Question 1

What thickness yoga mat should I buy?

Accepted Answer

6mm is the safe default. Go thinner (3mm) if you do a lot of standing balance work and want to feel the floor; go thicker (8mm or more) if your knees or wrists hurt on a standard mat, or if you mostly do floor-based Pilates.

Question 2

Do I need yoga blocks as a beginner?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and they help beginners most. Blocks let you hold correct alignment in poses your current range cannot reach, which is how the range actually improves. Two blocks, foam or cork, is the standard pairing.

Question 3

TPE, PVC or natural rubber &mdash; which mat material?

Accepted Answer

TPE is light, recyclable and mid-grip. PVC is the cheapest and most durable but the least eco-friendly. Natural rubber has the best grip when you sweat and the strongest smell for the first week. For hot yoga, choose rubber or a mat with a microfibre top.

Question 4

Does a yoga wheel actually help?

Accepted Answer

For opening the thoracic spine and chest after long hours seated, yes &mdash; it supports the weight of your upper body so you can hold an extension you could not hold unaided. It is a comfort and mobility tool, not a spinal treatment.

Question 5

How do I stop my mat from slipping?

Accepted Answer

Wash new mats before first use to remove the manufacturing film, use a towel over the mat if you sweat heavily, and clean with a diluted vinegar solution rather than oil-based sprays, which make the surface slicker over time.

Recover Ritual

Yoga & Stretching

EVA Yoga Blocks 2-Pack – High-Density Non-Slip Foam Bricks

EVA Yoga Blocks 2-Pack – Pilates Bricks for Home Practice

Extra Thick 1/2-Inch Yoga Mat – Odourless, Non-Slip & Foldable for Travel

Foam Balance Pad 2-Pack – Non-Slip Stability Trainer for Yoga & Physio

Foldable Pilates Ab Board – 5-in-1 Core Training Slab for Home Workouts

Foldable Pilates Reformer 78in – Spring Resistance Carriage for Home

Foldable Travel Yoga Mat – EVA Exercise Mat, 3/4/6mm

Half Balance Ball Trainer 60cm – Stability Dome for Core Training

Half-Round Foam Roller 45x13cm – Yoga & Pilates Balance Post

Half-Round Yoga Block – Non-Slip Stretching Brick for Balance Work

Heavy Duty Yoga Mat Strap – Adjustable Bungee Carrier & Sling, 20″ x 2″

Height-Adjustable Ballet Barre – Freestanding Steel Home Studio Barre