Set of two yoga blocks
Essential for symmetrical poses and balanced support, allowing for full body alignment and deeper exploration of various yoga postures.
Sport & Fitness
Yoga & pilates blocks
6 kinds worth knowing, 8 picks, and what to check before you buy.
Yoga and pilates blocks suit anyone who practises at home or carries a mat to class, from a sister who is new to yoga to a friend with a daily pilates habit. The blocks that get used are the ones that feel right in the hand: not too soft, not too heavy, and the right size for the poses the person actually does. A set of two yoga blocks is the most practical choice, because many poses call for one under each hand. A lightweight travel yoga block makes more sense for someone who walks or cycles to a studio. Think about where they practise and what they already own, then choose the material and weight to match.
Kind 1 of 6
A matching pair for everyday practice
A pair of blocks is the most useful version of this gift. Many standing poses and seated stretches work best with a block under each hand, and teachers often ask for two in class. A pair suits someone who already practises regularly, and it also suits a beginner building a home setup. Before buying, check that both blocks are the same size and firmness, that the edges are rounded so they sit comfortably in the hand, and that the colour goes with a mat they already have.
Versatile foam yoga block
Ideal for beginners and experienced practitioners seeking gentle support and extended reach in various poses.
Kind 2 of 6
Recycled foam for the eco-minded
These blocks are made partly or fully from recycled foam, so they feel much like a standard foam block but with less new material. They suit a friend who pays attention to what things are made of and would appreciate that detail. Before buying, check what share of the foam is recycled, whether the surface has any smell when new, and whether the texture is even. Recycled foam can look speckled, which some people like and others don't, so consider their taste.
Eco-friendly recycled foam block
An environmentally conscious choice for yogis seeking sustainable props that provide reliable support and contribute to reduced waste.
Kind 3 of 6
Extra-large blocks for more height
An extra-large block is taller and wider than a standard one, so it gives more lift in seated poses and a broader base to rest on during restorative work. It suits someone who finds standard blocks too short, or who likes slow, supported classes. Before buying, compare the dimensions with a regular block, check that it is firm enough to hold its shape under weight, and think about storage, since a bigger block takes up noticeably more shelf space.
Extra-large yoga support block
Offers enhanced stability and a wider surface area, making it suitable for restorative poses or individuals needing more extensive support.
Kind 4 of 6
Firm blocks in cork or wood
Cork blocks are dense and heavier than foam, with a natural texture that many people find pleasant to hold. Solid wood blocks are firmer still, and they appeal to someone who likes a block that looks good left out in a room. Both suit an experienced practitioner who wants a solid, unmoving surface. Before buying, check the weight if they carry gear to class, look for smooth or rounded edges, and remember that cork can crumble slightly at the corners over time.
Firm natural cork yoga block
Perfect for yogis who prefer a sturdy, non-slip surface and robust support for deeper stretches and balancing poses.
Solid wood pilates block
Provides unyielding stability and precise alignment for Pilates exercises, assisting with core engagement and controlled movements.
Kind 5 of 6
Dense foam blocks for pilates work
High-density foam gives more resistance than a soft craft-style block while staying light and easy to wipe clean. It suits someone who does mat pilates and uses a block between the knees or under the hips during floor work. Before buying, press test the firmness if possible, or look for a clear description of density, and check that the size fits the exercises they do. A block that squashes too easily loses its shape quickly.
High-density foam pilates block
Delivers firm yet comfortable support for Pilates routines, aiding in proper form and controlled muscle activation without the rigidity of wood.
Kind 6 of 6
Light blocks that travel well
A travel block is slimmer or lighter than a standard block, so it fits in a tote or backpack alongside a mat. It suits a friend who practises in hotel rooms, at the park, or at a studio they walk to. Before buying, check the weight and thickness, since some travel blocks trade height for portability. A foldable or thinner design may not suit every pose, so it works best as a second block rather than their only one.
Lightweight travel yoga block
Designed for practitioners who want to maintain their routine on the go, offering portable support without adding significant weight to luggage.
How to choose yoga & pilates blocks as a gift
- Find out whether they mostly do yoga or pilates, since pilates often uses softer, denser foam and yoga often calls for firmer blocks.
- Choose a pair over a single block when unsure, because most poses that use blocks work better with two.
- Match the weight to their routine: cork and wood suit home practice, while light foam suits carrying to class.
- Look at what mat and props they already own so the new blocks fill a gap instead of duplicating gear.
Usually safe to skip
- Very soft, thin foam blocks that compress under light pressure tend to lose shape and end up unused in a closet.
- Heavy solid wood or cork blocks for someone who carries everything to a studio, since the extra weight quickly becomes a nuisance.
- Novelty-shaped blocks that look fun but lack a flat, stable base, because they rarely work for the poses people actually do.
Questions people ask about yoga & pilates blocks
- Should I buy one yoga block or two?
- Two is usually the better gift. Many poses use a block under each hand, and studios often set out pairs. A single block works as an add-on for someone who already owns one, or as a travel block alongside their main set.
- Is cork or foam better for a yoga block?
- Cork is firmer, heavier and has a natural feel, which suits steady home practice. Foam is lighter, softer and easier to carry, which suits beginners, pilates and anyone bringing gear to class. Think about how and where they practise.
- What makes a good yoga block gift for a beginner?
- A pair of medium-firm foam blocks in a standard size is a safe choice. They are light, forgiving to hold and useful across many poses. Pick a colour that suits their mat so the set feels like a thoughtful match.
Looking for one person in particular? Shop by person.
Everything else
All yoga & pilates blocks picks
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