Cork Yoga Blocks: Small But Mighty!

When you think of Pilates props, the Cork Yoga Blocks might not seem like a game-changer at first glance. It’s simple, rectangular, and humble—yet once you start using it, you’ll quickly realize just how powerful this little “brick” can be.

I’ve been using Yoga Blocks in my practice for years—both personally and with my clients. They come in all shapes, densities, and colours, but my absolute favourite (and the one I keep reaching for) is the Manduka Cork Yoga Block. It’s strong, non-slip, eco-friendly, and—most importantly—doesn’t wobble or buckle under pressure.

WHY THE CORK YOGA BLOCK IS SO SPECIAL

Just before COVID, I had the privilege of diving deeper into Yoga Block training with my mentor James D’Silva, founder of the Garuda Method. He lovingly calls it “The Brick.” And let me tell you, this modest block is far more than just a spacer for your hands in yoga poses.

• Strength for hands, wrists, and arms: The block’s weight (about 2 lbs) challenges your grip, forearms, and shoulders in ways you’d never expect.

• Stability without slip: It grips the mat beautifully and doesn’t slide away like softer foam blocks sometimes do.

• Perfect versatility: Place it under your hips, between your knees, or in your hands—you’ll get strength, stretch, and alignment support all in one.

And yes, ideally, you’ll want two Cork Blocks. That way, you can double the benefits for balance and coordination work.

PILATES + CORK BLOCK MAGIC

Here are a few of my favourite Pilates-inspired ways to use your Cork Blocks—simple, effective, and wonderfully strengthening.

1. Abdominal Curl

Start: Lie on your back holding one or two Cork Yoga Blocks in your hands, elbows slightly bent.

Movement: Curl the upper body forward while holding the blocks steady. Reps X10

Targets: Abdominals, arms, hands, shoulder stabilizers

2. Bridge with Inner-Thigh Connection

Start: Lay on your back. Place the block between bent knees, feet grounded.

Movement: Lift hips into bridge while squeezing the block, then lower slowly. Reps X10

Targets: Inner thighs, glutes, hamstrings

3. Seated Spine Twist

Start: Sit tall with legs extended, holding a block between your palms.

Movement: Rotate the torso while pressing palms into the block. Reps X5 sets

Targets: Obliques, arms, hands, chest, shoulder stability

4. Plank on the Blocks

Start: Place both hands on the blocks and push up to plank position.

Movement: Hold steady, pressing evenly through palms. Hold 30 secs.

Targets: Core, arms, shoulders, wrist stabilizers

Taylor’d Tips: Connection creates strength—press evenly and breathe.

WHY THE CORK BLOCKS BELONG IN YOUR TOOLKIT

Think of the Cork Yoga Blocks as your steady training partner—reliable, adaptable, and always up for a challenge.

• Strengthens the hands, wrists, arms, and shoulders

• Improves balance, coordination, and posture

• Enhances flexibility and alignment awareness

• Adds creativity, challenge, and support to every workout

Plus, it’s easy to clean, eco-friendly, and small enough to store anywhere. Whether you’re a Pilates teacher, yoga enthusiast, or simply love tools that help you move better, the Cork Blocks will keep you inspired and progressing.

READY TO TRY IT?

I recommend the size: 4"x6"x9" for the average person.

If you have smaller hands, you could get the 2.75" x 4" x 8.5" size.

And I always recommend getting a 2-pack as you will most often use 2 blocks at once.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products that I personally use and believe in.

Grab your own: Manduka Cork Yoga Blocks from Amazon.

Explore movement ideas in my book:

Get my book on Amazon: Pilates on the BOSU®: FUNDAMENTALS on Amazon

(many ideas can be adapted for the Cork Blocks).

Get my co-authored book on Amazon: Get On It!: BOSU® Balance Trainer on Amazon

Learn more about the BOSU® Pro on Amazon: BOSU® Pro on Amazon

Start simple, play, and discover just how much power this little block can bring to your practice!

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Heads up! This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I personally use and believe in. Also, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.