Yoga is the 2nd most popular form of exercise in the world behind strength training. It went from a niche hobby to a popular way to unwind while improving the body and mind.
Local studios may offer everything from online instruction to hot yoga classes, but not everyone feels the need to go out to enjoy them. 67% of practitioners do it at home. It can cost you over $62,640 during your lifetime on classes, workshops, and yoga supplies.
Read on to learn the 3 most essential tools to get for your at-home studio.
Table of Contents
1. Yoga Mat
A mat is one of the most important parts of your home yoga setup. They provide a cushion between you and the ground to protect your knees and bones.
Know what you want from your mat before you buy it. Decide how firm it should be whether you want one to travel with, how absorbant it should be, and what material you need. Look for reviews and recommendations.
Test it out in your local yoga supply shop to see how it feels. The Downward Dog pose can help you check its grip, and the Low Lunge helps you see its cushioning and joint support.
2. Yoga Blocks
Blocks help you practice yoga poses such as the one-legged pigeon or chaturanga that are more advanced. They’ll improve your alignment and balance and prevent injury.
Foam blocks are light and portable. Wooden ones are heavier, but most yoga teachers recommend them. They’re firm with no give but are heavy and not portable. Cork blocks are in the middle as far as weight and give.
You’ll also have to consider the height of your block. The standard is 4 inches, but they range from 3-5.
3. Yoga Bands, Straps, and Swings
Yoga supplies such as bands, straps, and swings provide resistance that works against your body when you complete a pose. They help you:
- Improve flexibility and alignment
- Provide stability during balance and inversions
- Develop strength
Make sure that you choose the right length for your straps and bands. They can be 6-8 feet long and should be long enough to hold comfortably.
Bands and straps have several types of closure. Plastic quick-release buckles are quieter, but metal D-rings are easier to adjust. Loops aren’t adjustable but let you move more smoothly between poses.
Cotton bands and straps are durable and easy to clean. They’re a great beginner option, but there are other materials to choose from if you find it too rough such as nylon.
A yoga swing hangs on the wall but works in the same way. It can even relieve back pain through inversion therapy.
More Tips for Buying Yoga Supplies
Yoga is one of the most popular exercises in the world. Creating an at-home studio is an investment but worth it if you know what equipment to get.
A mat is one of the most important home yoga supplies because it provides a cushion between your body and the floor. You can also buy blocks to help you improve poses and bands, straps, or swings to create resistance.
Read the rest of our content for more yoga guides.
