For my entire practice so far, I’ve been using the first $5 thrift store blocks I found before my first class. They’ve been… fine? I’ve never really thought about it but now that I’ve managed to lose one somewhere (pretty sure I left it in Starbucks) I’m looking at upgrading my blocks and might as well get some straps too.
But I’m a little confused.
Some brands charging like $30 for what looks like a fancy brick! Meanwhile, I can find similar looking ones for under $10 online. Does a more expensive block make a difference or am I just paying for a logo? I don’t mind getting something good if it actually helps my practice.
What has your experience been with cheaper vs more expensive props?
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The fanciest you ever need to go with your blocks (in my experience) is a good set of cork ones and even the Gaim brand will be an extra $5 over your local thrift store. Go with these and don’t look back:
The only exception is maybe if you want some different look or design but cork gives you comfort, grip, durability and it’s more eco-friendly than plastic. Still cheaper than some of the branded ones.
I think maybe just getting whatever works with your budget might be the way to go?
From what I understand, the type of block probably isn’t super critical when you’re just getting into things. I mean, if you find yourself really connecting with your practice and feel like cork blocks would enhance your flow, you could always invest in them down the road, right? I’ve heard lots of people in class mention they use the regular foam ones and basic straps and seem totally happy with them!
Hope this helps a little bit!
Last month I accidentally left my blocks at the park after an outdoor practice and had to improvise with my water bottles for triangle pose the next day, which actually made me realize how much the width and edges of blocks matter for different hand positions, so when I replaced them I watched this video about block dimensions and grip styles that showed me why some blocks feel so much better for certain poses even when they look identical.
Learned the hard way that softer foam blocks compress too much in poses like crow, nearly face-planted when mine squished down. But wait till you hear what happened when I tried using my kid’s building blocks.
