While some forms of Yoga equipment are more popular than others, all of them add to your workout and will enhance your performance, flexibility and strength.
Mat: A usually required piece of Yoga equipment. The mat serves two purposes. First, it cushions the ground a little bit while you are on the floor and keeps you from coming in contact with a dirty surface. However, comfort is not its main function. The mat serves mostly as a balancing tool. Sometimes referred to as a ‘sticky mat,’ your bare feet are less likely to slip or slide around while you are in the various positions. There are many different types of mats. Some are lightweight; others are designed for travel. You can also find mat bags or mats with straps for convenient carrying.
Meditation Pillow: Depending on the type of Yoga class you are in, you might have time for quiet reflection and meditation. In those times, many people find that sitting on a meditation pillow, referred to as a zafu in Buddhist meditation (zazen), helps you remain comfortable and relaxed as you meditate. The pillow can also be used as a headrest while you are in positions that require you to lie on your back. Many people find that a small pillow nearby during Yoga comes in very handy; not only for their neck, but occasionally used while they are lying on their side or to prop up their legs.
Foam Block: Some Yoga teachers will use a block in some poses. While it is usually not required to achieve the correct positioning, it can give you more stretch in the pose, helping you to become more flexible. If you are in an advanced Yoga class, or are very limber, you should consider using a block to get even more of a workout.
Strap: This is used primarily while stretching your legs while you lie on the floor. If you are not very flexible, the straps act as extensions of your arms, so you can reach your ankle and pull your leg up towards you. These straps usually do not stretch and allow you to control the way your leg moves while it is in the air. Other Yoga straps are elastic and can be used in a number of different ways to stretch your legs, arms and back.
Yoga Ball: This type of Yoga equipment is not commonly used, especially in a beginning class. They come in a variety of sizes and weights and are primarily used as objects that add resistance. Placing the ball in your open palm, you can move your arms around, using agility, reflexes, strength and balance to keep the balls from falling.
Sandbag: These are sometimes used the way that a meditation pillow would be used to create a prop or support for your body if a pose is difficult. While they are not as comfortable as a down-filled pillow, they serve a double purpose. A sandbag can also be draped over an arm or a leg to add resistance while you slowly raise and lower them.
Video: This is an increasingly popular form of Yoga equipment. Many people find that using an instructional video or DVD is a convenient and easy way to practice Yoga in the privacy of their own home. Videos are available in all levels of skill and are valued for their ability to be paused, fast-forwarded or rewound, which is something that you cannot do in a traditional class.
By Stacy Hinojosa