With a 50% year-over-year growth, the event continues to unite martial artists across the region.
Boothwyn, PA – October 21, 2024
The second annual Free Training Day Mid-Atlantic (FTDMA) presented by whistlekick shattered attendance records, with a 50% increase in participants over last year’s event. Held on September 21, 2024, at Boothwyn Elementary, Boothwyn, PA, this year’s event brought together over 80 individuals from various backgrounds and disciplines for a full day of learning, camaraderie, and growth.
“It’s amazing to see how much this event has grown in just two years,” said event organizer Jenni Nather. “The energy I felt in the room at Free Training Day Mid-Atlantic was full of love, curiosity, encouragement, and passion. I can’t think of a better environment to build our family and strengthen the martial arts community.”
A Record Year of Growth and Connection
In 2023, FTDMA set a first-year record for Free Training Day events and continued that momentum in 2024 by breaking the year-over-year growth record with a 50% increase in attendees. Participants engaged in a variety of classes led by experienced instructors, ranging from self-defense to advanced technical skills, creating an inclusive environment for martial artists of all styles and levels.
“Free Training Day is more than just an event,” said Nather. “It’s a family. The connections we form here go far beyond martial arts — they help build confidence, resilience, and lifelong relationships.”
Impacting the Local Community
FTDMA is about more than training; it’s about giving back to the community. Car-Mira’s Deli of Boothwyn, a proud two-time sponsor of the event, contributed to the success of this year’s gathering by supporting local martial artists and fostering a sense of togetherness within the community.
“We believe in supporting events that foster personal growth and community unity,” said Car-Mira’s Deli. “Free Training Day Mid-Atlantic is an ideal example of this, and we’re honored to contribute.”
Additional event supporters for 2024 include J+J Design of Wilmington, DE; J. Orfetel Real Estate of Wilmington, DE; Pretzel Boy’s of Aston, PA; Googahlini’s Candy Land of Newtown Square, PA; Delco Axe House of Broomall, PA; Bada-Bing Bada-Burn Custom Shop of Latham, NY; The Sugaree of Newtown Square, PA; and Chickie’s and Pete’s of Drexel Hill, PA.
“We are honored to support an event that brings so many people together,” said Delco Axe House. “The impact of Free Training Day reaches far beyond one day — it strengthens our entire community.”
Looking to the Future
As the event continues to grow, organizers are already planning for Free Training Day Mid-Atlantic 2025. The goal remains the same: to offer a day of free, top-quality martial arts instruction and to cultivate a supportive family of martial artists across the region.
Look forward to a minimum of 18 unique training sessions, including classes designed for individuals who have never tried martial arts, or who have taken an “extended pause” from their training.
“As our event grows, I would love to see more non-martial artists attend as well,” says Nather. “Free Training Day is a great opportunity for folks to see what martial arts is really about, and it’s a safe place for them to sample different styles in one place – and it’s free.”
Plans in the works include a Friday night Meet and Greet at MNSA Martial Arts in Newtown Square, PA, and an FTDMA2025 After-Party at The Delco Axe House in Broomall, PA.
For more information on how you can participate in next year’s event, visit this link. Keep an eye out for additional events leading up to FTDMA 2025, including Martial Summit 2024, November 7th – 10th in Keene, NH.
About Free Training Day Mid-Atlantic
Free Training Day Mid-Atlantic is part of a nationwide initiative to provide free martial arts training to the community, regardless of background or experience level. Led by passionate martial artists, FTDMA seeks to inspire, educate, and build lasting connections within the martial arts world.
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