January 31, 2012 – On December 8, Belmont Heights received a new space to stretch and strengthen with the opening of VeroPilates at 3938 E. 4th St. After practicing the Pilates method of exercise during her recovery from chronic lower back pain, owner Veronica Colwell (pictured, right, with client Atourina Barkho) became inspired to open a studio where she could convey the health benefits she had experienced to others. Named after Colwell’s nickname “Vero,” which also means “authentic” or “real” in Italian, VeroPilates offers its clients classes in a private or semi-private setting. By working with no more than two clients at a time, the sessions are personalized and individually tailored to an individual’s fitness goals as well as their physical ability. According to the studio’s Web site, Colwell’s goal as an instructor is to “transmit well-being to each of [her] students and help them find their personal path to a healthier and happier condition” through Pilates. For more information about VeroPilates or to schedule a free introductory class, visit www.vero-pilates.com or call 562/477-9650. (Photograph by the Business Journal’s Thomas McConville)