StretchLab Hudson offers revolutionary techniques to help enhance flexibility and strength, so you can perform your best

By Mary Malik

It’s that time of year when everyone is itching to get back outside and enjoy those rounds of golf, long walks and bike rides. But no matter what you’ll be doing when you get back out there, you’re going to need to stretch first. And even better, get stretched.

For the last three years, StretchLab in Hudson has been making clients more mobile, flexible, less fatigued and simply feel better prepared for all their activities.

StretchLab offers one-on-one, assisted stretching with a trained Flexologist who focuses on clients’ individual problem areas and fitness goals, so they’ll perform better at everything they do.

“Stretching keeps muscles healthy and flexible, improves balance and lessens joint pain,” Jenna Head, area manager for StretchLab Hudson, says. “This results in increased range of motion and many other benefits that allow us to perform better in our daily lives.”

We’re all born with supple, flexible bones and muscles, but that begins to change around age 10. Bones harden and muscle tissue starts to lose flexibility as we age, and we’re all familiar with the results. Stretching helps us keep that flexibility. But not all stretching is the same, or even safe. Guidance from an expert is what you’ll get at StretchLab.

“Before you arrive for your first stretch session, a Flexologist will reach out to you about your goals, lifestyle, past injuries and other helpful information,” General Manager Kim Newhouse says. “Our Flexologists are trained experts with a background in fitness that may include bachelor’s and master’s degrees in a related field, along with a range of certifications in yoga, personal training and more. In addition to their fitness experience, Flexologists complete an extensive, three-tiered certification process that makes them uniquely qualified to guide you through our series of 26 stretches and determine what is appropriate for your needs and fitness level.”

Flexologists receive online training, take part in in-person workshops and complete 20-plus practice hours administering StretchLab’s stretches. In addition, they take part in continuing education that trains them even further, allowing them to customize and fine-tune stretch sessions for each client.

“Your first stretch begins with a simple MAPS assessment, determining mobility, activation, posture and symmetry while providing us with information we need to ensure you get the most out of your session,” Kim says. “We recommend a 50-minute, 26-stretch initial session that targets every muscle group. Future sessions are personalized to really target on your specific needs.”

Whether you’re looking to gain flexibility in your golf swing, increase your mobility to shine on the pickleball court, or get stronger for everything else you’re doing, StretchLab will get you there.

“We work with a lot of golfers and athletes of all ages,” Jenna says. “There are a lot of gadgets and products out there that promise longer drives, better rotation and increased stamina on the golf course, but nothing will work better for you than your own body when it’s properly stretched and flexible. You won’t fatigue as quickly.”

StretchLab owner Bill Shepard, an athlete himself, retired military and an avid golfer, has learned the value of stretching to maintain his own fitness level. He knew when researching a franchise opportunity StretchLab was the perfect fit.

“I wanted something I believed in that supported the wellness concept,” Bill says. “StretchLab helps people of all ages stay active and fit, no matter what they do in life. Stretching just makes good sense for everyone.”

In fact, all StretchLab owners and general managers recently attended a summit that focused on specialized stretching for specific activities like cycling, running, golf and more.

“We’re always improving to help clients get the most out of a stretch here and then educate you so you can continue stretching at home,” Kim says. “StretchLab members have access to our app, which offers additional stretches and information on how to build on the progress you make here.”

Stretch sessions at StretchLab may also include massage therapies to aid with recovery and muscle tension relief. Members receive one free Normatec compression therapy session per month.

Membership options vary and StretchLab accepts HSA corporate discount programs, Gympass, Renew Active and other health and wellness benefit programs.

“Our muscles need to be cared for and we can’t do it alone,” Jenna says. “At StretchLab, we’ll assess your needs, track your progress and prepare you for your active, pain-free, flexible life.”

StretchLab Hudson is located at 103 First Street in Hudson. To schedule your initial stretch and for more information call 234-602-2600, check the website StretchLab.com or email hudson@stretchlab.com.