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.
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 Shield, 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.
Hear What Families Have To Say About Us
Diane S
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.
Mandie W
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!
Stefan D
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of martial arts do you offer at White Oak Martial Arts?
We offer Krav Maga (translated as "Contact Combat") for kids and adults. Krav Maga is a self defense system designed to create real world self defense skills, physical fitness, life skills, and community. We also teach "I Love Kickboxing" fitness kickboxing, and an authentic Tai Chi and QiGong program.
Do I need any prior experience to join your classes?
No prior experience is required. Our classes are suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Our instructors provide personalized guidance to help you progress at your own pace.
What should I wear to my first class?
For your first class, wear comfortable athletic clothing and bring a water bottle. If you decide to join us, we will provide you with the appropriate uniform. After that, most students attend classes twice each week.
How do I sign up for a membership or schedule a class?
We recommend that you try a complimentary class first to make sure that we are a good fit for each other. After that we will guide you through the enrollment process at our school. Prices vary for our various programs, but our core martial arts program is around $110 every other week. We will be happy to give you our complete pricing and scheduling.