If you're in search of the best yoga blocks of 2023 to take your practice further, we're here to help. A yoga block is a simple but effective tool that you can use in a number of ways to take your practice to another level; it can be your best yoga buddy when you're having trouble nailing a pose, trying to push your stretches a little deeper, or when you just need a bit of support while you get into position.
Admittedly, the only thing you absolutely need to get started with yoga is one of the best yoga mats, although you'll find that a pair of the best yoga pants can help with those difficult stretches. But investing in a yoga block or strap is a good way to progress faster, and it needn't cost you very much.
We can't claim that a yoga block or brick has any special qualities; it's essentially a lightweight cuboid that you can use for a bit of balance, or as a guide when you're trying to align your body properly, or to help you deepen a stretch. So for example, when you're in a balance pose where your hands should be on the floor, but you find you can't quite reach, you can rest your hands on your yoga block instead (and rotate it to get the the surface height you need). That way you're focused on your posture rather than on not falling over.
You could also prop one foot on a yoga block to deepen a split, or place one beneath your sit bones to elevate yourself in a seated position, and if you're trying to improve your flexibility you can put a yoga bock flat against your feet for further reach in a seated forward bend.
Read on to learn more about yoga blocks and to find the best yoga blocks available now. Your yoga teacher can also advise you on when and how to use them as part of your practice; they may look a bit basic, but they're much more useful than you might think.
What is the difference between a yoga block and a yoga brick?
A yoga brick is shaped roughly like a house brick, while a yoga block is wider and flatter. However, you'll often find the term 'yoga block' as an umbrella term, referring to any support of this kind. Flatter blocks are typically used to sit on, for extra height or to provide stability in seated poses, while deeper bricks have a wider variety of uses. All yoga bricks are roughly the same size – the rectangular cuboid shape means you can flip your block onto different sides for different heights of support.
What type of yoga block is best?
Yoga blocks come in a range of different colours and materials. Cork yoga blocks are usually the most expensive, and offer durability, stability, and a high level of traction. EVA foam is very lightweight and usually cheaper than cork. It's easier to tote to and from your yoga class but it's not as durable or stable. It's also handy to know that both EVA foam and cork are environmentally friendly, so you can practice guilt-free.
Best yoga block ranking 2023
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Our top pick for best yoga block now is the Uplifting block from Alo, made with 100% EVA, with bevelled edges. They're sturdy, lightweight and durable. The surface is nice to touch and grippy. It's not the most important thing, but the design is also pretty cool, and they come in a wide range of colours, so you can match them to the rest of your yoga gear.
With their smooth, non slip surface, these yoga blocks are suitable for a wide range of floors; whether that’s the lino of the local gym or your lounge carpet. They’re lightweight, so taking them to class shouldn’t be a problem, and they’re made from 100% natural cork wood, so they’re environmentally friendly, too.
These blocks are cheap and still eco-friendly, solid and versatile to use. They’re made from EVA foam rather than cork, so they won't deliver on the traction, but the soft surface is comfortable enough to rest hands, feet and even your forehead. There are two bright, bold colours to choose from.
Most yoga bricks are much of a muchness, but Lululemon has gone out on a limb and opted for a completely different shape with its Flow block. A completely horizontal surface can be taxing on your wrists in some poses – this block features curved sides that are designed to counter that. The unusual shape limits the versatility of this block very slightly (if you want a flat surface , you'll only be able to use the brick on its lowest height, for example), but it's an interesting innovation that could be exactly what some yogis have been looking for. It's made from dense foam in a snazzy marbled pattern, and can be wiped down to clean.
With an Easy-go-grip surface and contoured edges, this yoga block has been designed to help yogis improve their strength and balance. Thanks to its cork construction, it’s suitable to use on a range of floor types, while offering users firmer feel than foam blocks. If you’re looking for a block with more weight, this one is just the ticket, but avoid if you’re looking for a lightweight one to take to class.
If you’re just starting out, you may not want to spend too much on a yoga block. To help you advance through the poses, this block from Yogibare will ensure your body gradually stretches into the moves to avoid any damage. The brand say the blocks are sturdy enough to hold your body weight and help you to align yourself so you’re doing the poses correctly from the offset.
If you’re looking for a quality mid-range cork yoga block, this one from Lotuscrafts is just the ticket. Customers say is doesn’t give like foam blocks, so it should provide plenty of support as you master the moves. The surface is soft to the touch but it offers plenty of traction so you’re not in any danger of it slipping while in use.
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