The Complete Yoga Equipment Guide: What You Really Need for Your Practice
© Foto Conny Hänchen
If you're new to yoga, the amount of equipment available can feel a little overwhelming. Yoga mats, blocks, straps, bolsters, blankets, wheels, towels…
But here's the good news: you really don't need much to start practicing yoga.
A good mat, comfortable clothes and a little space are enough. Over time, a few carefully chosen props can make your practice more comfortable, accessible and varied. Here are the yoga essentials we actually recommend.
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1. A good yoga mat
Your mat is probably the most important piece of yoga equipment you'll buy. Look for a mat that feels stable, offers enough grip for your practice and provides the right amount of cushioning for your body.
For a long-term investment, we like Manduka. The PRO is a firm, high-density mat designed for regular practice, while the eKO range is made from natural rubber and offers a different feel. With the Code YOGALAB or this Link you get 15% discount on your order:
[→ Explore Manduka yoga mats]*
If you're just starting out, you don't necessarily need a premium mat. Decathlon has affordable options that are great for finding out what you like before investing more.
[→ Explore yoga mats at Decathlon]*
2. Yoga blocks
If you add one prop to your practice, make it two yoga blocks.Blocks aren't just for beginners. They can help bring the floor closer, provide stability, support alignment and make poses more accessible. Foam blocks are lightweight and easy to travel with, while cork blocks tend to feel heavier and more solid.
We've recently started working with Myga, which has a lovely range of yoga props, including lightweight foam blocks.
Use our 10% discount code YOGALAB10 when shopping with Myga.
[→ Explore Myga yoga blocks & props]
3. A yoga strap
A yoga strap is another simple but incredibly versatile prop.
It can help you:
extend your reach
work with tight hamstrings
explore shoulder mobility
create stability
support restorative poses
It's also one of the easiest props to take with you when travelling. Myga offers yoga straps as well as practical 2-in-1 belt and mat carrier options.
[→ Explore Myga yoga straps & accessories]
4. A yoga bolster
A bolster becomes especially useful if you enjoy Yin, Restorative or gentle yoga. It provides support in longer-held poses and allows your body to relax rather than constantly holding itself up. We also love bolsters for evening practices, meditation and simply creating a little more comfort during Savasana.
[→ Explore Myga bolsters & cushions]
5. A yoga blanket
A yoga blanket might not look particularly exciting, but it is one of the most versatile props you can own.
Use it for:
extra warmth during Savasana
support under your hips or knees
restorative poses
meditation
additional cushioning
And unlike many specialised yoga props, it has plenty of uses outside your yoga practice, too. With the Code YOGALAB or this Link you get 15% discount on your order:
[→ Explore Manduka yoga blankets]*
6. A meditation cushion
If meditation is part of your practice, a cushion can make sitting much more comfortable.
It can also be useful for breathwork, Reiki, journaling or a quiet morning ritual.
You don't need to force yourself into a perfect cross-legged position. The goal is simply to create enough support to sit comfortably and breathe. Use our 10% discount code YOGALAB10 when shopping with Myga.
[→ Explore Myga cushions & meditation accessories]
7. A yoga towel
If you practice dynamically or tend to sweat, a yoga towel can be surprisingly useful.
It's especially helpful for:
Vinyasa
Ashtanga
Hot Yoga
outdoor practice
summer yoga
If slippery hands are your main problem, a towel might be a better investment than another yoga prop.
What yoga equipment do you really need?
If you're starting from scratch, we'd keep it simple:
The minimalist yoga setup
Yoga mat
Your main investment.
Two yoga blocks
Useful from your first class onwards.
Yoga strap
Small, affordable and incredibly versatile.
Comfortable clothes
You don't need a special yoga wardrobe.
That's really it.
Then add a bolster, blanket or meditation cushion depending on your practice.
Myga, Manduka or Decathlon?
There isn't one brand that's right for everyone.
Myga is a great place to look for accessible yoga equipment, colourful designs, starter sets and a broad range of props and accessories. Their range includes mats, blocks, straps, bolsters, cushions and support pads.
[→ Shop Myga & use our 10% discount code: YOGALAB10]
Manduka is particularly interesting if you're looking for a high-quality mat that you want to use for many years.
[→ Explore Manduka & use our 15% discount code: YOGALAB]
Decathlon is a great option if you're starting out, travelling or simply don't want to spend a lot on your first set of equipment.
[→ Explore Decathlon yoga equipment]*
Our yoga equipment essentials
If we had to choose just five things, we'd go for:
1. A good yoga mat
2. Two yoga blocks
3. A yoga strap
4. A bolster
5. A blanket
But even that is more than you need to begin. Yoga isn't about collecting the right equipment. Props are simply tools that can support your practice. Start with what you need, add what genuinely helps, and leave the rest. Your most important piece of yoga equipment is still the same one it has always been:
your mat – and the willingness to step onto it.