At Yoga Beyond the Studio, our mission is to help more people find approachable yoga. We specialize in working with beginners and making yoga accessible to everybody and every body.

When you start practicing yoga, it can be challenging to know what equipment you need to get started. Worry not, we’re here to help you make good decisions that will support your healthy new yoga habit.

Let’s start with the good news – you don’t need much to get started. Plus, the recommendations you’ll find in this guide are of products that use high-quality materials so making these purchases is more of an investment in your well-being.

The opinions described below are the opinions of the writer of this article. This post contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products.

Essential Equipment

So what equipment is essential to a beginner yogi?

To get started with your yoga practice, you’ll need the right yoga mat, and the right yoga clothing.

For beginners, we also recommend yoga blocks, and a yoga bolster. More on that later.

Yoga Mat

Your yoga mat creates traction for your hands and feet so you don’t slip, especially as you get a little sweaty. It also provides cushioning on a hard floor (your knees will thank you for choosing an extra soft mat). Plus, the mat defines your personal space.

Premium yoga mats that are made from quality materials are a worthy investment.

You’ll often find a starter mat at various retailers (think Walmart, Target) for as little as $20. If you decide to buy a cheaper mat, you may find yourself replacing it in short order if you use it often.

Our take: Don’t look for the cheapest yoga mat. Invest in a great thick mat.

Here are our recommendations for the top yoga mats for beginners and experienced yogis alike:

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Liforme Original Yoga Mat – Free Yoga Bag Included - Patented Alignment System, Warrior-like Grip, Non-slip, Eco-friendly, sweat-resistant, 4.2mm thick mat for comfort - Grey
  • TRANSFORM YOUR PRACTICE – This Premium Yoga mat is designed to be the most innovative & comfortable mat on the market to optimise your home exercises. This product comes with a free Yoga bag.
  • ULTIMATE GRIP – This premium mat benefits from the ground-breaking Liforme “GripForMe” material that gives you unparalleled warrior-like grip whilst practicing.
  • REVOLUTIONARY ALIGNMENT SYSTEM – Our intelligently designed unique “AlignForMe” system helps guide and prevent injuries to Yogis of all experience levels, maximising Yoga enjoyment.
  • TRULY PLANET FRIENDLY – Liforme incorporates the most ‘body kind’ specially engineered eco-polyurethane and rubber. These mats are PVC free and made using high quality non-toxic materials that...
  • MADE BY YOGIS, FOR YOGIS – Liforme Yoga Mats are loved and adored by 100s of 1000s of Women and Men Worldwide. Join the Liforme family with this unique, comfortable and thick Mat.
Manduka PRO Yoga Mat – Premium 6mm Thick Mat, Eco Friendly, Oeko-Tex Certified, Ultra Dense Cushioning for Support & Stability in Yoga, Pilates, Gym and Any General Fitness, Black Sage, 85" x 26"
  • BEST IN CLASS MAT: Our PRO multipurpose workout mat is the #1 recommended mat by fitness instructors and yoga therapists all over the world, built to last a lifetime
  • HIGH DENSITY CUSHION: Ultra-dense, 6 mm cushioning provides superior support, stability, and joint protection, along with comfort on any surface
  • RESPONSIBLY MADE: Each mat is meticulously handmade in an emissions-free German facility with 100% latex-free PVC that has been certified STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX; Handmade products may vary slightly...
  • BREAKING IN YOUR MAT: The non slip grip of the mat will improve with use, and textured top layer allows you to flow between postures without sticking; Keep practicing to break your mat in over time
  • CARE INSTRUCTIONS: Our closed-cell material helps keep out moisture, but to keep your mat clean and smelling fresh, use our Yoga Mat Wash & Refresh spray and Botanical Cleaner *other cleaning...

If you’re on a strict budget, consider these options instead:

