When it comes to yoga, the wrists are one of the most vulnerable parts of the body. The pressure and rigor that asanas put on these delicate joints can easily lead to sprains, strains, or more serious injuries if proper precautions are not taken. One of the ways to keep your wrists safe during yoga is by using wrist supports. They come in a variety of styles and materials to suit every need and preference. Here’s a curated list of wrist supports for yoga that offer the perfect balance of comfort and safety.
1. WAGs (Wrist Assured Gloves):
The WAGs, designed by an occupational therapist, aims at reducing wrist pain and discomfort during yoga. These gloves come with a patented gel pad integrated into the palm area, reducing the strain on your wrists by distributing the weight evenly. WAGs are available in three styles – Pro, Ultra, and Flex – each offering varying levels of support, comfort, and flexibility. They also come in different sizes, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your hands.
2. Gaiam Yoga Wedge:
The Gaiam Yoga Wedge is a simple yet effective tool to protect your wrists. It works by reducing the angle of bend in the wrist, thus minimizing the strain. This wedge is made from a durable foam that is gentle on your joints, yet firm enough to offer the necessary support. You can use it under your hands in weight-bearing poses or under your heels while performing sitting poses.
3. Hugger Mugger Cork Yoga Wedge:
This eco-friendly option from Hugger Mugger provides sturdy and comfortable support. Made of sustainable cork that offers more grip and durability than foam, this wedge can be used under your hands or under your heels during yoga practice. It’s a fantastic solution for those practicing more demanding forms of yoga like Ashtanga or Vinyasa.
4. Spoonk Acupressure Eco Mat:
An innovative approach to wrist support, the Spoonk Acupressure Eco Mat stimulates acupressure points to enhance circulation and reduce wrist stiffness and pain. It’s easy to use – simply rest your wrists on the tiny spikes on the mat while carrying out the yoga poses. It’s not only relieving wrist discomfort but also increases your overall wellbeing by promoting relaxation and stress relief.
5. The Friendly Swede Adjustable Hand Grip Strengthener:
This ingenious device by The Friendly Swede works to strengthen the muscles in your hands and wrists, making you more resistant to injuries. The resistance level can be adjusted to suit your current strength and gradually increased as you get stronger. The handy size makes it possible to take your wrist workout anywhere, thus making it the perfect accessory for those who love to travel and engage in yoga.
6. BOB AND BRAD Yoga Wrist Support:
Manufactured using high quality, non-toxic silicone material, these wrist supports are great for those who want something easy to carry around. They provide relief from wrist pain by elevating the heels of hands and reducing the bend on wrists. You can make the most challenging poses safer and more comfortable without exerting excess pressure on your wrists.
7. YogaPaws SkinThin Non-Padded Yoga Gloves:
These gloves are super lightweight, compact, and offer fantastic external grip to ensure that your hands won’t slip on the mat. Along with these, it provides an additional internal grip that prevents the glove from sliding off your hand during an intense session. Also, the gloves have sweat-absorbent properties that keep your hands comfortable and dry.
Indeed, investing in the right wrist supports for yoga can help prevent injuries, reduce discomfort, and enhance your overall performance. However, it’s essential to maintain a proper form and warm up correctly before each yoga session – this is just as important, if not more so, than having the right gear. Therefore, integrating these wrist supports into your yoga routine and coupling it with correct technique should enable you to enjoy the journey towards achieving strength, flexibility, and inner peace that yoga promises. While choosing yoga wrist supports, consider usability, durability, material, and the level of support offered. It’s also advisable to consult your yoga instructor or a medical professional if you’re dealing with persistent wrist pain.
Remember, the journey of yoga is a personal one and should focus on wellness and tranquility over strain and discomfort. With these wrist supports, you’ll be one step closer to finding the right balance.
