Using Props in Vinyasa Yoga: A Guide for Students and Teachers

The Vinyasa Yoga Journey: Where It All Begins and How to Incorporate Using Props

Student demonstrates vinyasa yoga with props.

Many students begin their yoga journey with vinyasa yoga, a dynamic and heat-building practice that flows through Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskars). From the fundamental Sun Salutation A and B to more advanced sequences inspired by Ashtanga yoga, vinyasa is often labeled as an "all-levels" practice—meaning it's accessible to beginners and advanced practitioners alike. However, to fully benefit from vinyasa yoga, a foundational understanding of Sun Salutations is key.

Yoga props are an invaluable resource. Here the knee and wrist joints are protected.

Using Props in Vinyasa: A Support or a Crutch?

The use of props in yoga has been debated for years. Some teachers embrace them as tools for balance, deeper stretches, and enhanced comfort, while others view them as a "crutch" that should only be used when absolutely necessary. The reality? Props are an invaluable resource that can elevate a student’s practice—whether by helping them access a pose safely, deepening mobility, or preventing injury.

Unfortunately, not all studios or teachers incorporate props, either due to lack of resources, personal teaching philosophy, or logistical constraints like storage and sanitation requirements. If you're a teacher who values props, it's essential to have a clear plan for integrating them seamlessly into your class.

It helps to have some pre-planned poses that you want to practice with props. Plan or Play? Explore your class options!

How to Incorporate Using Props in Your Vinyasa Class

Want to introduce props into your vinyasa classes but unsure where to start?

Keep it simple. A well-thought-out approach can make props feel like a natural extension of the practice rather than an afterthought.

Here are some tips for seamless prop integration:

✅ Choose One Key Pose – Select a pose where props make a significant impact, such as using blocks in Half Moon (Ardha Chandrasana) for balance or a strap in Seated Forward Fold (Paschimottanasana) to deepen the stretch.

✅ Build an Intentional Class Theme – Design a sequence that naturally leads to prop exploration, ensuring students feel prepared and engaged.

✅ Dedicate 5-10 Minutes to ‘Prop Play’ – Set aside time within class for students to experiment with the props, encouraging curiosity and exploration.

✅ Encourage Playfulness – Props aren’t just for support; they can bring a sense of fun and creativity to the practice. Let students explore without pressure.

A Vinyasa Flow with Props - Try this sequence to incorporate props into your Vinyasa Flow

Here’s an example vinyasa sequence that seamlessly integrates props into a full-body flow:

1️⃣ Sun Salutation A & B (with optional block support under hands in Forward Fold)

2️⃣ High Lunge with Blocks (hands on blocks for better alignment and stability)

3️⃣ Half Moon with Block (block under bottom hand for balance)

4️⃣ Bridge Pose with Block (block between thighs for engagement)

5️⃣ Seated Forward Fold with Strap (strap around feet for accessibility)

6️⃣ Savasana with Bolster (under knees for spinal relief)

Try incorporating this sequence in your next class, and see how props transform the experience!

What’s Your Take?

Do you use props in your vinyasa practice? Cast your vote below!

Do you use props in your vinyasa practice? Cast your vote below!

• I love props! They help me deepen my practice.
• I use them occasionally but prefer to go without them.
• I rarely use props - I like a challenge of being unassisted.
• I've never tried props but want to learn more!

Leave a comment and share your thoughts!

Are there specific poses where you love using props? Let’s start the conversation.

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