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HemingWeigh Yoga Mat 1 inch Extra Thick | Non Slip Black (70"L x 23"W)
  • All purpose 70" long 23" wide mat, made with high density foam, 1" thick anti-tear premium foam material
  • Thoroughly engineered to support all types of yoga routines; Non slip feature allows you to maintain perfect balance; Prevents sprains and fractures due to falling; Anti tear allows durability for...
  • Travel yoga mat; Bring to the studio or stay at home; The easy strapping system and lightweight feature allows less time and effort to roll and carry with you wherever you want to go; Enjoy the...
  • Long enough for stretching; Wide enough for movement; Great for Ashtanga yoga and even Hatha yoga; No more yoga poses off the mat
  • Eco friendly and easy to clean; Made with soft, flexible, and safe NBR material to keep your health at ease; The smart choice for nature caring yogis like yourself
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Gaiam Yoga Mat Premium Print Reversible Extra Thick Non Slip Exercise & Fitness Mat for All Types of Yoga, Pilates & Floor Workouts, Dandelion Roar, 68"L x 24"W x6mm Thick
  • LIGHTWEIGHT & THICK YOGA MAT: These durable, yet lightweight exercise yoga mats are extra thick for the additional cushioning your joints need during any yoga or fitness routine
  • REVERSIBLE: Yoga mat features a reversible design textured sticky non-slip surface for excellent traction and superior grip two design options to suit any mood will help to keep you motivated and...
  • NON TOXIC & 6P FREE PVC yoga mat is a healthier choice for you and the planet and free of DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP and DNOP (Note: For best results unroll and air out your mat for 2 3 days before...
  • FREE YOGA CLASS: Yoga mat purchase includes a free bonus downloadable yoga workout to help get you started
  • DIMENSIONS: 68 inches L x 24 inches W x 6mm Thick

Yoga Clothing

While not technically required if you’re practicing yoga on your own, if anyone else is around – it’s generally a good idea to have some clothes on.

Our take: Start with comfortable breathable athletic apparel you already own and purchase mid-level basics for anything you’re missing.

Women’s Yoga Pants

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THE GYM PEOPLE Thick High Waist Yoga Pants with Pockets, Tummy Control Workout Running Yoga Leggings for Women (X-Large, Marble)
  • Please check the Size Chart ( Last Image ) Before Ordering. Please Note: Color May Vary Slightly From Image. and don't worry about size problems, you can through the Online Returns Center exchange it...
  • Comfortable High Waist: Wide Waist Elastic Waistband to Cover Navel Which provides Tummy Control and Would not Fall. Suitable for Capri, Workout, Fitness.
  • Ultra-Stretch Fit ( Enough thickness with breathability: No See-through) Featuring the super soft and skin-friendly material, the Workout Leggings are moisture-wicking with a four-way stretch material...
  • For Daily Wear:Nylon fabrics have a more natural feeling than polyester ones which makes it perfect for everyday wear.This Yoga Leggings can also act as comfortable shapewear that keeps you hugged in...
  • Side Pockets & Inner Pocket: No more worry about your essentials such as phone, wallet, sweat towel when doing every workout thanks to two big pockets on both sides. A hidden inner pocket in the back...

Why We Love It? Comfortable High Waist, Pockets, Wide-Waist Elastic Waistband, and over 28,000 5-star reviews.

Fengbay 2 Pack High Waist Yoga Pants, Pocket Yoga Pants Tummy Control Workout Running 4 Way Stretch Yoga Leggings
  • 4 Way Stretch&Non See-through Fabric: We have to tell you that this is good elasticity and 4 Way Stretch non see-through fabric - perfect for yoga, exercise, fitness, any type of workout, or everyday...
  • Intimate Inner&Outside Pocket: Hidden waistband inner pocket to stash your keys,intimate outside pocket can be put for cell phone or any essentials.Please choose your favorite style carefully.Please...
  • High Wais&Health Fitness: Fengbay Women's workout pants are designed with high-waist,tummy control wide waistband contours your curves and give you a streamlined look. Unique fitness and compression...
  • Moisture Wicking&Comfort: Yoga capris leggings for women are made from the highest quality fabrics designed to remove moisture from your body,provides lightweight comfort along with sweat absorption...
  • Warranty: You are bound to find your favorite one here! Select your favorite and "Add to Cart" now! If you are not satisfied with our products, please just simply return them and get your money back...

Why We Love It? Pockets, 4 Way Stretch, with some reviewers saying these are incredibly comfortable, breathable, and would even make Big Bird look good.


Women’s Yoga Tops

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CRZ YOGA Seamless Workout Tank Tops for Women Racerback Athletic Camisole Sports Shirts with Built in Bra Black Small
  • Designed for low-impact workouts
  • Seamless collection: chafe-free, breathable, moisture-wick and four-way stretch
  • Slim fit, hip length
  • Smooth spaghetti strap racerback design allows natural range of motion
  • Built in shelf bra with removable pads provides light support and coverage

Why We Love It? Lightweight, stretchy compression, moisture-wicking, and soft fabric gives you a better experience than many of the more expensive brands.

