Practice
What Is a Yoga Block For?
A yoga block is a firm foam or cork brick that 'brings the floor closer to you'. It supports your hand, foot, hip or head in poses where you cannot yet reach co
A yoga block is a firm foam or cork brick that 'brings the floor closer to you'. It supports your hand, foot, hip or head in poses where you cannot yet reach comfortably, so you keep good alignment without straining. Blocks make standing, seated and restorative poses more accessible for beginners and stiffer bodies.
In a pose like Triangle, if your hand cannot reach the floor without rounding, a block under the hand lets you keep length and alignment. Under the hips in seated poses, it tilts the pelvis so the back stays tall.
Blocks are one of the most useful props precisely because they remove strain — they let you practise a pose correctly at your current range, rather than forcing or compromising the shape. Cork is firmer and heavier; foam is lighter and softer.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need one or two yoga blocks?
- Two is ideal, since many poses use one under each hand, but you can start with one.
- Are cork or foam blocks better?
- Cork is firm and stable for weight-bearing; foam is lighter, softer and cheaper. Beginners are fine with either.
Related reading
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