Best Yoga Blocks for Flexibility and Support

What Are Yoga Blocks?

Yoga blocks are rectangular props — usually made of foam, cork, or bamboo — that bring the floor closer to you. They support your hands, feet, or hips in poses where your flexibility doesn’t quite reach. Place one under your hand in triangle pose, sit on one in pigeon pose, or squeeze one between your thighs in bridge pose. They make challenging poses accessible and comfortable poses deeper.

Far from being a sign of weakness, blocks are used by yoga teachers and experienced practitioners every day. They’re a tool for smarter practice, not a crutch.

Who Needs Them?

Honestly, almost everyone. If you can’t comfortably touch the floor in a forward fold, you need blocks. If your hips are tight (desk workers, runners, lifters — that’s most of us), blocks make hip-opening poses achievable. Beginners benefit the most, but experienced yogis use them to deepen stretches and hold poses longer.

Buy two blocks. Many poses benefit from having a block under each hand, and they’re cheap enough that buying a pair makes sense.

What to Look For

Material is the main decision. Foam blocks are the lightest and cheapest — soft on the hands and fine for most uses, but they compress under body weight and wear out faster. Cork blocks are heavier, firmer, and more durable. They provide a more stable surface and last for years. Bamboo blocks are the hardest and most durable but uncomfortable without a towel.

Size is fairly standard: 23cm x 15cm x 10cm. This gives you three height options depending on which way you orient the block. Some brands offer larger or smaller sizes — larger blocks provide more support for people with bigger frames.

Density matters for support. A block that squishes too much under your weight isn’t providing the stability you need. Cork and high-density foam hold their shape best.

Edges should be bevelled (rounded). Sharp corners dig into your palms and are uncomfortable to grip. Most quality blocks have softened edges.

Top Picks

Manduka Cork Block — Dense, heavy, and beautifully made. The contoured edges are comfortable and the cork provides natural grip. Will last a decade of regular use.

Yogamatters Recycled Foam Block — A great eco-friendly foam option. Firm enough for support, light enough to carry, and made from recycled materials. Excellent value.

Lotuscrafts Cork Block — Solid cork quality at a competitive price. Sustainably sourced cork with good density and rounded edges. A popular choice in the UK.

Decathlon Foam Block — Cheap and cheerful. If you’re just starting out and want to try blocks without committing, these are under a fiver each.

Where to Buy

• Manduka Cork Block
• Yogamatters Blocks
• Lotuscrafts Cork Block
• Decathlon Foam Block

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