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Aeuui Womens Workout Tops for Women Racerback Tank Tops Mesh Yoga Shirts Athletic Running Tank Tops Sleeveless Gym Clothes Orange
  • 95% Polyester 5% Spandex, Soft and breathable
  • Super soft mesh stitching on the back is more suitable for sports, helps keep the air flowing, provides you more comfort.【Colors with larger mesh holes: White, Dark Green and Dark Blue】
  • Perfect tank tops for yoga, running, exercise, fitness, gym, any type of workout or just daily wear
  • Lightweight sweat absorbent fabric, quickly volatilize your sweat, make your movement more refreshing
  • The workout tops make of Skin-friendly, sweat-wicking fabric which helps keep you cool and dry, not easy to shrink or deform after washing. Fabric is NOT solid color

Why We Love It? Sweat-absorbent fabric and 95% Polyester 5% Spandex, Soft and breathable.

Sports Bras

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FITTIN Racerback Sports Bras for Women - Padded Seamless High Impact Support for Yoga Gym Workout Fitness
  • Versatile Comfort:FITTIN sports bra is designed to offer unparalleled comfort and enough support across a wide range of activities, perfect for sports training like basketball, soccer, tennis, and...
  • Removable Padded And Racerback Design:Our sports bra features strategically placed padding to offer enhanced shape and ample support. The 26D wrap-around design ensures maximum comfort and freedom...
  • Full Coverage Comfort: Specifically crafted for a seamless fit, these racerback sports bras pack offer full coverage with no side seams to minimize friction. The back hollow-out designs enhance...
  • Universal Fit:The FITTIN sports bra is the perfect fit for a wide range of individuals, from athletes and fitness enthusiasts engaged in rigorous training to outdoor activity lovers. It provides...
  • Exceptional Customer Service: With years of expertise in crafting women's activewear, we take pride in the quality of our sports bras. Feel confident in our product, and reach out to us with any...

Why We Love It? A high-quality choice. Unparalleled comfort and enough support across a wide range of activities with moisture-wicking properties.

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RUNNING GIRL Sports Bra for Women, Criss-Cross Back Padded Strappy Sports Bras Medium Support Yoga Bra with Removable Cups A-White
  • WHY WE MADE THIS:Need a sports bra that does it all? Look no further! This sweat-wicking cross-strap bra gives you the coverage and support you need for yoga, run, and the gym—without restricting...
  • UNIQUE DESIGN:Criss Criss-cross back detailing gives the V-neck Bra its signature style. But it doesn't just look good, it's hard working. Heat transfer tech, a lined shelf bra, and the sports bra for...
  • WHAT CAN WE OFFER YOU : Moisture-wicking Technology Metial Which Mean that You Can Enjoy Keeping Your Body Cool & Dry. Super Soft Elastic Band for Comfort & Movement Which Will Allow You Can Enjoy...
  • VERSATILE SPORTS BRA: Perfect bra for yoga,exercise,fitness,any type of workout,or everyday use. RUNNING GIRL Yoga bra combine fashion, function and performance. This stylish sport bra is great for...
  • 100% SATISFACTION SERVICE: You decide what's best for you. We stand behind the quality of our bras and offer 30-Days NO RISK customer service. If you are not satisfied for any reason, feel free to...

Why We Love It? Reliable, affordable, and supportive. What’s not to like?

Sweatbands

QiShang 6Pack Sweat Bands Headbands for Women Workout, Women's Fashion Non Slip Headband, Moisture Wicking Sweatband for Sports Running Athletic Yoga
  • MOISTURE WICKING: Are you still worried about sweat running into your eyes when you exercise? Try QiShang Women's workout headband! It keeps your forehead dry and sweat out of your eyes, allowing you...
  • BREATHABLE AND NON-SLIP: The QiShang Fitness Headband is made of nylon and spandex. Soft and breathable, will not cause skin discomfort. There are two silicone non-slip strips inside the headband to...
  • ELASTIC AND COMFORTABLE: The headbands are made of soft and highly elastic nylon that fits different women's head circumference. They are not too tight or too loose, so you will feel comfortable while...
  • WIDELY USED: The sports headband has a fashionable design and bright colors, which can be used by both men and women. It can match with all kinds of beautiful clothes. You can also wear it to...

Why We Love It? It does exactly what you want a sweatband to do. Simple and reasonably priced.

Recommended Equipment

Now that essentials are covered let’s talk about yoga props that are optional, but recommended (especially for beginners to yoga).

Yoga props allow students to maintain the healthiest alignment and help get the most out of each pose while avoiding injury.

We absolutely love using yoga props as we believe they can help make yoga more accessible to even the tightest of humans.

