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.
Table of Contents
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:
- 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.
- 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:
- 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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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
- Fabric type 88% Polyamide, 12% Spandex
- Care instructions Hand Wash Only
- Origin Imported
- Closure type Elastic
- Country of Origin China
Why We Love It? Comfortable High Waist, Pockets, Wide-Waist Elastic Waistband, and over 28,000 5-star reviews.
- Closure type Elastic
- Rise style High Rise
- Leg style Cropped
- Fit type Regular
- 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...
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
- Fabric type Body: 100% Polyamide; Lining: 90% Polyamide, 10% Spandex
- Care instructions Machine Wash
- Origin Imported
- Closure type Pull On
- Country of Origin China
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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Why We Love It? Sweat-absorbent fabric and 95% Polyester 5% Spandex, Soft and breathable.
Sports Bras
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Why We Love It? A high-quality choice. Unparalleled comfort and enough support across a wide range of activities with moisture-wicking properties.
- Fabric type 88% Nylon, 12% Spandex
- Care instructions Machine Wash
- Origin Imported
- Closure type Elastic
- 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...
Why We Love It? Reliable, affordable, and supportive. What’s not to like?
Sweatbands
- Nylon
- 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
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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.
- 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](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81HLyVlk1ZS._AC_SL1500_.jpg)
- ◆【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).
- 100% Recycled Acrylic + Cotton
- 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...
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.
- 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.
- Velvet
- 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...
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.
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