Welcome to StretchLab Valencia

With over 5 years of experience as a Pilates Instructor and Flexologist, and 4 years as a Master Trainer at StretchLab, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every session. I’m also a 500-Hour Certified Yoga Teacher, blending deep mind-body practices with dynamic movement. My background includes a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies/Education, giving me a strong foundation in teaching and helping others grow. Outside the studio, I enjoy hiking, dancing, and spending time with my dogs—activities that keep me grounded and energized. Whether you're looking to improve flexibility, strength, or overall wellness, I’m here to guide you on your journey!

I have been in the training industry since 2004 and I am a nationally recognized Certified Personal Trainer by the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). I can be found cycling, trail running and donating in my free time as well as cleaning and maintaining local trails in my community. As a Flexologist, I can continue to help motivate, inspire and coach individuals to reach their goals of becoming healthier and more flexible.

I enjoy working with our clients all ages and levels to create an individualized program to improve their quality of life. Flexibility is the foundation in recovery, rehabilitation, and injury prevention. Creating Wellness Together! Working at StretchLab compliments what I do as a Certified Neuromuscular Massage Therapist, Certified Peter Hess Sound Massage Practitioner, and Health Educator. In my off time I enjoy spending time with my family, kayaking, camping, walks along the beach, and spending time outdoors.

Janai is a NASM-certified personal trainer and Flexologist at StretchLab Valencia, as well as the owner of a private personal training studio. A graduate of the California Institute of the Arts and the National Personal Trainer Institute, she is passionate about creating meaningful connections and helping others achieve their health and wellness goals. As a mother of two, she values a career that has a positive impact on people's lives. Outside of work, she enjoys gardening, cooking, and spending time with her dogs. Though not fluent, she also speaks a bit of German.

As a former collegiate soccer player at Cal State LA, I bring the discipline and dedication of an athlete to my fitness training. My passion for exercise extends beyond the gym, as staying active is simply part of who I am. When I’m not training or working out, you’ll find me indulging my creative side through drawing and coloring—my favorite way to unwind. And if I had to choose two foods to enjoy forever, it’d be pizza and ice cream. Because who says you can’t balance fitness with a little fun?

Certified through the National Federation of Personal Trainers (NFPT), I specialize in strength and conditioning and now bring that expertise to helping clients at StretchLab move better, feel stronger, and perform at their best. Once the underdog, I transformed myself through discipline and learning, and I’m passionate about helping others push past limitations, improve mobility, prevent injury, and build confidence in their bodies. I’ve worked with seasoned athletes, high school competitors, and kids, and I tailor my approach to meet each person where they are. Outside the studio, I compete in boxing and DJ events—because progress should be both challenging and fun!

My name is Melissa, and I am currently a third-year Kinesiology major. I hold a pathway certificate in Sports Medicine and a certification on Therapeutic Modalities. My academic journey began at Valencia’s Medical Science Academy, where I developed a strong foundation in health science throughout high school. In my free time, I enjoy attending concerts, drinking coffee, and exploring new places.

With 25 years of experience in exercise science, nutrition, and integrated health, Erika Hawthorne specializes in weight loss, mindfulness, and personalized wellness coaching. She partners with clients to create tailored programs that support long-term health, balance, and vitality. Her background spans leadership roles across the spa, fitness, and wellness industries, including operations, program development, and team training. Erika has designed fitness and nutrition programs, led meditation and awareness sessions, and developed holistic wellness experiences, all focused on helping people live healthier, more empowered lives.

Certified Personal Trainer (NASM) with a master’s in Sports Science and Rehabilitation, Rick specializes in Clinical Exercise Physiology and supports clients with health concerns such as aging, Parkinson’s, stroke, cancer, and cardiovascular conditions. An active Ironman triathlete and avid golfer, Rick brings his passion for fitness and well-being to every client session.

Born and raised in Santa Clarita, CA, Nathan earned his B.S. in Kinesiology from CSU San Marcos. His passion for body care began with his love for basketball and seeing the difference it made for NBA players. Known for his expertise in customized stretching, Nathan is a sought-after Flexologist who loves spending days off at Disneyland. Inspired by Drake’s journey, he’s dedicated to building his own success—go Lakers!

A lifelong fitness enthusiast and former athlete, Charles has always been passionate about movement and the body’s potential. His curiosity about how flexibility and stretching can enhance performance and prevent injuries led him to pursue a degree in Kinesiology from CSU Fullerton, where he specialized in biomechanics and sports medicine. After graduating, Charles gained hands-on experience with sports teams and rehabilitation centers, deepening his skills in stretching techniques and injury prevention. With certifications in advanced stretching and therapeutic bodywork, he’s dedicated to helping clients achieve peak performance, resilience, and overall wellness.

With a lifelong background in athletics, I’ve competed in sports like gymnastics, volleyball, and tennis, which fueled my passion for fitness and movement. I’m currently completing my B.S. in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise Science at CSUN, graduating in Spring '25. As a NASM-certified personal trainer and Barre fitness instructor, I’m dedicated to promoting mind and body wellness. Outside of the studio, I enjoy hiking, yoga, spending time with friends, and relaxing at home with a good crime show. I’m excited to share my love for health and fitness with our community!

Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, Desiree relocated to California in 2020 and began her yoga journey in 2002, practicing alongside her mother. After moving to Texas in 2005, she immersed herself in daily practice and, inspired by the physical and mental transformation, completed her 500-hour teacher training in 2008. She has since accumulated over 1,000 hours of training and taught more than 8,000 classes. In 2017, Desiree developed a Yoga Teacher Training curriculum and began training future instructors. She is deeply drawn to the energetic body and the chakra system, exploring how past experiences shape patterns and habits. Passionate about sharing this knowledge, she brings both depth and heart to her teaching.

Kaiya is deeply passionate about helping people feel better in their bodies through the power of movement and stretching. With a background as a Physical Therapist Aide and a degree in Kinesiology from California State University, Northridge (CSUN), she specializes in Pilates-based rehabilitation. Her foundation in dance gives her a unique appreciation for how the body moves, and she loves using that knowledge to guide clients toward greater mobility, strength, and body awareness. Whether someone is recovering from injury or simply looking to move more freely, Kaiya is committed to supporting each individual’s journey to improved wellness, one stretch at a time.

Raphael is a senior at Cal State University Northridge majoring in Kinesiology and plans to continue his education in physical therapy. A former collegiate basketball player and physical therapy aide, he understands firsthand the importance of recovery and self-care. He enjoys working with clients of all ages, helping them feel their best, and brings a strong passion for health, fitness, and self-improvement. Outside the studio, Raphael loves the gym, spending time with his husky, and being with family.

I'm Alan, and I am a CSUN graduate with a degree in kinesiology and exercise science. I’m passionate about how the body moves and love helping people improve their mobility and overall wellness. Outside the studio, I stay active through hiking, gym training, and boxing, which I’ve enjoyed for the past three years. I look forward to helping you move and feel your best!