Strong Together.
Rooted in Community.
Come Grow with Us.
We empower our community with real world self defense skills, physical fitness, and the personal skills needed to create amazing lives. Join our family.
Learn Real Self Defense
Get In Amazing Shape
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PROGRAMS
Martial Arts For All Ages
About Our School
Since 2000, we have helped thousands of students in Asheville become the best version of themselves. We are family owned and operated, and would like to invite you to join our martial arts family.
We teach people to be: Strong of mind, body, and spirit. Rooted in purpose, belief, and connection. Growing in confidence, self esteem, and contribution.
Our one of a kind martial arts programs are designed to give our students the skills to create amazing lives for themselves. We teach real world Krav Maga self defense skills at age appropriate levels, fitness kickboxing, and we have an authentic Tai Chi class.
Let's get to work on your journey of personal growth!
Meet
Derek Croley
Master Croley is a highly experienced 9th degree black belt with over 40 years of martial arts expertise. He has Black Belts in over 10 different styles and has lived and trained in China and trained in Israel.
He is a former national instructor trainer and testing board member for a major martial arts organization, has judged numerous kickboxing events, and is a certified Krav Maga Weapons Instructor, police tactics trainer, and CQC Instructor. Croley is also a Vice President and Head Instructor in WACIMA (Worldwide Association for Chinese Internal Martial Arts).
Having taught thousands of students in Asheville since 2000, he is thrilled to help your family.
Meet
Evelyn Croley
Instructor Croley grew up on the mat, beginning her training at the age of 3.
She has Black Belts in Krav Maga, Superfoot kickboxing, US TAI Martial Arts, and is a 2nd degree Black Belt in White Oak Systems. She is also a nationally certified Martial Arts Instructor, a nationally certified woman's self defense instructor, child safety instructor, as well as Krav Maga CQC Core Instructor.
As our Head Instructor, she has a passion for helping people become the best version of themselves through martial arts.
REVIEWS
Hear What Families Have To Say About Us
White Oak Martial Arts has made a profound positive impact on the lives of my son and I. We have been practicing there for 3.5 years and have earned our 1st degree black belts. During this time we have gained in skill, strength, confidence, and humility. Master Croley and his team of instructors are world-class in knowledge, skill, and heart.
- Diane
Both of my kids went here for years! Master Croley is a fantastic teacher. My kids are 16 and 20 now and they gained self discipline, confidence, strength resilience and empathy from their years spent in this class. Cannot recommend them highly enough! Thank you!
- Mandie
All the most effective real-world fighting techniques and scenarios taught by the absolute expert Master Derek Croley. With his wealth of experience and background information, every class is an adventure. I have loved my journey at White Oak. Thank you Master Croley and Staff.
- Stefan
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FAQ
Got Questions? We Have Answers
What are the benefits of martial arts for my child?
Martial arts lessons are an excellent activity for people of all ages and physical abilities. The classes delivered by our professional instructors are one of the best ways for your kids to:
· Get active and boost fitness to be happy with their bodies.
· Relieve stress.
· Become part of a community and make friends.
· Grow their confidence to have the courage to become the best version of themselves.
· Learn age appropriate, real self-defense and de-escalation skills.
· Have fun in a caring, vibrant setting.
What Do I Need To Bring For My First Class?
Comfortable sports attire that doesn’t hinder mobility, a bottle of water to stay hydrated throughout the lesson, and your natural personality are all that’s required for the first class. We’ll do the rest!
I'm not a fan of gym workouts. Will martial arts be the same?
Martial arts training is very different to regular workouts you’ll do in the standard gym. At our martial arts school, we plan out our classes to ensure you burn off those extra calories, relieve some stress and have fun while you’re at it!You’re constantly developing new skills and mastering a range of self-defense techniques. With this type of variety in a supportive group environment, the training remains fresh and exciting. You’ll find yourself wanting more!
Programs we offer:
Kids Martial Arts
Teen and Adult Martial Arts
"I Love Kickboxing"
Tai Chi and Qi Gong
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