“I’d absolutely recommend for everyone to get a yoga belt or strap,” says Keri. “Yoga straps will increase range of motion as well as support with alignment and form, which can help you get into more challenging poses.”

Straps can be used to move deeper into a stretch or to reach for body parts you wouldn’t normally be able to. For example, Strong Women editor Meriam Ahari uses her strap to intensify her hamstring stretches. While lying on the floor, she suggests wrapping the strap around the sole of one foot, then extending the same leg straight towards the ceiling. Flex the foot and pull the strap towards your chest to bring the straight leg closer towards your torso. Meriam then stretches her arm on the ground to the side of her body to open the leg and hips wide.

“If you don’t have a strap, a dressing gown belt or resistance band will also do the trick,” says Keri.

Shop Yogikuti Cotton Yoga Belt, £20.34

Stretching: how to use yoga equipment to enhance your flexibility