Yoga Blocks

Manduka Yoga Block - Fine-Grain Cork Block, Yoga Equipment, Home Gym Accessory, Pilates Tool, Lightweight for Travel, Extra Firm Workout Accessory with Comfortable Edges
  • MANDUKA CORK BLOCK: Made of sustainable cork, this high-quality cork yoga block has a firmness not found in foam blocks and allows you to feel secure in the support it provides. Easy to grip textured...
  • SAFE AND EFFECTIVE: Improve your practice by using blocks to maintain proper alignment, deepen your stretches, and to help stay safe by reducing injury and muscle strain. Perfect for restorative yoga...
  • LIGHTWEIGHT AND STURDY: Cork blocks have a firmness and support not found in foam blocks. Featuring a rounded edge for maximum comfort, support, and grip. Manduka’s Cork Yoga Block weighs less than...
  • SUSTAINABLE CORK: Cork is a renewable, sustainable material. Responsibly made with no toxic chemicals produced during harvesting or manufacturing. Manduka is committed to creating responsibly sourced...
  • PRODUCT DETAILS: 9" x 6" x 4" Cork yoga block; Keep your blocks looking great by wiping down after each use with Manduka's Botanical Cleaner

Why We Love It? Because they are amazing. Made of sustainable cork, this high-quality cork yoga block has a firmness not found in foam blocks and allows you to feel secure in the support it provides.

Plus, the easy-to-grip textured surface makes it an awesome choice for yoga.

Yoga Bolsters

A yoga bolster supports the body during yoga, meditation, or relaxation. It is also helpful to have in certain poses.

Gaiam Yoga Bolster - Long, Rectangular Meditation Pillow - Supportive Cushion for Restorative Yoga and Sitting on the Floor - Built-In Carrying Handle - Machine Washable Cover'
  • YOGA BOLSTER: Supports the body during yoga, meditation or relaxation
  • ALL NATURAL FILLING: Filled with natural cotton batting for superior comfort and cushion
  • HANDLE STRAP: Yoga pillow features a sturdy handle for hassle-free transport to easily grab the meditation cushion and go
  • CARE INFO: Machine washable removable cover is easily removable to toss in the washing machine
  • MATERIALS: Cover = 100% polyester / Interior = Natural cotton batting

Why We Love It? It is filled with natural cotton batting for superior comfort and cushion and features a sturdy handle for hassle-free transport.

Yoga Straps

Straps help you stretch certain muscles during your practice. Lots of classes and yoga types do not require a yoga strap, but for some poses, a strap can be very helpful.

Tumaz Yoga Strap/Stretch Bands [15+ Colors, 6/8/10 Feet Options] with Extra Safe Adjustable D-Ring Buckle, Durable and Comfy Delicate Texture - Best for Daily Stretching, Physical Therapy, Fitness
  • ◆【Strap In, Stretch Out】 - Tumaz yoga strap is a simple, non-elastic band that provides extra stability and flexibility to stretching, yoga, therapy, workout, and more.
  • ◆【Just the Best】 - 4 mm welded D-ring buckles, 2.5 mm thickness, eco-friendly dyeing, special tight-knit technique, and delicate texture. The best strap you can find in the market.
  • ◆【A Ton of Safety】 - It's literally a ton! With our extra thick and special knit technique, the maximum load of the band is "2,379 lbs (1.079 ton)" ⚠️The strap is designed for yoga,...
  • ◆【What's Your Color】 - Pick a color to make your yoga day bright and joyful! Show your personality and share it with everyone!
  • ◆【Unmatched Cusomer Service】 - 100% satisfied or fully refunded! Tumaz provides a replacement or refund for ALL products within the 60-day warranty period. No reason needed, smooth and simple!

Why We Love It? It is a simple, non-elastic band that provides extra stability and flexibility for stretching and yoga.

Featuring 4 mm welded D-ring buckles, 2.5 mm thickness, eco-friendly dyeing, special tight-knit technique, and delicate texture.

Yoga Blankets

A yoga blanket can prove quite useful in yoga. It stands in the gap when flexibility is limited, it can help cushion certain poses, and provides cozy warmth as you slip into Savasana (that fun pose where you just lie on your back and relax).

Benevolence LA Authentic Handwoven Mexican Blanket, Yoga Blanket - Perfect Outdoor Picnic Blanket, Camping Blanket, Equestrian Saddle Blanket, Serape Blanket 50x70 inches - Gray, Pack of 1
  • HANDMADE PREMIUM MEXICAN BLANKET: Our serape and baja blankets are cozy, practical, and full of vibrant colors to add joy wherever you take them. Offered in pack of 1, each Aztec blanket is unique,...
  • THE PERFECT YOGA BLANKET: Take this high-quality Mexican blanket to your yoga practice. Super soft, breathable, and easy to carry - choose your colors and mix for your workouts!
  • VERSATILE & STYLISH: Perfect for every adventure, these Mexican blankets are your go-to blanket for yoga, picnics, long summer nights, park blanket, summer blanket or to cuddle in while relaxing at...
  • SOFT & DURABLE: Twin bed size (50x70 inches), lightweight (3 pounds), and soft - these serape blankets are made to last! They get softer and more comfortable with every wash, while you enjoy their...
  • WARM AND THOUGHTFUL HOLIDAY GIFT: Our authentic Mexican blankets make perfect Christmas presents, ideal for cozy winter nights, yoga sessions, outdoor adventures, or adding a vibrant touch to any home...

