Before you practice
A few minutes now, so nothing goes wrong later.
We've practiced with the ONE for years and taught with it in front of students. Here's everything we tell them, read it once before your first session and you'll know the kit for life.
Never put body weight on the block face with the snap flap.
Each block has one face that carries the securing snap flap, the side that opens to hold the mat. That face is built to close and seal, not to carry you. Standing, kneeling, or pressing your weight through it can damage the block and drop you mid-pose. Simply rotate the block so a plain face bears the load. Every other face takes full body weight exactly like a solid studio block, we use them that way ourselves, every day.
Do's
Warm up gently
Take 5 to 10 minutes to ease into light movement before using the blocks or strap in deeper stretches.
Place blocks on a stable, non-slip surface
Use your mat or another grippy surface beneath the blocks to prevent sliding during poses.
Check the strap buckle before each use
Confirm the buckle is fully engaged and the strap loop is the right length for your pose before applying tension.
Load the blocks through their flat faces
The 4", 6" and 9" faces without the snap flap take full body weight. Check the snap flap is fully closed and flush before putting weight on a block.
Listen to your body
Use props at the height and position that allows you to hold a pose comfortably, never force a stretch.
Store blocks flat on a stable surface
When not in use, lay blocks flat rather than stacking them at angles to preserve their shape and prevent tipping. Let a damp mat dry fully before folding it back inside.
Keep your practice space clear
Remove any objects within arm's reach before starting, a clutter-free zone reduces the risk of losing balance or knocking something over.
Hydrate before and after practice
Drink water before your session and rehydrate afterward, especially during longer or more intensive practices.
Don'ts
Don't apply weight to the side with the securing flap
Never rest body weight on or press down onto the face of the block that has the securing snap flap, this can compromise the block's integrity and cause instability during your practice.
Don't over-tighten the strap
The strap should provide gentle assistance, not restrict circulation. If you feel numbness, loosen it immediately, and never use it around the neck.
Don't practice on a wet mat
Allow your mat to dry completely after cleaning before use to avoid slipping.
Don't ignore pain
Discomfort and pain are different. If a pose causes sharp or shooting pain, come out of it immediately.
Don't use the strap as a resistance band
The strap is designed for passive stretching and alignment assistance, not dynamic pulling or resistance training.
Don't practice immediately after eating
Wait at least 1 to 2 hours after a full meal before your session to avoid discomfort during twists and forward folds.
Don't leave blocks where they can be tripped over
After use, store your blocks away from walkways and high-traffic areas to prevent accidental falls.
Don't stack or balance on soft surfaces
Never stack the blocks and stand on them, and don't load a block on soft or uneven ground such as carpet, grass or a bed.
A note on your body
Yoga asks things of joints, and props change how load travels through them. If you're pregnant, recovering from an injury, or managing a condition affecting your bones, joints or balance, talk to your doctor before starting. In practice: come out of anything sharp, don't hold a shape you can't breathe in, and let the block do the reaching for you. The beginner videos in the library are the safest place to start.
Start with a beginner lesson