Not sure what yoga mat to get? Or which blocks?
Looking for helpful resources to get you on your way?
That’s what this page is for.
Important note: Some affiliate links are on this page. This means that if you decide to purchase a product linked from here, I will receive a small monetary compensation. Keep in mind: I would never sell something I haven’t used or deem valuable myself. You can read the full affiliate disclaimer here.
Which Yoga Mat should I Buy?
This is one I get asked a lot.
When it comes to yoga mats, you should look at getting a non-stick mat with no harmful chemicals.
Careful with cheaper, poor quality mats.
I went through two yoga mats in over a decade of practice.
First one lasted… maybe its first year? It was a cheap foam one I bought at the hot yoga studio.
The other one is still holding up strong as of time of writing. And that’s a Reversible Lululemon mat.
You can get it here: https://bit.ly/3n5SFOC
Personally, I have and prefer the slimmer, 3mm Reversible Mat. That’s because I like firm foundation for handstands and inversions. Most people will prefer the additional cushioning from the 5mm. In fact, an ex-girlfriend used my 3mm mat and hated it. Then she tried the 5mm and said it was perfect.
Keep that in mind: You can choose between more cushioning (5mm), or firm grounding (3mm).
There are plenty of other yoga mat options. I have heard good things about Lifeform. And I also just recently picked up the BYoga Everyday Mat that I am finding to be really good as well. KINDA wish I went with the 2mm travel one though. The 4mm is a little softer than my Lululemon mat. But again, I like a REALLY firm surface.
Based on my experience, can’t go wrong with any of the mentioned mats above.
Which Yoga Blocks Should I Buy?
I’ll admit I didn’t bother with yoga blocks for the longest time. I always wanted to further my practice without an assist.
But these are some really versatile tools! Especially for strength practices – you can use these blocks in an incredible way. And since I will be publishing more classes for strength, you may want to pick some up so you can participate.
DO NOT get the foam ones.
Firm, cork yoga blocks are the way to go.
You can get your blocks here: https://amzn.to/38Pk2XA
Note: You’ll see me in the yoga videos using the Gaaim Yoga Bricks. However, I would caution you against getting them. Again don’t get the BRICKS. Get the blocks instead (as seen in image above). They will be wider, and much sturdier as a result. Doing push-ups on the bricks will be less sturdy, and less safe as a result. I only got the bricks because they were all that was available when I went to pick them up at a retail store. Should have just bought them from Amazon 🤷🏼♂️
Which Yoga Strap Should I Get?
Yoga straps are also another good tool to have. These will help you get into binds, and deeper stretches.
Doesn’t really matter what you get. I’ve used an old tie before lol!
But now I have the 8′ Manduka Align Yoga Strap and it’s great:
You can get the Manduka Align Yoga Strap here: https://amzn.to/2MMeHch
I am 5’11” and it is plenty for me. They also have a 10′ option as well, if you want something even longer.
Additional Yoga Resources
The above are all you really will need and use more often than anything.
You can get yourself a hot yoga towel, if you are going to hot yoga classes.
I have a specially made BuiltByYoga one that has corner fit pockets. It’s pretty badass! Was actually going to sell it on this website, but didn’t proceed with manufacturing. If you can find a corner fit yoga towel that can fit a Lululemon mat (most of them seem to be for smaller mats) then pick it up.
Otherwise, I have heard good things about Yogitoes Manduka Yoga Mat Towels. Can’t say I have used them myself, however.
Yoga Books
Truthfully, I have a hard time recommending yoga books. But the one that has resonated the best with me, was Baron Baptiste’s Journey Into Power:
You can pick that up here: https://amzn.to/3biZGc4
I like how he approached yoga and his philosophy. Specifically, how he said he was (I am paraphrasing): “taking yoga down from its spiritual mountain top and making it accessible to all.”
That idea resonates well with what we are doing with BuiltByYoga!
The Best Resource for Yoga and Meditation Practices
Have you heard of The 30-Days of Power?
It’s my own program I have put together to help others get into a regular yoga practice, meditation, and self-awareness:
Within these pages is a 30-day transformational program focusing on 3 key areas:
- Yoga
- Meditation
- Journaling
It’s a solid choice for levelling up physically, mentally, and emotionally. And you can get it for as little as $1 in the BBY Academy!
Every member gets instant access to this program (and more).
=> Click here to learn more about the BBY Academy and how you can join.
Hopefully you found these yoga resources helpful.
Good luck on your yoga journey!
Best wishes,
Jason Jacques