What do I need for gear to start yoga? This is a loaded question. While you do not need to purchase ANY props, they can make your practice feel better, provide better alignment, reduce injury, support healing, growth of practice, and make the experience more joyful.

I LOVE PROPS!

You can probably buy one "set" of props and never need to buy them again. Sure you can spend money on them, but you don't need to at all. Second hand props are great. If you think about it, every prop you have ever used at a studio is technically second hand. So if money is tight, Goodwill, yard sales, facebook marketplace free pages are all valid places to pick up what you need.

I have a free video tutorial in the library available in the membership and under the single classes.

Blocks:

First, DO NOT buy 3 inch blocks. They aren't stable. I care too much about you. I have a set. They hold up the dogs water dish. The most common options are 9x6x4 Blocks in either foam or cork. Now, I love my cork blocks. You want a set, go for it. BUT, my recommendation is the foam blocks. Here is a link a recommendation (with a strap) . This set of 2 blocks and a strap is about $18 at the publishing of the blog post. If you only want blocks (buy a set of two - I use two blocks in a lot of classes. Remember, these are your tools. Try this set for about $10. Don't get sucked into the blocks with the hands carved into them. Rearranging the block to match your hand is a pain. It is a complete gimmick.

Strap:

You can buy the strap included in the package above. There is a difference between a yoga strap and a fitness strap that has a lot of loops. Both can be used but there are things you can't do without the metal rings on the end to secure a loop. A single strap is about $8. This is a brand I have purchased. If you already have blocks, here is a link to a strap. Straps are easy to pack but a belt, a lanyard from your conference, or the bathrobe belt work just fine as a substitute.

Bolsters:

This is where it can start to get pricey. The Manduka bolsters are huge and more than $50 each. If you love them, great. Personally, I recommend the Toyota version of bolster. Yes4All has a great one. It is sturdy. The covers remove for washing. Rain proof bag to carry it. They have stood up in my Yin Classes I teach in person. Here is the Amazon link. Plan to spend about $40-45. I have ordered a two pack that was about $25. They are garbage.

Mats:

This starts to get personal. Everyone has a different idea of what they love for a mat. The mat you see me on most of the time is my Lifeforme. They are expensive at about $200. You don't need one. Honestly, I didn't have an expensive mat until I went through my first training. I had a Danskin mat I got at TJ Maxx forever.

I do have a mat I am recommending as a beginner mat. This is a mat I bought to use as a test for a resort I teach at and is the most grabbed option in the studio until I brought it home. It is a Gruper mat and $26. Unless you need an extra long mat. Buy this one!

A comment on the super thick mats. I don't care what they say on them. They aren't yoga mats. Only if you have had a recent knee replacement. Use a blanket for extra cushion. You are not stable standing on a cushion. This is what I am saying NOT to buy.

But don't I need an expensive mat?

NO!! Again - you can buy a mat for about $10 at TJ Maxx. This is a very personal choice. Some people love and swear by Manduka mats. I don't like them at all. My first expensive mat is an ALO. It was over $100 and in the end, I don't love it. It holds the stink from a sweaty heated class and it is TOO sticky. I transitioned to my Lifeforme that is a perfect balance, doesn't stink, and has taken a beating. However, you don't need an expensive mat.

Travel Mat:

I don't go anywhere overnight without a mat. You can take your Compass Rose Yoga Membership with you. Why not your mat? I have a Jade Travel mat. It is what I bring with me. Even to retreats where they are providing them. Honestly, you build a relationship with your mat. My jade is my travel selection. It fits in my carry on. Even the roller bag under the seat with a weekend of clothes. Here is the link to what I have. It is currently $80.

Lifeforme also has travel mats. I have not used one to compare. Here is a link to their site. They start at $130.

Optionally, you can also use a yoga towel instead of a mat when you travel. Consistency is key and can really help you manage business travel stress, kinks from travel, gut issues from flying and more.

Blankets:

Yes, they are a prop. Use any throw blanket. No need to go buy one. Seriously. If you use one at home, on the road, use a bath towel as an option.

You can easily equip yourself out with a full yoga kit for:

• $18 - 2 blocks and a strap

• $26 - beginner mat from Gruper

• $35 Compass Rose Virtual Voyage Monthly Membership

• $40 - Yes4All Bolster (optional)

Great options beyond the internet to find all of these are Walmart, TJ MAXX or Marshalls, Goodwill, or any sporting goods store. You may find either jade or liforme mats at a local studio for purchase and demo.

BTW - none of these are affiliate links. I don't get a kick back on any of the products beyond my own memberships

What is your favorite prop?