Every year, when we start putting Martial Summit together, I have a pretty good idea of what we're building. And then I look at the schedule, the presenters, and the people making plans to attend, and I realize just how much bigger this has become.
This year's numbers are worth sharing.
4 days. 78+ sessions. 54 presenters.
November 5–8, in Keene, New Hampshire, we're bringing together 54 presenters for more than 78 training sessions over four days.
That's a lot of martial arts. And I don't expect anyone to attend everything. The point isn't to check off as many classes as possible. It's to explore. Try something you've never done. Spend time with an instructor whose approach is different from yours. Go back to your own training with a new idea you can't wait to try.
I've been training for decades, and I still find things that make me rethink what I know. That's a big part of why Martial Summit exists.
Hundreds of attendees. 13+ states.
We have people coming from at least 13 states, and we expect hundreds of attendees. Different styles, schools, ages, and levels of experience, all sharing space and learning from each other.
It's easy for martial arts schools to become their own little worlds. We get comfortable with our people and the way we do things. There's nothing wrong with that, but there's a lot to gain from seeing what's happening outside those walls.
Some of the best things to come out of Summit aren't even on the schedule. They're conversations between classes, friendships that keep going afterward, and invitations to train together again.
Ages 6+. Everyone is welcome.
Martial Summit isn't reserved for black belts or experienced martial artists. We have a dedicated youth track for ages 6–11, and training opportunities for people with a wide range of backgrounds.
You don't need to train in a particular style or belong to a particular organization. Come in your usual training uniform and belt, ready to learn and be respectful of the people sharing what they know.
The most important number: $0.
Every training session is free. Not just a few introductory classes. All of them.
We've always believed that martial arts should bring people together, and that people willing to share what they know deserve an audience. Removing the training fee makes it easier for a student, an instructor, or a whole school to take part.
Optional paid events include Master Ken Live on Friday and the WMAL Banquet and Awards on Saturday. But if you're coming to train, the cost of training is zero.
The numbers only tell part of the story.
We can count sessions and presenters. We can't count the moment someone discovers a new favorite technique, meets a future training partner, or realizes that a martial art they knew almost nothing about has something to teach them.
That's the part I care about most.
Martial Summit 2026 takes place November 5–8 in Keene, New Hampshire. Review the schedule, find classes that interest you, and bring someone from your school. Better yet, bring someone who hasn't been to Summit before.
Training is free, but please pre-register so we can prepare for everyone.
You'll find the schedule, free pre-registration, and details about the optional evening events at MartialSummit.com.
I hope I'll see you there.