Why We Love It? Cozy, practical, and full of vibrant colors to add joy wherever you take them.

Myofascial Release Props

Myofascial Release is a type of physical therapy often used to help relieve pain caused by sensitivity and tightness in your myofascial tissues. These tissues surround and support the muscles throughout your body.

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Posture Magic Massage Ball Set for Myofascial Trigger Point Release & Deep Tissue Massage - Set of 6 - Large Foam/Small Foam/Lacrosse/Peanut/Spiky/Hand Exercise Ball (Blue)
  • THE MOST COMPLETE MASSAGE BALL KIT - Our 6 in 1 massage ball set was specifically designed for people who are looking for deep tissue massage, myofascial & trigger point release. Our bundle pack...
  • TONS OF BENEFITS - Exercises using the Posture Magic Massage Ball Set can help you to increase blood flow and tissue hydration, relieve knots & tightness, alleviate muscle pain, improve athletic...
  • EASY TO USE - Simply lean on the floor, against a wall or table, use your own body weight to release tight muscle knots and tension. We provide you several options of massage balls with different...
  • PORTABLE & DURABLE - The massage balls are made of 100% EVA foam or 100% high density rubber. They are high quality, latex free, non-toxic and durable designed for withstand heavy & repeated use...
  • THE POSTURE MAGIC PROMISE: We at Posture Magic stand behind our products with the greatest confidence that you, our customer will love our products just as much as we do. However, if for any reason...

Why We Love It? It’s a 6 in 1 massage ball set was specifically designed for people who are looking for deep tissue massage, myofascial & trigger point release.

The bundle pack includes a large foam ball (3.5”), a small foam ball (2.6”), a smooth lacrosse ball (2.5”), a peanut ball (5.5”), a spiky ball (3”), a hand exercise ball (2.6”), a carry bag and a comprehensive exercise guide.

Meditation Cushion

Meditation cushions can benefit people who meditate. The cushions provide support and comfort — most of them lift the hips off the floor to support the lumbar spine’s natural curvature.

This support relieves the excess pressure that a person may experience if they have difficulties maintaining good posture.

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Florensi Meditation Cushion - Comfortable Floor Pillow - Traditional Tibetan Meditation Pillow with Beautiful Velvet Cover - Large Floor Cushion Seating for Adults - Yoga Pillows for Sitting on Floor
  • Cozy Meditation Floor Cushion: Create a peaceful spot with our meditation cushions. Perfect for yoga and meditation, this thick cushion can also be a comfy seat for working at a low table. Ideal as a...
  • Eco-Friendly Comfort: Our round meditation pillows for sitting on floor are packed with 100% buckwheat hulls, connecting you to nature, and topped with foam padding for extra softness. You can switch...
  • Supportive Posture: This yoga meditation cushion places you in a natural seated position, reducing stress on joints, easing back pain, and boosting circulation. Our yoga pillows for sitting on floor...
  • Stylish And Portable: This round meditation cushion is made from soft grey velvet with a simple yet elegant pattern, this round meditation pillow doubles as a decor for your home or studio. Easily...
  • Florensi’s Wellness Commitment: At Florensi, we're all about enhancing your wellness journey. Our floor cushions for adults are designed to support your physical and mental well-being while...

Why We Love It? With over 6000 5-star reviews, this meditation pillow can be a great complement to your meditation practice.

Equipment Getting-Started Checklist

So to summarize, here is a checklist to help you make sure you have the props you need to get started with your yoga practice:

  • Yoga Mat
  • Yoga Clothing
  • Yoga Blocks
  • Yoga Bolsters
  • Yoga Straps
  • Yoga Blanket
  • Myofascial Release Props
  • Meditation Cushion

Private Yoga Classes for Beginners to Yoga

Here at Yoga Beyond The Studio we offer online private yoga classes and in-person private yoga classes that are designed for beginners to the world of yoga.

Ease into the practice at your pace with the guidance of a highly-experienced certified yoga instructor.

Check out our blog article 9 Benefits of Taking Private Yoga Classes to learn more.

Click here to book your private yoga class or contact us for any questions or concerns.