The Annual Conference:

Teaching the Teacher

Teaching the Teacher 2026

April 10-12, 2026

Mark Your Calendar!

DoubleTree by Hilton New Orleans
New Orleans, LA

Whether you're new to teaching or a seasoned pro, school owner or part-time assistant, the Teaching the Teacher conference is for you. Our conference presenters are women of high skill and deep experience. Like our membership itself, they represent a wide range of martial arts styles, and hold a common desire to share what they know for the betterment of all.

The Association of Women Martial Arts Instructors invites you to take part in this very special opportunity, to:

  • Network with other women who love and teach martial arts.
  • Learn from successful instructors and school owners with decades of experience.
  • Improve your best practices for sustaining your school and adding value for your students.
  • Share your expertise, and support other women in the martial arts and self-defense communities.
  • Relax and be the student instead of the teacher!
  • Applaud your colleagues receiving Rank Promotion or Recognition, or entering the Hall of Fame.


“It was so fun to get to attend this year. I learned so much and am implementing as we speak. It was great to make more connections and get to know folks more in this intimate environment.
Even if I can’t make it, I am going to make sure to send student teachers every year!"
-Sifu Michele Miller

Location, Location, Location!

The conference is held each year, at varied locations in the U.S.... but normally in a hotel setting with classroom space, workout space, excellent and reasonably priced accommodations, and warm weather!

In 2026 we visit New Orleans, LA

Enjoy a walkable downtown, unforgettable culture and outstanding infrastructure along with an amazing martial arts conference!

April 10-12, 2026
DoubleTree by Hilton New Orleans
300 Canal Street
New Orleans, Louisiana

Conference Thumbnail Schedule

Thursday April 9

5:00 - 6:30 pm Early Arrivals Welcome Reception

Friday April 10

9:00 am Teacher Introductions and Conference Begins!

Saturday April 11

Classes All Day, Demos, Awards and Banquet

Sunday April 12

Classes All Morning, Conference Ends at Noon


Start and end times are approximate

Teaching the Teacher: Be a Presenter

AnaAWMAI actively seeks dynamic presenters for our annual conference. Share your knowledge, skills, experience and vision with a talented group of colleagues! Past topics have included:
  • Skill building for instructors
  • Creating an instructor training program
  • The challenges and joys of teaching children
  • Inventive warm-ups for all ages
  • Sales and marketing tactics to use (or avoid)
  • Taking your student body from 10 to 100 and beyond
  • The ins and outs of opening a school
  • Applying the principles of motor learning
  • Creating dynamic demonstrations
  • Social dynamics within the classroom
  • Recognizing abilities and differences

Classes may take the form of lecture/discussion, or “moving classroom,” where participants practice while they learn.

Application period for 2026 Teaching the Teacher is coming soon! Watch here for a link to the teacher application form.

Curious about past sessions? Download a Sample List by Category or a Complete List.

AWMAI

The Association of Women Martial Arts Instructors is a non-profit organization. ©2025 All rights reserved.

Email: admin@awmai.org

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