No matter if you are a beginner to yoga or a seasoned instructor, using a yoga block is a helpful way to add support to your practice. Yoga teachers, including myself, regularly recommend using yoga blocks [1] to stabilise the body during class so you're not wobbling all over your mat. They also serve as support for standing and seated yoga poses.
How to Use Yoga Blocks
For standing poses, like Triangle, where you have two feet on the ground in a wide stance, you can place a block or two under your bottom hand to help you keep your balance while your torso is tilted on an angle. Putting blocks underneath your hands is also helpful for when you find yourself balancing on one foot, like in Warrior Three [2].
You can use yoga blocks on other body parts, not just your hands. Stand on a pair of blocks in Forward Fold to elevate the hips and increase the fold at the hip creases. Place a block between your thighs in a Chair [4] pose to engage your inner thighs. And, take a seat on a block for your mediation [5].
While most people think of a yoga block as a rectangular piece of foam, they actually come in a range of shapes, sizes, and materials — each serving a unique purpose. Keep scrolling for a diverse list of the best yoga blocks — including a mini block, wedge block, and cork yoga block — and learn about how each one can support your yoga practice.
Dense Foam Yoga Block: Manduka Recycled Foam Yoga Block
Manduka's Recycled Foam Yoga Block [6] ($18) maintains its grip through a sweaty hot yoga class. This dense, not stiff, foam yoga block offers support that doesn't collapse under pressure.
Cushioned Yoga Block: POPSUGAR Yoga Block - Pink Moon Phases
POPSUGAR's Yoga Block - Pink Moon Phases [7] ($13) offers soft yet durable support under your hands that won't strain your joints in any pose.
Curved Yoga Block: Lululemon Inner Flow Yoga Block
The unique curves on Lululemon's Inner Flow Yoga Block [8] ($28) provide support from all angles. Comfortably hold the shorter curved side of this block in standing postures like Triangle pose. And, use the longer curved side for postures that are closer to the ground, like Low Lunge.
Tip: Grab two blocks, then, put the long inner flat sides of the blocks together to create a comfortable seat for your meditation. The curved sides won't dig into your thighs like regular blocks do.
Wedge Yoga Block: Gaiam Yoga Block Wedge
Gaiam's one-piece Yoga Block Wedge [9] ($15) is a great way to support your body in many postures, including Down Dog [10]. Sliding this block under your palms (with the tallest side facing you) in this pose, takes some of the pressure off the wrists.
Wooden Yoga Block: Hugger Mugger Bamboo Yoga Block
Hugger Mugger's Bamboo Yoga Block [11] ($30) is the most firm block on this list. Wooden blocks like these provide a sturdy setup in restorative yoga postures.
Portable Yoga Block: Manduka Recycled Foam Yoga Mini Block
The Recycled Foam Yoga Mini Block [12] ($15) from Manduka is a great option if you want to have a supportive block that doesn't take up a lot of space. The longest side of the block is six inches whereas a full-size block is nine inches, making it easier to tuck away.
Supportive Yoga Block Kit: Harderwill 5 in 1 Yoga Set
If your joints wince at the thought of trying a yoga class, then this is your kit. Harderwill's 5 in 1 Yoga Set [13] ($20, originally $30) comes with two wedge yoga blocks, two knee pads, and a yoga strap.
Cork Yoga Block: Byoga The Cork Block 4
If you are not a fan of foamy materials, try using a cork yoga block. The Cork Block 4 [14] ($22) by Byoga is porous and stable — a great option for people with sweaty palms, too.