Props I love.
Foam Rollers
love, love, love.
I use them in Pilates to add instability and balance control - both to intensify and modify a movement. Bonus - they can also be used as selfcare prop for rolling tight muscles.
I prefer the long ones without the spikes, as I like to lay my spine along it.
I use this one
Squishy Pilates Ball
Maybe I love this prop the most? It is a love hate sort of feeling.
Gut rolling, hamstring work, extra pulsing in Pilates, I used this prop the most in all of my classes and workouts combined.
There are many different diameters and colours, but the regular 9- 10inch seems to work the best for Pilates.
I use this one.
Rubber Massage Balls
Self care for those hard to reach spaces in between a massage. I have used a lot of small rubber balls and after 10 years I still think YTU balls are the best. The plus size and the Alphas are the longest lasting and feel the best / worst.
you can also use a tennis ball, a lacrosse ball or any smaller ball you find in your kids room.
Yoga Tune Up Balls
*disclaimer - I do bring these in from the states for purchase. Plus + Alpha Available
Resistance Bands
There are so many resistance bands on the market. I do not believe these need to be expensive in order to be effective. The looped ones work really well for pilates and rehab based training.
I tend to stick with fabric based bands vs. the latex stretchy ones for longevity.
Yoga Strap & Blocks
Manduka is by far my favourite brand. They’re pretty, they’re functional and they stand up to a lot of wear and tear. Cork blocks are my favourite for their strength and they never smell after years of use. I am also a fan of the Manduka Yoga Mat. Foam yoga block are okay, but after some wear they tend to get very soft and more difficult to use for balance. Literally, any yoga strap will work.
Yoga Bolster
This is totally not necessary to have for a foundational yoga practice - sure, they are comfy and they look pretty, but a good solid block is way more practical. There are so many different shapes and sizes and densities, so if sticking to a basic one will give you what you need.
As a disclaimer, all of the reviews above are my personal opinions and I have no affiliation with any of the companies and/or links above. I have personally tested and purchased all of these props for my personal and professional use and I do feel like they do stand up to wear and tear.
I would love your feedback if you have tried something that I have missed, or another company I should try.
- Melissa Johnston, RMT & Fitness Professional