You need these 5 tools for the deepest stretch of your life

Whether you’re simply ready to work on your flexibility or you’re looking to advance your current yoga routine, a little stretching can go a long way. Not only can it prevent muscle tears and other injuries, note the health experts at Harvard, but it can improve muscle health, joint strength, and range of motion over time.

There are plenty of stretches you can try from just about anywhere, which is great for basic flexibility training, but you can also up your game with a few helpful tools. They aren’t expensive or difficult to use, and you can bring them with you for every workout. Ready for the deepest stretch of your life?

Maximo Fitness Exercise Mat 72 x 24 x 0.5

Every flexibility aficionado needs a trusty gym mat for stretching, yoga, and the like. This versatile mat from Maximo Fitness gives you half an inch of cushion to keep you moisture-free and off of any uncomfortable gym floors. At the end of your workout, you can roll up and carry your mat home thanks to its included carrying strap—so convenient!

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Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Towel 24x48

You never know when a challenging stretch may make you break a sweat, so it’s best to be prepared. Wise Owl Outfitters Yoga Towels are the perfect workout accessory thanks to their moisture-wicking properties and easy-to-spot color. They come in sets of four, too, so you can enjoy a few workouts before laundry day.

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Nextrino Loop Resistance Bands

Besides the basic postures we all know and love, resistance bands are a great way to get a good stretch. By incorporating these lightweight, easy-to-carry bands into your normal routines, you’ll build extra strength and flexibility in any major muscle area. This set of 5 bands includes 5 different resistance levels, so your training will truly make a difference.

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Grip Socks Yoga Pilates Barre 4 Pairs

Whether you’re doing some simple post-workout stretching or you’re taking on a whole fitness class (think yoga, barre, or pilates), these socks will keep you from slipping on slick gym floors. You can choose from several different styles of socks, from pointe slipper look-alike to a classic crew fit. With a padded heel and cotton blend fabric, you may even want to wear these around the house!

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Muscle Roller Massage Stick

Relax your muscles after a good stretch with URBNFit’s Muscle Roller Massage Stick. This easy-to-hold tool lets you work the tension out of any muscle that needs it using 6 separate rollers along a reinforced steel core. Simply hold it like a rolling pin and run it along any tense or sore area on your body. Reducing tension, stiffness, and pain—what’s not to love?

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Flexibility doesn’t come from tools or equipment—but these assets sure do help! Even basic tools like nonslip mats and grip socks will keep you limber and safe during your workout, so what are you waiting for? Unsafe stretching can become a problem faster than you’d think, so you should learn the proper technique—with the proper equipment—as soon as you can.

Whether you start with one solid investment or are ready to dive into all 5, you’re sure to elevate your stretching routine with any of these helpful items. Combine these tools with some dedicated practice and healthy choices, and you’ll be doing the splits, or at least touching your toes, before you know it.