Choosing the Right Yoga Block

Yoga blocks are great accessories whether you are at a beginner or advanced level - they are the perfect prop for providing additional body support and balance.

These blocks - sometimes referred to as bricks -  can be used for any type of yoga and at any level or experience. They are especially beneficial for beginners who haven’t yet gained the flexibility that frequent stretching can develop.

The yoga block has been used in the practice of yoga for thousands of years and is used in many classes at health clubs and gyms as an important prop for students.

They are made from various materials including high density EVA foam, marbled or recycled non-toxic foam, bamboo and cork - they can even be made from wood. 

The density and weight of a block is a key consideration when you set out to buy one - the higher the density, the better a block will be for someone who is just starting out at yoga.

A foam block or brick will normally weight between 3 to 12 ounces and a cork block will be heavier at around one to two pounds. They are often made from closed-cell material so they won't absorb moisture.

A dense block is important for anyone practising a type of yoga which requires more difficult positioning for beginners, such as hatha, which usually involves greater pressure on the hands. A dense and heavier block will stay in place, and help you to avoid any accidental slipping.

If you are at an advanced stage in yoga, you will probably be learning and practicing poses that require a block to be used as an integral part of the pose - these poses need additional support in order to be carried out correctly and safely.

In the case of a yoga expert, a block can give you the confidence to take on more advanced poses that seem to challenge our conception of gravity, strength, and what our bodies can do.

Some styles of yoga, such as Iyengar yoga and restorative yoga, rely heavily on the use of blocks - but even in the less prop-heavy classes, you will almost certainly have occasion to use one.

A block provides the support needed in your poses

If you are a beginner, you can use a block to add support while your muscles are developing. Yoga requires an immense amount of strength and stamina from most muscle groups in your body. 

A yoga block can really help a yoga newbie by giving a bit of extra support while you are waiting for your muscles to become accustomed to the poses. It will also help you keep your balance, another aspect that will improve as your muscles gain more strength.

If you are a beginner who unable to touch the ground when bending over, a block can be placed between your hands and the floor to provide support until you become more flexible.

One decision you’ll need to make is what material you want the block to be made of. The majority are made from various types of soft, smooth, spongy foam material that has bit of give in it, but still offers plenty of support for body weight being placed on it.

There are also many styles of cork blocks and bricks available to buy and other made from various eco-friendly materials, but these are more common online. 

It's important to choose a yoga block from a reputable brand name, which manufactures products that are renowned for being durable and safe. It's worth checking out a few reviews in fitness and health magazines, or customer reviews on Amazon and other sites.

Depending on the size of your hands, the size of the yoga block you buy may or may not be a priority. Popular sizes include 23 x 15 x 7.6cm, 30.5cm x 20.5cm, 5cm, 23 x 14 x 9 cm. 

When choosing a block you should ensure your palm will easily rest over the side of it, with your fingers still able to touch the floor. The block should lend you added support, and help you gain the right posture without hurting yourself. A good quality block will be very stable when you curl your finders around it and bend down into a forward-facing dog position

Popular choices of colour for these blocks include black, white, yellow, beige, pink, red, purple, green, blue and grey. A small, cheap and basic block will cost around £7.50 to £10 and a deluxe quality large block will cost £20 or more.

Once you've chosen a block that fits the bill for your needs, you'll be well-equipped to take your yoga to new heights.

Check out our range of YOGA BLOCKS FOR SALE in our site store.