Karate, Martial Arts and Self Defense Classes

in Smyrna & Antioch,  TN

Take advantage of our 8-week Special!
Includes free uniform!  $99 

Phone Icon
Call Us
Mail Icon
EMAIL US
Location Icon
VISIT US

12976 Old Nashville Smyrna, TN

Martial Arts Classes in Smyrna & Antioch, TN


Welcome to O'Riley Karate Centers, where we are dedicated to teaching the art of Wado-Ryu Karate-Do. With locations in Antioch and Smyrna, Tennessee, we offer comprehensive martial arts instruction for students of all ages and skill levels. 

a man and a boy are practicing karate and the man has a black belt

Self Defense Classes in Smyrna & Antioch,  TN

Self-defense is a serious subject, but this is not the army, it is a classroom and we have fun while learning. Even the strongest building can’t stand on a weak foundation. That is why we support each other in class because you can only learn and grow if you have a strong support system to stand on. Come and meet like-minded individuals, engage with other members of your community, and have some fun!

Learn More

Karate Classes for Kids in Smyrna & Antioch,  TN

Children need lots of activity to use all the energy they have and grow up healthy and strong. But learning a traditional martial art system is much more than just an activity. Over time it will teach a young student to concentrate, focus and stay on task. Your child will learn to defend themselves yet go out of their way to stay out of fights.   It also starts a child on a lifelong path of enjoying physical activity in a positive atmosphere.

Learn More

Training Mind & Body


What do you want to gain from a martial arts system? Do you want to be in better shape, have more confidence, relieve stress, improve awareness, or learn a new set of self-defense skills? Are your 

Looking for life skills that can change your life and even last throughout your life? 


O'Riley Karate Centers, LLC is here to provide the people of Nashville, Murfreesboro, and Smyrna with a place to improve their health, have fun, and forget about the outside world for a while. Many people believe that joining a martial arts center is all about fighting. In some cases this can be true… You will sure learn to defend yourself. However it is much, much more that just fighting skills. You teach you to control your techniques in order to keep injuries from occurring.  Safety is a priority…


If you live in Davidson, Rutherford, or surrounding counties Smyrna and are looking for way to stay fit, meet new people, and improve yourself, or just want to try out a true Japanese Karate System, 

 contact us today to try our special trial program. 

Call or Text to set up a time to meet!  

615.310.3722

a woman with a black belt and a girl with a green belt are practicing karate

Martial arts instruction Wado-Ryu-karate-Do

Antioch and Smyrna, TN


  • Two martial artists in white gis practice kata in a gym, with spectators seated along the wall.

    Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button
  • Person in green shirt balancing on logs by a lake with mountains and trees in the background

    Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button
  • Martial artist in white gi kneels with sword extended in an indoor gymnasium

    Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

Founded October 1st, 1994, O'Riley Karate Centers in Antioch and Smyrna, TN are under the direction of founder and chief martial arts instructor Sensei Steve O'Riley. Beginning his training in Wado-Ryu in 1984, under the guidance of 7th Dan Taylor Hayden, O'Riley-San received his Black Belt in June of 1988, currently holds the rank of Roku-Dan (7th Degree Black Belt) and holds the honor of having trained personally under Shihan Cecil T. Patterson.


O'Riley-San was presented with the 1998 Associate Dojo of the year by Master Instructor Taylor K. Hayden, Chief instructor and Head of the board of directors/USEWF (United States Eastern Wady-Ryu Karate Federation).


An avid and successful competitor, Sensei O'Riley has earned title after title in both kata and kumite, most notably, winning the USEWF kumite Championships a record seven years, and being named fighter of the decade at the 2000 USEWF Championships. In addition, he holds the distinction of being a recipient of the President's Award in 1998 and 2002, one of the USEWF's most prestigious honors for service to the Federation, and awarded by Shihan Patterson himself. O'Riley Sensei fulfilled another chapter in his Wado career by traveling to England and participating in the 2004 Winter seminars under Grandmaster Hironori Ohtsuka II, Sensei Masafumi Shiomitsu and other dedicated Wadoka from around the world, for three days of intensive, advanced training.  Sensei O’Rikey has also trained in many seminars under the direct tutelage of the grandson of the founder of Wado-Ryu Karate… 


Sensei O’Riley has traveled and trained in Japan on (3) different occasions. 2009-2015 Competing on the US Team and in 2016 for 2nd Grandmasters Memorial Service. 

Other highlights include:

  • 2012 Dojo of the Year award
  • 2009 School of the Year award
  • Traveled to Japan as a member of the 2009 U.S. Wado-Ryu Team that
  • Competed in the 75th anniversary Wado-Ryu championships, Tokyo Japan
  • Competed in the 45th international Wado-Ryu world championships Tokyo Japan
  • 2009 U.S. Eastern Wado-Ryu Federation instructor of the year
  • Inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame in 2007
  • Received Grand Master Otsuka Award in 2005 presented by Shihan Patterson
  • 2001 RSKC 3rd overall for the year after only competing in (3) tournaments
  • Instructor of the Year in 2000, by Master Instructor Taylor K. Hayden
  • U.S. Eastern Wado-Ryu Federation Fighting Champion of the Decade
  • Lifetime member of the Global Directory of Who's Who
  • Advanced training (4) times a day totaling (8) hours a day for (4) days in Brazil
  • Five days of advanced training in Europe
  • 2017 Received Authentic Wado Instructors Certification from 3rd Grandmaster
  • Promoted to 7th level Black Belt
  • 2019 Renshi Shihan ( 3rd level Master Teacher)
  • 2022 Kyoshi-Shihan (2nd level Master Instructor)
  • 2022 was Inducted into the US Eastern Wado Hall of Fame 
  • 2023 Awarded Assistant Chairman of the Board USEWKF by federation head John Patterson

As one of the USEWF's most respected instructors, O'Riley-San has dojo locations in Antioch and Smyrna and conducts both day and evening classes each week for adults and children. Sensei O'Riley is hands on when it comes to his students. Although not all classes are taught by the Sensei! All students are taught and overseen and all promotions are conducted by Mr. O’Riley himself. 


