Exercise equipment allows you to adapt an exercise to your unique body.
For most classes you’ll want a mat, strap, riser, and possibly a chair.
Yoga Mat
- Thin yoga mat or bare floor is best for standing exercises and balance.
- Thick mat may be used for floor exercises, or standing if you desire more cushion.
- Mats help keep chairs stable for “barre” work.
Resistance Band
- Assists in stretching and relaxation.
- Resistance bands, belts, straps, towels, etc. may be used.
- Resistance bands are available to borrow or you may purchase one for $2.00.
Cushions and Risers
- Risers: Rolled or folded towels or blankets, firm pillows, foam blocks, books, or even a low stool can all be used as risers.
- Sitting on a riser helps you to lengthen your spine during seated stretches.
- When lying on your back, a riser under the head aligns the neck and spine. Use this if your chin is pointing to the ceiling and your head is arched back.
- Sit-ups: Risers can be used under various areas of your back side to prevent over arching or compressing your spine, or for comfort.
- A folded towel placed on the seat of a chair can provide comfort during “barre” work.
- If you feel ankle pain or discomfort when in a butterfly or crossed legged seated position a small towel under the ankles can help.
- A donut cushion, pillow, towel, or blanket can be placed under the hips during side leg lifts for comfort.
Chair
- Chairs are used in place of a ballet bar for standing stretches.
- Chairs may be used for balance during the standing portion of a workout. As you improve your balance and strength, try to use it less and less.
- Choosing the right chair
- How to use a chair
Mirror
- Mirrors are not necessary but helpful for checking alignment.
Please never work through pain or force a stretch. Use equipment to make an exercise work for you!
You won’t need all of these items every class! This is a list of potential tools we may use or that are intended to help you with comfort, aligning your spine and finding your stretch.
A Beginner Guide from Essentrics.com with more guidance about props and getting started with Essentrics.