Meet Daniel Ripa, the general manager at Stretch Zone Legacy.

Tell us a little about your business. – Stretch Zone offers a simple, natural solution to your flexibility problems. Restricted range of motion can create many different, preventable problems. At Stretch Zone, movement is the medicine. Our Stretchers know exactly what you need in order to get you moving pain free once again.

How did you get started in the business? – After over a decade of private personal training, I found that what my clients loved most about the workouts was the assisted stretching at the end. Exercise, in my opinion, is as much about tuning up as it is toning up. Exercise should prepare your body for its daily challenges. Our stretch is
the easiest exercise you can get. We do all the work while you kick back and enjoy all the benefits.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – COVID had a large impact on both the health and the fitness industry. It also forced people to place a greater concern in their overall health and well being. As a professional personal trainer, I knew I had to find a way to help people in the ways they needed most. Getting people moving again! Stretch Zone was the perfect solution for me. It has introduced me to so many people in need of our help. It brings me joy to see just how much positive change we create for those we work with.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Opening an instant success business in my hometown is my proudest accomplishment so far. In our first nine months of business in Omaha, we have consistently topped national charts. Our simple yet effective stretch is a huge hit. I am proud to lead the team as we deliver a customer experience that becomes the highlight of their week.

Tell us about your family. – I am the proud father of three boys ages 3, 7, and 9 years old. I enjoy doing household chores with them, coaching and playing sports, and teaching them about healthy lifestyle choices like exercise, eating right, and doing well in school. I believe being a father is a huge responsibility in a time where we lack strong male role models.

What is the most unique thing about you? – I competed in and won the Nebraska State Championship Men’s Classic Physique for two consecutive years. I believe I found a new hobby, and a way to promote my theories and practices that have helped people with their own fitness journeys.

Who inspires you? – I’m inspired by my grandfather Ted Bolamperti. He put himself through Creighton Dental School, ran a multiple-location dental practice in Omaha for over 50 years. He has dedicated his life to serving his family and community, as well as preserving and sharing the American-Italian Heritage Society and social club founded by himself, family, and friends over 40 years ago.

What is your best piece of advice? – Begin with the end in mind. Having a clear vision and purpose allows you to spend your time and energy on tasks that are productive, or at least not counterproductive to your success.

What is your favorite book?Be Obessed or Be Average by Grant Cardone. It encourages you to spend your time and energy on tasks that align with your goals and personal purpose.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?www.flexstudiofitness.com; dan.szomaha@gmail.com; (402) 807-5397.