Equipment:
Equipment isn’t necessary, but it can be helpful.
Smart Watch
Weights:
Resistance bands: example off of Amazon: $16-22
Weighted Vest Weight Vest:
weighted vests may improve bone density and possibly help with osteoporosis prevention due to stimulating bone remodeling from the weight-bearing exercises.
I bought a 12 lb vest off of Amazon; you may want one with less weight – $20-35.
Yoga Props
Bolsters, Straps, and Blocks can offer extra support, stability and comfort
Mats – Yoga mats are essential, often not thought of as a prop, but they’re instrumental to every practice. Mats provide a non-slip surface to reduce the risk of slipping or falling while you’re moving from one yoga pose to the next. These mats are often made with cushioning that you can grip or sink into as you sit, stand or bend. Prices vary based on quality and brand $12-160. These can be picked up at most stores, such as Walmart. Look for one with a good thickness, at least ½ inch.
Blocks – $9-25 – Yoga blocks are typically made of foam, rubber cork, or wood. You may use them to:
- Shorten the distance between your hands and the mat when you’re in a standing or bending pose, like triangle pose or balancing half-moon pose
- Improve your alignment and avoid putting your back at risk as you bend forward
- Provide support under your head and neck when you’re lying down
- Engage or strengthen your muscles by holding them between your thighs during bridge pose or your feet during boat pose
- Add additional comfort and support if you’re not able to come all the way down to the floor for child’s pose
Straps – $5-10 – Yoga straps make stretching more accessible by lengthening reach, which can also help relieve muscle tension. They act as an extension of your limbs when you’re holding a pose, which can be especially helpful if you have a limited range of motion because of stiffness.
Substitutions:
- A rolled-up towel can sub in for yoga blocks or bolster/pillow to provide more support.
- Neckties, belts, or T-shirts are all helpful alternatives to yoga straps.
- A large stack of heavy books or a rolled blanket can substitute for yoga blocks.