Improving flexibility is an important part of any fitness routine, and it’s easier than you think to incorporate into your daily life. Not only does increasing your range of motion help with injury prevention, but it also improves your overall quality of life. From reaching that top shelf a little easier to reducing those nagging aches and pains, a little flexibility work goes a long way.

So, where do you start? Here are five simple exercises that will have you bending and stretching with the best of them in no time.

Start your day with a forward fold. This simple yoga pose is a great full-body stretch, targeting the hamstrings, calves, and hips. Simply stand with your feet hip-width apart, fold forward, and reach for your shins, ankles, or feet. Hold for 30 seconds to a minute, and really feel that morning stiffness melt away.

Next, try a downward-facing dog. This classic yoga pose is an excellent way to stretch the shoulders, arms, and legs. Begin on all fours, then press back, lifting your hips towards the ceiling. Your body should resemble an inverted ‘V’. Hold this pose for a few breaths, feeling the stretch along your spine and the back of your legs.

The child’s pose is a restorative position that offers a deep hip and thigh stretch. From the previous pose, simply bring your toes together and knees wide, then sit back toward your heels, reaching your arms forward. It’s a wonderfully relaxing pose, perfect for unwinding after a long day.

For an easy spinal stretch, try a seated twist. Sit with your legs out in front of you, then cross your right leg over your left thigh, keeping your left leg straight out. Twist your torso to the right, placing your left hand on the floor behind you, and your right hand on your left knee. Hold and repeat on the other side.

Finally, a simple neck stretch can do wonders for easing tension and improving flexibility. Sit or stand tall, and gently tilt your head to one side, using your chin to touch your chest. Hold, then gently bring your head back up and tilt to the other side.

Incorporating these simple stretches into your routine will have you feeling looser and lighter in no time. Remember to listen to your body and ease into each stretch, and you’ll soon enjoy improved flexibility and a greater range of motion.

So, what are you waiting for? Get stretching!