What equipment do I need? | Kilmardinny Yoga

What equipment do I need to practice in-person at a class or online from home?

The good news is that you don't need to spend a fortune on equipment whilst studios and teachers aren't able to provide it.

Yoga mat

You can pick up a cheap mat from supermarkets for about £5 but they are not robust and can be slippy. Unless you will be using it regularly (or have a birthday coming up!), you do not need to go to the other extreme of £80-£90; somewhere inbetween is likely to be fine.

Blanket

Or 2!

A blanket can be handy to put under your knees, wrists, ankles or hips in certain postures if you need a bit of cushioning.

Depending on the class, there may be some restorative postures where a folded blanket can be used as a prop or support; for some poses there is an option to cover yourself.

Classes usually end with savasana (relaxation) and it is generally recommended that you use a blanket to prevent the body cooling too much as you rest, even if you are warm at the start.

Strap

You can buy yoga straps with a 'D' ring for under £5.

For my classes, a tie or a dressing gown belt can usually serve a similar purpose.

A strap (or alternative) tends to be used to aid reaching your feet in some folds or extensions but modifications or variations can be given for those with no strap or when use of a strap isn't suitable.

Blocks

These can be bought from around £5 upwards.

A thick hard-back book can be used instead.

Blocks (or alternative) can be used in various ways as a prop or a support in some postures but again, modifications or variations can be given for those with no block or when use of a block isn't suitable.

Bolster

These can be bought from around £30 upwards.

If you're at home, a sofa cushion or a couple of firm pillows can be used instead.

There are also various Youtube videos showing how to make a bolster using pillows and a pillow case or towel.

Bolsters are lovely and definitely my favourite yoga prop! I just love a supported child's pose, a wide-legged forward fold with a bolster against my forehead or a reclined butterfly... Dreamy!

Eye pillow

A wee treat but not necessary.

These can be bought from around £10 upwards, scented or unscented.

There are also various Youtube videos showing how to make an eye pillow using rice and an old sock!

Used during relaxation at the end.

Fancy yoga clothes

You don't need to buy specific yoga clothing. You just need to wear something comfy that allows you to move freely.

If you have a larger bust, I would advise wearing a medium support sports bra or a full-cup bra which will keep you contained when inverted in down dog!

It is preferable to practice yoga barefoot to improve connection to the earth and give better stability. Socks can be put on to keep you warm during relaxation.

For in-person classes, the windows will be open so I would suggest layers: a vest top, a t-shirt, a long-sleeved cotton t-shirt-style top, a light-weight fleece or zipper top (preferably without a hood as it can get in the way) - enough to keep you warm whilst still being able to move!