If your muscles are getting tight, your posture is taking a hit or the DOMS is getting too much (or all of that at once), it might be time to turn to yoga. However, if you've been putting in the miles without stretching, this ancient practice might not come all that naturally.
That's why yoga blocks are your best friend. They can help to modify or support yoga poses, decreasing how far your limbs have to travel at start of stretches and helping your body adjust to the movement.
The support provided can help to maintain proper alignments throughout the movements, allowing users to focus on form rather than struggling to make up distances.
Yoga blocks can also be used to make movements more challenging. Squeezing a block can help to to increase tension and maintain alignment, or introducing a block could add instability to make some poses more difficult.
What to consider when buying yoga blocks
Size and shape
Yoga blocks are typically shaped like bricks, with a traditional size of around 22.5cm x 11cm x 7.5cm (length x width x height, which is how the dimensions will be laid out below).
That traditional size is often considered the best for stability and is the block most commonly used by teachers. However, there are also longer, flatter blocks that offer a larger surface area to help support the knees, shoulders, upper back, or hips.
In addition to these traditional options, there are more unconventional yoga blocks available in various sizes and shapes, such as egg-shaped and semi-circular blocks. These unique options can provide a different experience and challenge for your yoga practice.
Materials and density
Wood
Wooden yoga blocks are often considered the most durable option, especially when made from harder woods, as they offer premium stability and longevity. Wooden blocks usually have an attractive appearance, with a range of finishes available.
However, one downside of wooden blocks is that they can become slippery with sweat, which may cause them to slide when placed on a hard floor or stacked on top of each other.
Cork
Cork is a softer material, making it a more comfortable option, especially for restorative yoga classes where you may need to rest your body weight on the block for an extended period.
Cork blocks also stack well and don't become slippery when wet, which is ideal for hot yoga or longer, more intense sessions.
However, cork blocks do have the tendency to absorb moisture, which can lead to a musty odour over time. Moisture can also cause blocks to crumble or become dented, making them less durable than some other options.
Foam
Foam yoga blocks are the most commonly used material. They're lightweight, easy to transport, and inexpensive, making them a popular choice. Foam blocks are available in a variety of shapes, sizes and colours to suit different yoga practices and personal preferences.
However, foam blocks do have some downsides. They can get dirty easily and may wear out quickly, particularly with frequent use. Foam blocks also may not be as eco-friendly as other materials, so it's good to check the description from the manufacturer.
Best yoga blocks
Adidas Eco Block
The Adidas Eco Block is constructed using recycled materials. The textured outer layer of the block is designed to enhance comfort and grip during your yoga practice, making it easier to hold positions and perform stretches.
With dimensions of 21cm x 13cm x 7cm, the block is similar in size to traditional yoga blocks. The soft shell of the block is also stated to provide moisture-proofing for hygiene. This is an important feature for those who want to maintain a clean and healthy yoga practice, as it is claimed to help prevent the build-up of bacteria.
Adidas says the block's soft shell is designed to help the block maintain its structure and provide extra firmness and support.
Manduka Unblock Recycled Foam Yoga Block
Manduka says its purpose is to create responsibly sourced products that minimise environmental waste. In line with this ethos, this block is built from 50% recycled EVA foam.
It features a semi-circular design, with the dimensions 23cm x 15cm x 10cm, designed to provide ergonomic support that is gentler on the body. The curved side can be used to stretch over, adjust angles of stretches or take pressure off the user’s wrists.
However, it could also be placed face down to work on stability and balance, changing the block from a supportive device to a tool that can make your practice more challenging.
Autumndeer Bamboo Yoga Block
Autumndeer's wooden block is crafted from bamboo, which the brand claims is eco-friendly. They state that bamboo's high-density and rigidity makes it a stable and durable option.
The block is coated with a thin layer of protective lacquer, which gives it a sheen finish and makes it more resistant to corrosion.
The block is designed with rounded edges, which is designed to enhance comfort during supported and restorative poses. The block's dimensions are a traditional 23cm x 15cm x 7.5cm.
Its surface is stated to be easy to clean and resistant to sweat or moisture, which may be helpful in ensuring hygiene during your yoga practice.
Kurma Cork Oval Egg Yoga Block
Kurma claims that its egg-shaped block provides ergonomic support for a range of yoga poses, including reclining postures and supported backbends.
The block is made from fine-grain cork, which is designed to be both sustainable and non-slip, ensuring stability during your sessions.
The dimensions of the block are 31cm x 12cm x 7.5cm. Its unique shape is said to mimic the contours of the body, allowing for greater comfort and support during various poses.
Core Balance Cork Yoga Block
- Buy now from Core Balance (£17.99)
The Core Balance yoga block is made from cork, which is said to provide increased grip and comfort. According to the manufacturer, the cork material is also anti-microbial, promoting hygiene and cleanliness.
The block is designed to provide a firm feel for stability, measuring a traditional 22.7cm x 15cm x 7.7cm for support and balance. A cotton yoga strap is included with the block, which can assist users in achieving proper alignment and depth.
Yoga Studio Recycled Chip Foam Block
Yoga Studio's chip foam block is designed to enhance your yoga practice by providing greater support and stability for your body. Unlike traditional blocks, this block features a larger surface area that can raise your spine and help to align your body during exercises and restorative work.
The block is made from compressed chipped foam, giving it a unique mottled multicolour appearance. According to the manufacturer, this foam has a softer feel with more give than traditional EVA foam blocks.
This may provide greater comfort and flexibility during practice, while still offering the necessary support for challenging poses.
Lululemon Yoga Block
- Buy now from Lululemon (£18.00)
Lululemon, a popular provider of yoga accessories, offers a block designed to provide a dense foam feel for greater support and stability. The block has a traditional shape, measuring 25cm x 15cm x 7.5cm, which may make it a versatile size for various yoga poses.
In addition to its practical features, the Lululemon yoga block also includes a motivational quote to give users a little extra boost of motivation throughout their practice.