New Stretch Lab offers flexibility training to clients in South Elgin

SOUTH ELGIN – True to its name, Stretch Lab sticks with what it does best.

Stretching – and nothing more.

“We’re not doing [physical therapy] treatment activities,” Thornwood Stretch Lab franchise owner Brenda Saban said. “I’m not going to take you through your course of treatment you need for your mobility and keeping your limbs going.”

“I’m not going to be doing any of that. I’m just doing the assisted stretch part of it,” Saban continued.

Stretch Lab, at 463 Redington Drive in South Elgin, is the latest Stretch Lab franchise to pop up in the Chicagoland suburbs, joining other franchises in Naperville, Park Ridge, Willowbrook and more.

Customizable stretching sessions – for whatever part of the body a client needs it for – span either 25 minutes or 50 minutes.

Clients are paired with “Flexologists,” who, in addition to earning a college degree or certification, have also undergone a rigorous training and education program – The Flexologist Training Program – further understanding muscles, how they function, how to properly and safely stretch them and more.

Clients simply dictate what part of the body needs stretching, and the Flexologist will conduct relevant stretches – with re-affirming client feedback on pain tolerance and related aspects.

Jane Pombar, a St. Charles resident and Stretch Lab client for one month, says attending the Lab and stretching is “just another way of taking care; it’s just as important as going to the gym, running or anything else.”

Pombar is finding success with her stretching and attendance at the Lab.

“[Success], to me, it’s getting mobility back,” Pombar said.

Currently, group sessions are not being conducted due to COVID-19 restrictions. Individual sessions are currently by-appointment only. However, interested prospective clients can sign-up for sessions by calling (630)-338-9920 or email them at Thornwood@stretchlab.com.

Clients can sign-up for monthly memberships of four, eight or 12 sessions per month. An unlimited group stretch option is also available. Session attendees will get their temperatures taken upon entering and must wear facial protective masks.

“[Stretch Lab] is just that missing piece to help you stretch,” Saban said. “...it’s not a workout like you would think a workout, but your body does feel a little something when you’re done because it’s getting moved around and being asked to do something new.”

“Hopefully, we will give you a new habit that’s a good habit that you’ll be able to keep going on and on in-between sessions,” Saban said.