When it came time to decide where to expand into a second location, only three years since launching its original site in Glendale, Bodytone Studio banked on an appreciation for community within Toluca Lake.
“There is a genuine sense of connection here that makes Toluca Lake feel special,” instructor Selina Verastigui says. “People genuinely support one another here, and there is a wonderful neighborhood feel that can be hard to find in Los Angeles.” Verastigui has worked at Bodytone Studio since it first opened its doors.
Although the Toluca Lake location has only been open for business since January, it didn’t take long for staff to feel welcomed and embraced by residents, other small businesses on Riverside Drive and, of course, clients.
“We have enjoyed getting to know business owners, participating in community events, collaborating with local businesses and becoming part of the neighborhood fabric,” Verastigui notes.
Supporting and helping others grow and reach new goals is at the core of Bodytone Studio, which specializes in XFormer Pilates and heated mat workouts.
“Bodytone is more than just a place to work out — it’s a place where people build confidence, strength and lasting relationships,” Verastigui says. “We strive to create a space where people feel welcome, comfortable and inspired.”
As with the original location, Bodytone Studio Toluca Lake offers multiple classes Monday through Sunday. XFormer Pilates utilizes a resistance machine designed to build strength and improve balance through slow, controlled movements. Instructors develop routines that focus on low-impact, high-intensity movements to address various levels of skill and experience.
In the second room, clients engage in heated mat classes that combine Pilates principles with a warm environment meant to elevate workouts, increase mobility and intensify muscle engagement.
Verastigui says incorporating both services within one studio serves as more than mere convenience.
“This allows clients to vary their workouts, challenge their bodies in different ways and create a balanced fitness routine that keeps them motivated and progressing toward their goals,” she explains.
Seeing people reach those goals is one of the most fulfilling payoffs for instructors.
“We love watching people walk through our doors for the first time feeling nervous and then become part of our studio family. Seeing friendships form, goals achieved and lives changed through movement is what inspires us every day,” Verastigui says.
She adds that since the opening of the Toluca Lake location, she and her co-workers have been inspired by nearby businesses.
“We’ve enjoyed getting to know many of our neighbors, including Sweetsalt, Gelson’s, Cocoa + Cream and BrowZing LA. Each business brings something unique to the area, and we’re grateful to be surrounded by such passionate local entrepreneurs,” Verastigui says. “We look forward to continuing to explore the neighborhood and building relationships with even more local businesses and residents.”