As a yoga practitioner, having the right yoga props can enhance your practice and help you get deeper into poses safely. One of the most common yoga props is a yoga block, usually made of foam or cork. But is just 1 yoga block enough for a fulfilling home yoga practice? Let’s dive into the details.
What is a Yoga Block Used For?
A yoga block is a sturdy prop that provides lift, support and stability in yoga poses. The main benefits of using a yoga block include:
- Helps improve alignment in poses
- Allows you to deepen stretches safely
- Supports proper form in balancing postures
- Assists with modifications if needed
Blocks can help beginners, those with limitations, and advanced practitioners alike. They are useful for a wide variety of poses to make them more comfortable. Most commonly, blocks are used to:
- Press hands or feet into in standing poses for stability
- Lift the hips higher in seated forward folds
- Support the sacrum (lower back) in back-bending poses
- Rest hands on top of for arm balances
- Elevate the body in lying poses
How Many Blocks Are Typically Used at a Time?
In most poses, yoga blocks are used one at a time. For example, placing one under your hand in Warrior I, or propping up your sacrum with one block in Bridge Pose. However, some postures call for using 2 blocks at the same time:
- Placing one under each hand or foot in standing poses
- Stacking 2 blocks to elevate hips higher in seated forward bends
- Using 2 to support arm balances like Side Plank
It’s rare for more than 2 blocks to be used simultaneously, even in restorative yoga when props heavily support the body. So in most cases, 1 or 2 blocks at a time is sufficient.
Consider Block Height
Standard yoga blocks come in a few height options, most commonly:
- 3 inches tall
- 4 inches tall
- 6 inches tall
The standard height is usually 4 inches. Shorter 3-inch blocks are more suitable for hand placement, while taller 6-inch blocks provide more lift for those needing elevated support. When determining how many blocks you need, consider if you want variety in height or are fine with just the standard size.
Account for Different Poses
Think about the different categories of poses you’ll be doing during your home practice:
- Standing poses: Blocks provide stability and alignment. Warrior and balancing poses require at least 1 block.
- Seated poses: Blocks support and increase depth of stretches. Forward folds and hip openers need at least 1 block.
- Arm supports: Blocks assist with lifting the body and takes pressure off wrists. Planks and side planks require 1-2 blocks.
- Backbends: Blocks under sacrum help deepen back arch safely. Bridge and wheel pose use 1 block.
- Restorative: Blocks provide complete support and relaxation. Multiple blocks recommended for comfort.
Ideally, you’ll want enough blocks on hand to facilitate your poses in each yoga category without having to move them around too much. 2 blocks allow more flexibility than just 1.
Factor in Yoga Style
Certain styles of yoga incorporate more props than others. For example:
- Hatha yoga: Often uses blocks for alignment and support in floor and seated poses. 2 blocks ideal.
- Iyengar yoga: Heavily props-focused, uses blocks in almost every pose. 3+ blocks recommended.
- Ashtanga yoga: Athletic style, minimally uses props. 1 block likely sufficient.
- Restorative yoga: Uses multiple props to fully support body. At least 3-4 blocks needed.
Think about your preferred yoga style and how props-reliant it is to determine adequate block quantity.
Consider Your Space
The size of your yoga space can dictate how many blocks are practical to have. Factors like:
- Shared space or dedicated yoga room
- Take class virtually or follow videos
- Have space to store multiple props
If space is limited, 1-2 blocks may be all that fits. Those with an ample dedicated yoga room can comfortably accommodate more props.
Evaluate Your Budget
Yoga blocks range in price from $5-$20 each depending on material (foam, cork, wood) and brand. Consider how much you want to spend when deciding on quantity:
| Number of Blocks | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 1 block | $5-$20 |
| 2 blocks | $10-$40 |
| 3 blocks | $15-$60 |
| 4+ blocks | $20-$80+ |
The more blocks you buy, the higher your total expense. Optimal quantity is 2 blocks for value and utility.
Consider Support and Skill Level
Those newer to yoga or with limited mobility may want more blocks on hand to facilitate getting into and holding poses comfortably. Examples include:
- Seniors needing more alignment support
- Beginners still building strength and stability
- Those managing injuries or conditions
- Anyone needing props for modifications
More advanced and flexible practitioners likely require fewer props, so 1 block could be sufficient.
Account for Frequency of Practice
How often you do yoga can influence the ideal block quantity. For instance:
- 1-2 times per week: 1 block likely enough for occasional use.
- 3-5 times per week: At least 2 blocks recommended for more frequent benefit.
- Daily practice: Investing in 3+ blocks makes sense for dedicated yogis.
Casual yogis may need only 1 block on hand, while multiple blocks better serve consistent practitioners. Purchase more if doing yoga daily.
Consider Combining with Other Props
Those building a more extensive yoga prop collection may not need as many blocks. Combining blocks with supports like:
- Yoga straps
- Yoga bolsters
- Sandbags or weights
- Wall rope systems
Can provide more pose options and allow you to use fewer blocks in a given practice. Investing in other props also impacts block quantity needs.
Start with 1-2 Blocks
Based on most yoga practitioners’ needs, 1-2 blocks is a good starting quantity for beginning a home practice. One block provides basic support and modifications. Two blocks allows more flexibility between poses.
Then, you can gauge if more blocks would serve your practice better once establishing a routine. Additional blocks can be purchased later as needed and budget allows.
Conclusion
While 1 block is certainly better than no blocks at all, investing in 2 standard size yoga blocks is ideal for most practitioners. This provides blocks for both sides of the body in mirrored poses, and greater ability to transition between postures.
Two blocks strike the right balance for budget, storage space, and utility across a range of pose types and yoga styles. Advanced students or very props-reliant styles may require more. But for the average yogi building a beginner home practice, starting with 2 versatile 4×6 inch foam or cork blocks is recommended.
Having a couple high-quality blocks on hand will enhance your home yoga sessions. And then expanding your collection further down the road is always an option once your practice develops.