O'Riley Karate Centers in Smyrna & Antioch,  GA offer complete martial arts training for the dedicated martial artist and athlete.

Call Us

Frequently Asked Questions About Karate, Martial Arts & Self Defense Classes in Smyrna & Antioch, TN


  • Will martial arts make my child violent?

    No. Martial arts are used for self-defense and as a last resort. The core principles of O'Riley Karate Centers, LLC is solving problems by peaceful resolution and having the self-confidence to not rely on violent behavior.

  • My child is not very athletic. Can they still benefit from martial arts?

    Certainly. We teach them skills that will help with their coordination, flexibility and strength. We make sure that the activities we assign are appropriate for the child’s athletic level.

  • Will my child be injured if they practice martial arts?

    There is a chance of physical injury with any form of exercise. We take very special care to supervise all exercises to see that the students are performing them correctly. Sparring is only performed at higher levels by those who wish to participate and we feel have the skills to spar in a safe manner.

  • How fit do I have to be to take an adult martial arts class?

    We have people of almost all levels of fitness attend our classes. Your level of fitness is not that important a factor because we work on improving your level, no matter where you are in terms of physical fitness.

  • I have a past injury or medical condition. Can I still train in martial arts?

    You will need to talk to your doctor about the risks you may incur by performing rigorous exercise. They will know best about what your body can safely handle.

  • What should I wear for my first class?

    Bring a top and pants that are comfortable and easy to move in.

  • What age groups can participate in karate classes at O'Riley Karate Centers?

    O'Riley Karate Centers offers martial arts training for children, teens, and adults of all ages and experience levels. Our classes are designed to help students develop physical fitness, confidence, discipline, focus, and practical self-defense skills in a positive and supportive environment.

  • What style of karate is taught at O'Riley Karate Centers?

    O'Riley Karate Centers specializes in Wado-Ryu Karate-Do, a traditional Japanese martial arts system that combines effective self-defense techniques, movement, discipline, and mental development. Students learn traditional karate principles while developing practical skills they can apply in real-life situations.

  • What are the benefits of taking karate classes?

    Karate provides benefits that go beyond physical training. Students can improve strength, flexibility, coordination, balance, endurance, confidence, focus, and self-discipline. Martial arts training also teaches respect, goal setting, perseverance, and personal responsibility.

  • Are karate classes good for children?

    Yes. Karate classes are an excellent activity for children because they provide structured physical exercise while teaching important life skills. Kids learn concentration, confidence, respect, self-control, teamwork, and how to handle challenges in a positive way.

  • Will my child learn to fight?

    The goal of martial arts is not to encourage fighting. At O'Riley Karate Centers, students learn self-defense, awareness, and control. Training emphasizes avoiding conflict whenever possible, using techniques responsibly, and developing confidence without aggression.

  • What is included in the 8-week special offer?

    New students can take advantage of our 8-week special, which includes martial arts training and a free uniform for only $99. Contact O'Riley Karate Centers today to learn more and reserve your spot.

  • Do martial arts classes help with self-defense?

    Yes. Self-defense training teaches students awareness, confidence, proper technique, and how to respond appropriately in challenging situations. Our instructors focus on controlled training in a safe classroom environment while helping students develop practical self-defense skills.

  • Are karate classes only for people who want to compete?

    No. While some students choose to participate in tournaments and competitions, many students join karate classes for fitness, confidence, discipline, stress relief, and personal growth. Training is designed to benefit anyone looking to improve themselves.

  • What should I expect during my first karate class?

    Your first class will introduce you to the fundamentals of karate, including basic movements, techniques, class structure, and training expectations. Our instructors will help you feel comfortable and make sure you understand how to safely participate.

  • Is martial arts training safe?

    Safety is a top priority at O'Riley Karate Centers. Students learn proper techniques, control, and discipline while training in a structured environment. Instructors focus on helping students develop skills safely while respecting their training partners.

  • How often should I attend karate classes?

    Consistency is the key to improvement. Students are encouraged to attend classes regularly so they can build strength, improve techniques, and continue progressing through their martial arts journey.

  • What makes O'Riley Karate Centers different from other martial arts schools?

    Founded in 1994, O'Riley Karate Centers provides authentic Wado-Ryu Karate-Do instruction under the direction of Sensei Steve O'Riley. With decades of experience, traditional training, and a commitment to student development, the school provides martial arts education focused on both skill development and personal growth.

  • Do you offer adult martial arts classes in Smyrna and Antioch?

    Yes. Adults of all experience levels can participate in karate training. Classes provide a great way to improve fitness, relieve stress, learn self-defense, and become part of a supportive martial arts community.

  • Where are O'Riley Karate Centers located?

    O'Riley Karate Centers serves students in Smyrna and Antioch, Tennessee, with convenient locations for families and individuals throughout Davidson, Rutherford, and surrounding counties.

  • How do I get started with karate classes?

    Getting started is easy. Contact O'Riley Karate Centers today to schedule your visit, learn more about available classes, and take advantage of the 8-week special offer. Call or text 615-310-3722 to begin your martial arts journey.

Testimonials