Authentic Tai Chi & Qigong training for adults who want less pain, less stress, and a body they can rely on — not just another workout.
Family-owned martial arts school serving Asheville since 2000.
Most people exercise to look better.
Tai Chi trains you to last longer.
This is Tai Chi for real life — stability, mobility, and calm strength.
Limited complimentary spots each week. Reserve your free trial lesson now and feel a noticeable shift after just one class.
Takes 30 seconds. No payment required.
“I walked in stressed from work and left feeling lighter, taller, and deeply calm.” – Elena, 42
Choose a time that works for you. We’ll confirm by email within one business day.
Small classes • Beginner friendly • No experience required
You need a body that works again.
Most new students come to us because they feel:
✔ Stiff, tight, or worn down.
✔ Stressed but exhausted.
✔ Concerned about balance or aging.
✔ Frustrated that gyms hurt more than they help.
✔ Disconnected from their body.
✔ Not as capable as they used to be.
Slow, mindful sequences reset your nervous system and help your mind shift out of work mode—so you leave class calmer than you arrived.
Many students report their best night of sleep after their very first session.
Gentle weight shifting and upright posture help strengthen your legs, support your back, and ease stiffness—without impact or strain.
Perfect if you feel wobbly on stairs or tight in the lower back after sitting.
By pairing breath with movement, tai chi gives your overthinking mind something gentle to focus on—creating mental clarity without forcing meditation.
You’ll leave class with simple exercises you can use at your desk or before bed.
“After just three weeks, my shoulders dropped, my balance improved, and my doctor commented on my lower blood pressure. The free trial was what finally got me through the door—now I look forward to every class.”
— Mark, 51, software engineer
Only 8 free trial spots available this week.
We know trying something new can feel intimidating. Your instructor will meet you exactly where you are—no chanting, no competition, no pressure to perform.
You’ll be moving comfortably within minutes and leave with a calm, grounded feeling—along with a clear sense of whether tai chi is right for your body and schedule.
5 minutes – Welcome, brief chat about your goals, and a tour of the space or online setup.
15 minutes – Gentle warm-up focusing on joints, breath, and posture (all easily modified). All Qi Gong.
25 minutes – Learn a short tai chi sequence step by step, with clear, simple language.
10 minutes – Standing stillness and breathing practice to fully relax your nervous system.
5 minutes – Questions, personal recommendations, and optional membership options.
Wear anything comfortable you can move in. Sneakers, bare feet, or socks are all welcome.
Most students feel less tension, better posture, and a calmer mind after just one class
If you don’t feel any benefit, you’re under no obligation to return.
You won’t be memorizing a routine. You’ll be rebuilding how your body works.
Release chronic tension without becoming weak
Move smoothly without strain
Strengthen joints and connective tissue
Improve balance and coordination
Stay calm under pressure
Develop quiet, reliable strength
Be surprised by how much stronger and more stable you feel within a few weeks.
Less pain and stiffness
Better posture
Deeper sleep
Clearer thinking
A calmer nervous system
Real strength without joint damage
Confidence in their body again
Stability on uneven ground
Energy that lasts all day
A sense of calm capability

White Oak Martial Arts founder Derek Croley blends the Xu Guo Ming Method of tai chi with modern understanding of stress, posture, and adult learning. Students describe his classes as “calm but energizing” and “like a moving meditation that anyone can follow.”
Certified tai chi instructor with over 8,000 hours of teaching experience.
Background in Internal power exercise and mindful movement for adults 35+.
Specializes in working with beginners who feel “out of shape” or anxious.
Offers clear, down-to-earth explanations—no jargon or spiritual pressure.
Widely regarded as one of the most experienced internal martial arts instructors in the region.
“My goal in your first session is simple: that you walk out feeling better than when you walked in—and confident that tai chi is something you can really do.”
Choose a time that works, tell us a bit about your goals, and we’ll confirm by email. There’s no payment or commitment required for your first class.
You’ll receive a confirmation email with directions, parking details, or your online class link.
If you need to reschedule, simply reply to that email—no fees for changes or cancellations.
Release neck and shoulder tension
Learn to relax while moving
Build joint strength and stability
Improve breathing and circulation
Develop balance and coordination
Integrate everything into Tai Chi movement
Today’s offer: First class is completely free, with small-group attention. No contracts, no auto-billing, and no sales pressure.
We limit each trial session to ensure everyone gets one-on-one guidance.
If you’re wondering about something that isn’t covered here, simply mention it when you book—our team will respond personally.
Short on time? Skip ahead and reserve your free trial. You can always reply to your confirmation email with any questions.
No experience is required—most of our trial students have never tried tai chi before. You do not need any special equipment. Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move, and either soft-soled shoes, socks with grip, or bare feet. We provide any additional props if needed.
Yes. Most of our students are complete beginners when they take their first class.
Tai chi is highly adaptable. Movements can be made smaller, slower, or done with support from a chair or wall. During your trial, your instructor will ask about any injuries and quietly offer modifications. If standing for long periods is difficult, we can include more seated practice. If you are under medical care, we recommend checking with your doctor first.
You are exactly who we built this class for. The room is quiet, supportive, and judgment-free. Movements are broken down step by step, and it is completely normal to forget sequences or move at a different pace. We focus more on how you feel, not how you look. Many students who felt nervous at first now say tai chi is their favorite hour of the week.
Yes—tai chi is wonderful to share. When you book your free trial, you can mention that you’ll be bringing someone with you. If there is space in that session, they are welcome to join at no cost as well. For larger groups (3+), please contact us first so we can recommend the best time.
If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to start taking care of your body and nervous system, this is it. There’s no cost, no commitment—just 45 minutes devoted entirely to your wellbeing.
Reserve your free trial today and feel the difference tai chi can make in your week.
Limited complimentary spots each week to keep classes small and personal.