The science of assisted stretch

Are you ready, Strongsville? It’s time to stretch. Or get stretched, that is, by your personal, professional Flexologist at the new StretchLab in Strongsville. You may have seen one or heard about them popping up around the country, and how devoted, newly limber members are enjoying the benefits of this personalized stretching program. Now, it’s your turn. 

“We’ve already been introducing StretchLab to the Strongsville community through pop-ups and partnerships with local businesses,” Owner Jeanne Fuelling says. “We love showing people how StretchLab can benefit everything they’re doing and how it can improve their lives. It all starts with a StretchLab stretch.”

At StretchLab, your trained Flexologist uses a stretching technique called proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) that uses resistance to target your body’s tissues and ligaments and improve muscle elasticity. 

All Flexologists have a fitness and/or health background before beginning a three-tiered certification process that includes 60-plus hours of in-person workshops and 20-plus hours of hands-on training administering the 26 StretchLab stretches. 

“I thought I knew about stretching after earning a degree in exercise science and completing 200 hours of yoga instruction,” Flexologist Chelsey Cox says. “Then I trained to be a Flexologist. PNF stretching is the contracting and releasing of muscles all while breathing properly through the stretch. One client with back pain said, ‘today gave me hope,’” Chelsey says. “This reaction lets me know I’m doing the right thing.”

Before you arrive for your first stretch session, a representative will reach out to you about your goals, lifestyle, past injuries and other information. Your initial stretch begins with a MAPS assessment determining mobility, activation, posture and symmetry so the Flexologist focuses on the correct muscle groups.

“The MAPS test shows us joint weaknesses, tightness, posture symmetry and how your muscles activate when you move,” Chelsey says. “Repeating the test monthly tracks your progress but the real proof is in the way you feel.” 

At StretchLab, it’s not a one-size-fits-all stretch.

“We customize each stretch based on your needs,” Area Manager Mo Masoud says. “We’ll work muscles you’ve never stretched to increase your range of motion, flexibility and maximize performance for athletes of every age to grandparents who want to remain active with the kids. Everyone benefits from a StretchLab stretch.”

General Manager Heather Czarnitzki came to StretchLab from the beauty and fashion industry. 

“I was drawn to the professional atmosphere and the level of training for Flexologists and their continuing education,” Heather says. “We’re for everyone of every age, size and fitness level. This isn’t about your physical appearance; it’s about your functionality in life and overall wellness.”

StretchLab also offers the latest activewear and recovery items like massage guns and stretch straps often used on clients. 

With a personal training background working for the Chicago Cubs organization, Flexologist Will Poskocil has a passion for working with young people and helping them understand the importance of stretching to avoid injury and perform at the highest level. 

“I spend a lot of time preparing for my clients and planning out the stretch to address their needs,” Will says. “With kids it’s more about prevention and with older clients, flexibility is the goal, especially for golf, racket sports, running and walking.”

Strongsville Flexologists invite you to call, stop in, get stretched and experience the difference an assisted stretch can make. 

StretchLab Strongsville is located at 17100 Royalton Road, Suite 8, in Strongsville. For membership, business partnership and events information, call Heather at 440-709-1534, email strongsville@stretchlab.com, and check the website StretchLab.com for information on this location’s Grand Opening celebration in early May 2025.