Try to remember back to the day when you first attempted Urdhva Dhanurasana or Wheel Pose. I remember that my shoulders would barely lift off the ground and my elbows were just not willing to straighten. When I finally broke through to my first wheel that actually felt good.Β I wanted to squeal with excitement! In hindsight, I wish I had applied yoga props to my practice when I was learning to open up the back and heart in backbends. A full wheel requires open shoulders, armpits, heart and spine. Laying on a block and allowing the heart to open slowly, even just for a few minutes a day, will make your transition into a backbend 100 times better andΒ safer!

Below are some props that we’ve curated to assist with opening up the back for a healthy and regular backbend practice. Backbends, we’re coming for you!

Best Backbend Yoga Prop #1: Infinity Yoga Strap

Infinity Yoga Strap

The Infinity Strap is made of a high-tech, high-resistance hybrid material that stretches like the human body. It has no hardware, making it safe and quiet during use. Suitable for various activities like yoga, dance, and strength training, it’s easy to use with a timeless infinity design. It’s available in Original (cotton) and Stretch (elastic) versions, with an infinity shape allowing for versatile use in yoga poses like dancer’s pose or inversions. It comes in multiple beautiful colors, doesn’t lose its shape, and is available in three sizes.

 

Best Backbend Yoga Prop #2: Yoga Design Lab Yoga Wheel

Yoga Design Lab Yoga Wheel

The Yoga Design Lab Yoga Wheel is designed to help open the chest, shoulders, back, and hip flexors, enhancing yoga poses by achieving deeper stretches and smoother backbends. It’s durable and offers maximum support for challenging postures, able to withstand over 200lbs. With its recyclable materials and included posture guide, it’s suitable for beginners to advanced yogis. It’s a beautiful, high-quality wheel that’s heavy enough to be stable yet easy to maneuver, making it a great choice for yoga enthusiasts.

Best Backbend Yoga Prop #3: OPTP Yoga Stretch Strap

OPTP Yoga Stretch Strap

The OPTP Stretch Out Strap, made of nylon in the USA, is a top choice stretching strap for physical therapy, recommended by professionals since 1993. It’s versatile, suitable for yoga, Pilates, and various exercises. With ten loops and a length of 6 feet, it’s durable and ideal for heavy use. This strap offers health benefits like improved flexibility and reduced risk of injury, and it comes with an exercise booklet and video guide. It’s designed for easy adjustment without fumbling with metal fasteners, making it perfect for yoga, stretching, and physical therapy.

 

Best Backbend Yoga Prop #4: URBNFit Exercise Ball (Multiple Sizes)

URBNFit Exercise Ball

The URBNFit Exercise Ball is made of sturdy PVC material, ensuring it can handle rigorous workouts up to 600 lbs without bursting. Its non-slip surface provides a safe grip, making it suitable for various exercises, including yoga and pilates. This stability ball is easy to set up with a quick dual-action pump and is versatile for use in workouts or as a birthing ball. It’s praised for its durability, affordability, and available in many colors.

 

Best Backbend Yoga Prop #5: Hugger Mugger Standard Yoga Bolster

_Hugger Mugger Standard Yoga Bolster - Hugger Mugger

 

The Hugger Mugger bolster is ideal for various yoga practices, particularly yin and restorative yoga. Its flat surface provides stable support, making it perfect for poses requiring firmness. Bolsters like these are versatile and can replace stacks of blankets in some asanas. They’re praised for their comfort, durability, and available colors. With a carrying handle, they’re easy to transport and use.

 

Best Backbend Yoga Prop #6: YOGABODY Yoga Trapeze Pro

YOGABODY Yoga Trapeze Pro

The experience of trying a suspension yoga class for the first time was initially awkward, but it led to a feeling of openness and freedom by the end of the session. The sensation of hanging in a backbend without pressure on feet and hands was exhilarating, and transitioning between poses in mid-air was exciting. The yoga trapeze not only enhances yoga practice but also serves as a hammock for relaxation. The YOGABODY Yoga Trapeze Pro is recommended for its versatility, aiding in back pain relief, strength building, and flexibility enhancement. It’s easy to set up, sturdy, and comes with bonus tools and a carrying bag for convenience.