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.

Certified through the National Federation of Personal Trainers (NFPT), I specialize in strength and conditioning training designed to help athletes of all levels unlock their full potential. Growing up, I was the underdog—small, slow, and weak on the track—but I refused to let that define me. Through relentless dedication and a passion for learning, I transformed myself into the strong, fast, and powerful athlete I am today. With years of experience training seasoned athletes, high school competitors, and even kids, I’ve helped individuals push beyond their limits to become the strongest versions of themselves. My personal journey fuels my passion to inspire others to pursue greatness in their own athletic paths. Outside of training, I compete in boxing matches and recently began DJing at events—because life should be as fun as it is challenging!

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, physiology, nutrition, and integrated health, Erika Hawthorne is dedicated to helping clients live healthier, more vibrant lives. Specializing in weight loss, mindfulness, and personalized wellness coaching, she collaborates closely with clients to craft customized approaches that enhance well-being, promote longevity, and support a balanced lifestyle. Erika’s extensive background spans the spa, fitness, and wellness industries, where she has led teams of fitness instructors, wellness practitioners, acupuncturists, medi-spa physicians, estheticians, and spa therapists. Her roles have included Operations Director, Business Operations Taskforce, and Business Development & Design, where she has crafted spa menus, developed fitness programs, and led operational training initiatives. In addition, Erika has designed and implemented fitness programs, guided meditation and awareness sessions, developed nutritional programs, and hosted instructional cooking sessions. Her passion for wellness is matched by her commitment to empowering others to achieve their health and lifestyle goals.

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!

I was born and raised in the pacific northwest and relocated to California in 2020. I began my yoga practice in 2002, taking classes with my mom. In 2005 l moved to Texas and dove deeper into yoga. I fell in love with how yoga made me feel, both physically and mentally. After practicing yoga daily for 2 years I decided to become a yoga teacher. I completed a 500-hour teacher training program in 2008 and began teaching full time. I have over 1000 hours of training and have taught over 8000 classes to date. In 2017 I created a Yoga Teaching Teacher Curriculum and began training others to teach yoga as well, I have always been drawn to the energetic body and how our past creates our habits and patterns on an energetic level. Over the past 5 years I have been diving deeper in the chakra system and I have learned so much eye-opening information. With all thing's yoga, I feel drawn to share what I have learned. Recognizing the benefits of yoga she introduced yoga to her children, both her son and daughter have been doing yoga since they were born. She loves to help her students become the best version of themselves and see them progress in their practice. She teaches a variety of class styles including power vinyasa, hatha/bikram, slow flow, kids yoga, yin and private lessons. Desiree' s classes are playful and challenging, you will leave feeling happier, healthier and stronger.

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.