying two of the same – so you can support each side of your body.
Generally, it’s best to choose foam bricks when doing seated asanas and heart openers. Cork and wooden bricks are good for standing poses where you need balance and safety.
The best yoga blocks
www.decathlon.co.uk
Perfect for eco-friendly yogis, this eco-designed cork yoga brick, a natural material from Portugal, has a density of 300 kg/m³ for good balance. It's smooth, warm and ideal to stay grounded with nature during poses. This cork brick weighs 570g, and its dimensions are 22 x 12 x 7cm. Plus, the round edges provide comfort during your practice.
www.decathlon.co.uk
Lightweight - this foam yoga block is easy to transport to and from your lessons and yoga retreats. It helps with flexibility problems during yoga poses. This block is 22.5cm long, 13.5cm wide, and 7.5cm tall - plus, it weighs 90g. Coming in various colours: this popular foam brick has a density of 35kg/m³ (plus or minus 10 per cent) which provides great support during your practice.
www.asos.com
We love the FitHut collection on ASOS. They have some lovely yoga mats, as well as plenty of props for yoga - and pilates. This yoga block is no different, getting great reviews from yogis. Ideal for elongating poses and stretches with rounded edges for comfort and grip, this prop is the perfect support to flex your way through your flows. We've got some dimensions for you: 22.5 x 15 x 7.5 cm. Plus, the weight is 235g - which is sturdy.
This is a great set for two foam yoga blocks (9" x 6" x 3"), complete with a strap (8ft) and an e-guide on how to use them. The high-density foam blocks and strap boost your experience in yoga by increasing your flexibility. These blocks offer a solid structure and withstand heavy weights with a non-slip surface. This little set is perfect for a home kit - or to accompany you to class.
www.etsy.com
If you're looking for something made from wood, we've got some great blocks made from pine. Coming in at 14 x 9 x 5 cm, these blocks have a rubber underbelly to prevent sliding. Plus, these wooden blocks are rounded and shaped to fit into your hand comfortably with flat tops and bottoms to allow them to be stacked easily. Spirit & Destiny love these blocks because they're perfect for improving technique and building strength.
www.etsy.com
Elevate your practice with the use of these unique reclaimed bamboo yoga blocks, with carved Surya Suns and Chandra Moons. Aren't they beautiful? Use these blocks to enhance your form, keeping you stable and supported. You can also sit on top of one or two blocks to enable a straighter spine and open hips. They are lightweight and easy to transport. The dimensions are 3 x 6 x 9cm. We love how unique these blocks are.