Older adults, in particular, need to remember to drink plenty of water when doing exercise. It’s a good idea to drink plenty of water after doing simple workouts such as daily oblique exercises. As we age, the ability of our cells to retain water declines, In addition, our thirst mechanism becomes less sensitive. Not only do we retain water less efficiently, but we also don’t feel the need to drink as much. Since dehydration can affect flexibility, it’s another important reason to remember to always drink eight to ten cups of fluids a day.
Women who are pregnant or who are in the post-partum phase after delivery should also exercise care with stretching. When a woman is pregnant, her body releases a hormone called relaxin into the bloodstream. This hormone facilitates lengthening of ligaments in the pelvis to accommodate the needs of the growing fetus, as well as to assist in childbirth.