Tom Dessereau

About Tom

Meet Tom Originally from the Bronx, New York, Tom Dessereau spent the first part of his career working in economic development and government affairs for the City of New York after earning a B.A. in Political Science and Economics. His journey into Pilates began unexpectedly—after a back injury interrupted his marathon training, a chiropractor introduced him to Pilates as part of his recovery. The results were life-changing, and as Tom says, “Pilates is the only reason I can still run.” Tom became certified by Power Pilates in 1998 after studying under the legendary Romana Kryzanowska, one of Joseph Pilates’ original protégés. He began teaching full time shortly after and has been sharing his passion for movement ever since. In 2010, Tom relocated to Asheville, North Carolina, where he continues to inspire others through his teaching. Tom specializes in Classical Pilates and the art of movement flow. He especially enjoys working with older clients who are discovering—or rediscovering—the joy of movement. His classes balance precision and playfulness, always infused with humor to remind students that fitness should be fun. He loves seeing clients surprise themselves with their progress and often hears, “Wow, I couldn’t do that a few weeks ago!” At Club Pilates, Tom values the teamwork and camaraderie among the staff and instructors, as well as the diversity of teaching styles that keep the environment fresh and full of learning opportunities. One of his most memorable teaching moments was when an 80-year-old client told him that Pilates was the reason he could still hike and move comfortably—while many of his peers struggled with mobility. Moments like that, Tom says, are what make teaching so rewarding. Outside the studio, Tom enjoys running and hiking around Asheville, spending time with his wife and daughter, volunteering at a local community garden, and exploring his love for cooking and good wine. His motto: “Keep moving, stay curious, and never stop learning.”

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