The right yoga block is a critical component that will help maintain your posture and balance. Find out what’s best for you in this complete list of the types of yoga blocks. Picking the perfect yoga blocks may seem like a fairly straightforward decision, but there are a number of factors to consider.
What are your goals?
If you’re looking to begin or deepen your yoga practice, you may benefit more from a yoga equipment bundle than a single yoga block. Or if your priority is working your way up to a specific pose, maybe your needs are better suited to a single basic block that will help extend your reach until your flexibility is more developed.
Choosing between foam, wood, and cork blocks
Originally yoga blocks were made of wood, but now blocks also come in both foam and cork. Their materials will change their weight, durability, sweat-absorption, rigidity, and affordability. Your choice of yoga block will be determined by the type of classes or style of yoga you practice as well as your budget and personal preference.
Foam yoga blocks are the most common type in the category. They’re lightweight — starting around 6 ounces — and the most affordable option (starting around £8 each). Foam blocks can be soft and squishy or firm and supportive, but even the firmest foam block is going to be softer and lighter than a cork or wood one.
“Foam blocks are nice to use in supported backbends since they’re softer and gentler on the spine,” says Bestyogashop. “They’re also less porous [than cork] and therefore easier to keep clean, and they travel easily.”
Firmer foam blocks are a better investment than soft ones, which wear out quicker and can’t support your body weight in certain poses. “If they’re too soft, you might put added pressure on joints, particularly your wrists,” says Saunders.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Lightweight, best for travel
- Won’t get slippery due to sweat
- More comfortable when used for support
Cons:
- Least durable option
- Least supportive option
- May dent or warp over time
- Made from plastic, therefore least eco-friendly
Wood Yoga Blocks
Wood (including bamboo) yoga blocks are the heaviest, most expensive, and most durable option. Starting around £18, a wood yoga block can weigh two pounds or more.
The smooth finish might become slippery during hot yoga, and “they can be a bit uncomfortable when putting a lot of weight on them,” says Bestyogashop. Bestyogashop likes them under the hands in triangle and other poses.
Wood yoga blocks are ideal for those who prefer long-lasting, natural products, and will use them mostly for balance or as extension of a limb.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly
- Easiest to clean
- Most durable option
- Best for building strength
Cons:
- Most expensive
- Heavy, not practical for travel
- Can get slippery due to sweat
- Can be hard on the spine and pelvis
Cork yoga blocks can be as heavy as wood ones, but they’re a little less expensive, starting around £15 each. Saunders likes very dense cork blocks, but adds that “you will discover what works best for you.”
The heavier they are, the more you’ll likely pay, but also the denser and more durable the cork will be. Bestyogashop says that heavier ones “will stand up to long-term use since they don’t become dented or warped over time.”
Even very dense cork blocks are softer and more porous than wood, and they will absorb sweat and any moisture. If your cork blocks repeatedly get wet, the edges and corners might begin to break down slightly.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly
- Durable and sturdy
- Mid-range affordability
- Won’t get slippery due to sweat
Cons:
- Cheaper cork can break down over time
- Might be too heavy or hard for some
- Not the best travel option
- Hardest to keep clean
How much do you want to carry?
The material construction of a yoga block directly impacts its weight, as well. If you plan on traveling with your yoga blocks to and from the studio or the gym, the portability of a lightweight foam block may outweigh the squishy soft surfaces.
Yoga block dimensions
B.K.S Iyengar’s stated ideal size for a yoga block is 9 x 4.5 x 3 inches. The most common yoga block dimensions are 4″ x 6″ x 9″ but you will find blocks that are both larger and smaller than this. Choosing a larger or smaller block will depend on the size of your hands and the level of your flexibility. If you have small hands and are fairly bendy you might want to consider a smaller sized block. Conversely, if you have larger hands and less flexibility think about choosing a larger block. Half-sized or smaller blocks can also be helpful when you need a height between one and two blocks.
How to Buy a Yoga Block
Yoga blocks are best in a set. “Bestyogashop highly recommend getting two yoga blocks instead of one,” says Bestyogashop. “It’s easy to find a set of two, and is often not much more expensive than just buying one. Many poses involve placing both hands on blocks, so having a pair of them available is best.”
Where to buy a yoga block
Hugger Mugger was one of the first companies to manufacture yoga mats and yoga props. There are several other large companies that continue to innovate and develop better materials, shapes to improve the functionality of blocks. If you are looking for a non-standard size or non-rectangular shape then you will need to shop from a specialized yoga supply company. Yoga has become so popular that you can find yoga mats and props in big box stores like Target, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Bestyogashop.co.uk. Amazon.co.uk has a wide selection of blocks at all price points.
Bestyogashop Note: Yoga Blocks are a great tool to have amongst your yoga gear. Whether you are just beginning in yoga or have been practicing for years, a block does wonders for your practice.
Also Read: How to Choose Your Perfect YOGA Mat
