StretchLab: Transform Your Wellness Journey with the Global Leader in Assisted Stretching

The fitness and wellness industry is no stranger to innovation, but few brands have revolutionized a niche segment quite like StretchLab, the global leader in assisted stretching. Under the exceptional leadership of Verdine Baker, StretchLab has experienced remarkable growth, achieving milestones 500 locations in just five years, defying industry odds and setting new standards in franchise success.

For a brand that caters to a diverse clientele and embraces holistic wellness, StretchLab’s journey exemplifies what’s possible when visionary leadership meets strategic execution. From building a robust franchise network to fostering inclusivity and empowering franchisees, Baker’s approach offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs, investors, and wellness enthusiasts alike.

A Vision of Holistic Wellness

StretchLab’s mission is simple: to help people move better and feel better through personalized one-on-one and group stretching sessions. At the heart of this mission is the proprietary Flexologist Training Program (FTP), accredited by the Institute for Credentialing Excellence (ICE). This rigorous training ensures StretchLab’s professionals, known as Flexologists, deliver consistent, high-quality care. Whether you're a professional athlete recovering from an injury or someone seeking relief from stiffness and pain, StretchLab’s customized sessions are designed to cater to everyone.

Unlike traditional fitness programs, StretchLab addresses a specific niche in the wellness industry: assisted stretching. With benefits such as improved range of motion, reduced risk of injury, enhanced athletic performance, and better posture, StretchLab appeals to individuals of all ages and activity levels.

The Rise of Verdine Baker in Fitness Franchising

Much of StretchLab’s success can be attributed to the visionary leadership of Verdine Baker, its President and CEO. Verdine Baker, a former professional soccer player with a career-long commitment to health and wellness, discovered the perfect intersection of his passions in franchising. 

Franchising offers a good balance between executing small business operations and corporate business while helping people and entrepreneurs.

Baker explains. 

His personal experience with sports injuries, including six knee surgeries, deepened his connection to StretchLab’s mission to improve mobility and flexibility for all. Under Baker’s guidance, StretchLab has maintained strong unit economics, a feat not easily achieved with rapid expansion. Baker’s approach emphasizes robust franchisee support, innovative business processes, and a commitment to inclusivity. As he puts it, 

StretchLab is a place for everyone.

Baker’s journey from National Sales Director to President and CEO of StretchLab showcases his talent for scaling operations while preserving the integrity of the brand. By emphasizing franchisee relations, operational excellence, and an innovative business model, Baker has positioned StretchLab as a leader in the wellness industry.

Achieving Growth Without Compromise

One of StretchLab’s most impressive accomplishments is its rapid expansion without sacrificing unit economics—a challenge for many fast-growing franchises. Baker attributes this success to a commitment to franchisee support, system optimization, and innovation.

Our team focuses on refining the systems and processes franchisees implement daily.

Baker explains. 

By continuously enhancing foundational practices, we’ve fueled growth without sacrificing performance.

The result? Numerous StretchLab locations exceeded $1 million in revenue in 2023, and membership growth continues to accelerate in 2024. This growth underscores StretchLab’s appeal as both a wellness destination and an investment opportunity.

A Commitment to Diversity in Leadership

As an African American executive, Baker is passionate about fostering diversity within the franchise sector. He emphasizes the importance of representation in leadership roles, creating pathways for others to succeed in business.

When I look at our franchisees, they’re made up of people of all ethnicities, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Says Baker. 

Franchising can create generational wealth, and that’s something I want more people in the African American community to see as a reality.

This commitment to diversity is evident in the makeup of StretchLab franchisees, who represent various ethnicities, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds. By fostering an inclusive culture, StretchLab ensures that its services—and business opportunities—are accessible to all.

Why Invest in StretchLab?

Ranked among Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500 and Inc. Magazine’s Inc. 5000, StretchLab has redefined assisted stretching for consumers of all ages and fitness levels. The brand’s innovative one-on-one and group stretching services are tailored to reduce injury risk, enhance mobility, and improve quality of life. Franchise owners benefit from:

• Low-Cost Entry: Initial investment ranges from $153,100 to $223,500, with a simple studio buildout and fast go-to-market advantage for first-time and experienced franchisees.

• Comprehensive Support: From real estate selection to operational training and ongoing marketing, StretchLab equips franchisees with the tools needed to succeed.

• Diverse Revenue Streams: In addition to membership fees, StretchLab generates income from group classes and specialized sessions, maximizing profitability.

By offering a simple, no-gimmick solution, StretchLab has built a loyal customer base. Their highly trained Flexologists are at the heart of the experience, delivering personalized care that keeps members coming back.

Why Choose StretchLab?

StretchLab’s success lies in its ability to combine innovation, inclusivity, and simplicity. Its evidence-based approach to wellness, paired with strong leadership and robust franchise support, creates a winning formula for both customers and investors. As the brand continues to expand globally, it remains committed to improving lives—one stretch at a time.

StretchLab’s journey proves that wellness, diversity, and business success can coexist beautifully. With its proven business model, dedicated support, and commitment to inclusivity, StretchLab stands as a beacon of success in the wellness space. Join StretchLab today and experience the future of wellness.

Ready to Stretch into Success?

StretchLab offers a unique opportunity to make a difference. Explore their offerings today and become part of a brand that’s revolutionizing the way people move and feel.