Before you begin doing yoga it’s a good idea to learn about yoga equipment. Yoga equipment can be as little as a comfy pair of pants and a shirt, and a non-slip surface, though for many of us, the addition of a few pieces of yoga equipment helps us get out bodies completely into position. If yoga equipment like a good mat for alleviating tender joints, or adding cushioning during strenuous types of yoga, helps you get more out of yoga, then it’s worth trying out some yoga equipment to see what helps you with any soreness or alignment help you may benefit from.

Basic Yoga Equipment

Basic yoga equipment starts with breathable, comfortable clothing that allows you to stretch and move freely. Tops that are somewhat form-fitting are best because many yoga poses position the head bent below the waist, or in such a way that the shirt may slip down. The ideal top is something that is soft and flexible, at the same time that it’s elastic and form-fitting.

Again, with leggings, you want something that is soft, yet grippy. For example, lycra tights are not good yoga equipment because they are too slippery and may cause you to slide across your yoga mat or the floor.

Yoga pants, or any soft, stretchy, and fibrous fabric will work for yoga pants. Shopping at a specialty yoga store is a great way to find yoga equipment, such as yoga clothing, in bulk (such as the yoga and pilates clothing from Gaiam).

Yoga Shoes

Yoga is usually done barefoot, which is nice for not adding to the yoga equipment that is to be carried to class on a regular basis. Usually, practitioners leave their street shoes near the outer door of the yoag studio.

Yoga Mats

Certainly yoga mats qualify as basic yoga equipment. Personally, I almost feel better without a mat, but then there are those few positions where the right yoga equipment makes it easier to get into position or keep knee bones from painfully rubbing into the floor.

I find that the best yoga equipment to have when it comes to a surface that is both cushioning and has good traction on both sides. Typically, yoga equipment, like much of yoga, is about a very less as more approach. If you do not need extra equipment to feel comfortable, then you just not feel pressured to buy yoga equipment you do not need. By the same token, if making you comfortable and attuned during yoga requires better yoga equipment, in the form of a softer mat for sore joints, so be it.

For most, the basic yoga mat and clothing will be all the yoga equipment that is required for practice. Yoga bricks are to help make your body more comfortable while also improving your alignment. Blocks tend to be excellent for standing positions where one’s hands cannot reach the floor.

Yoga straps are good for bound positions where the hands do not reach each other, or for poses where you need to hold onto your feet but cannot reach them.

Blankets are another type of yoga equipment that is often used at yoga class. These are often used folded up as props for leaning or sitting on

Usually these types of extra yoga equipment are provided at studio classes. If you will be practicing yoga at home you may wish to purchase some yoga equipment like blocks or straps to see if these help your yoga or are unnecessary yoga equipment for you. Personal experience is the best way to discover if additional yoga equipment is for you or not.