Physical education and health professionals are constantly seeking ways to improve their knowledge, skills, and practices in their respective fields. Attending conferences, conventions, and professional workshops offers unique opportunities for professional development, networking, and staying up-to-date with the latest research and innovations. Attending these events is crucial for educators, health professionals, researchers, and policy-makers as they provide valuable insights, innovative ideas, and an opportunity to connect with colleagues from various parts of the world.
The article will explore how attending a PE and health conference can benefit your professional growth and inspire you to incorporate fresh ideas in teaching. It will feature various in-person conferences, conventions, and workshops held by international, national, and state organizations. I will include an explanation and a website link for each event, along with the date and city where it will take place in 2024. Moreover, I will list nine things that you could expect when you attend a professional conference or convention. Let's get at it!!
What are the Reasons to Attend a Professional PE/Health Event?
As the field of physical education and health continues to evolve, teachers must keep abreast of the latest trends, best practices, research, and technologies to ensure their teaching is effective, engaging, and relevant. Professional conferences, conventions, and workshops serve as invaluable platforms for this continuous professional development. Here are several reasons why physical education and health teachers should consider attending these professional events:
1 - Continuing Education and Professional Development
First and foremost, conferences, conventions, and workshops provide an opportunity for continuing education and professional development. They offer a wealth of sessions, workshops, and keynote speeches that explore the latest research, methods, and trends in physical education and health that are important in their district, state or country. These insights can help teachers enhance their teaching strategies, develop new skills, and stay current in their field, ultimately leading to improved student outcomes.
2 - Exposure to New Ideas and Approaches
These professional events also expose teachers to new ideas and approaches that they might not encounter in their daily work. They can learn about innovative teaching methods, technologies, and resources that can make their classes more engaging and effective. This exposure can inspire teachers to try new things in their physical education programs and think outside the box in their teaching.
3- Inspiration and Motivation
Listening to keynote speakers, attending workshops, and engaging with other professionals can provide inspiration and fresh ideas for teachers to take back to their classrooms. Conferences can rekindle the passion for teaching and help educators become more motivated and enthusiastic about their work.
4- Continuing Education Credits
Many conferences and workshops offer continuing education units (CEUs) or professional development points (PDPs) that can be applied towards maintaining teaching licenses or certifications. Attending these events can help educators fulfill their requirements while also enhancing their professional skills.
5 - Networking Opportunities
Conferences, conventions, and workshops also provide ample opportunities for networking. Teachers can connect with other professionals in their field, share experiences and ideas, and learn from each other. These connections can lead to collaborative projects, job opportunities, and a sense of community among professionals.
6 - Insights into Policy and Standards
Attending these events can also give teachers insights into policy developments and changes in educational standards. Understanding these changes is crucial for aligning teaching practices with current expectations and ensuring students are prepared for future learning and life opportunities.
7 - Access to Resources and Tools
Many conferences and conventions feature exhibitions where companies showcase their latest products and services. Teachers can explore new teaching tools, educational technologies, fitness equipment, and health resources. They can also get firsthand demonstrations and ask questions to ensure these tools and resources are a good fit for their classes.
8 - Advocacy and Awareness
Attending conferences, conventions, or workshops can help raise awareness about the importance of physical education and health education in the broader educational landscape. Teachers can learn about current advocacy efforts, policies, and legislation that can impact their field, and be better prepared to advocate for the needs of their students and programs.
8 - Personal and Professional Growth
Finally, attending a conference, convention, or workshop can contribute to personal and professional growth. It can reignite a teacher's passion for their profession, provide fresh perspectives, and offer a break from the routine. This can lead to increased motivation, job satisfaction, and effectiveness in the classroom.
9 - Building a Professional Identity
Active participation in professional events can enhance a teacher's reputation and credibility within their field. Presenting at conferences or contributing to workshops can also help establish a teacher as an expert in their area of specialization.
Attending professional conferences, conventions, and workshops is a significant investment in a teacher's professional journey. It offers opportunities for continuous learning, exposure to new ideas, networking, and personal and professional growth. As such, physical education and health teachers should consider these events a vital part of their professional development strategy.
Top Physical Education and Health In-Person Conferences for 2024
Below are some of the top state, national, and international in-person physical education and health conferences to consider attending in 2024. They are categorized as follows: National (PE & health, adapted PE, athletic training, dance, health specific, sports medicine, strength and conditioning), Prominent US PE Conferences and Workshops, Highly Attended State Association Conferences, and Notable International PE and Health Conventions.
Click the link to jump to any of the highlighted "in-person" physical education and health conference reviews:
U.S. National Conferences and Conventions
Prominent United States PE Conferences and Workshops
Highly Attended State Association Conferences and Conventions
Notable International PE and Health Conferences and Conventions
National Conferences and Conventions
Physical Education and Health
SHAPE America Summer Institute
The SHAPE America Summer Institute is an excellent opportunity for PE and health educators to explore current issues, trends, research, and best practices in the field during the summer break. The institute includes a variety of workshops on topics such as injury prevention, physical activity promotion, and fitness assessment.
Dates: July 29-30 2024 - Minneapolis, MN
SHAPE America National Convention & Expo
The Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) America National Convention & Expo is the largest annual gathering of PE teachers and health professionals in the United States. The conference offers a comprehensive program that includes keynote speakers, research presentations, and interactive workshops on topics such as physical literacy, sports safety, and inclusive physical education.
Website: https://convention.shapeamerica.org/
Dates: March 12- 16, 2024 - Cleveland, OH
Active Schools National Summit
This three day event organized by "Active Schools" will bring together leading researchers, practitioners and educators to explore the latest trends in physical education and health literacy. The summit offers attendees a unique opportunity to learn about the most current research, gain hands-on experience with innovative teaching strategies, hear inspiring stories of success from fellow school administrators and teachers, engage with national leaders in PE policy development, and develop new skills to improve both teaching practices and student outcomes.
Dates: July 17-19, 2024 - University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO
NAHPL National Summit
The NAHPL is an organization that focuses on promoting health and physical literacy through various means such as professional development, advocacy, mentoring, and research in the fields of health, physical education, dance, and sport. It is a member-driven organization that values diversity and inclusivity. Nine professional educators founded the Academy in 2020 to promote the knowledge, health, productivity, and fulfillment of its members by focusing on health and physical literacy. The first annual summit took place in April of this year.
Dates: April 7-10, 2024- Baton Rouge, LA
Adapted Physical Education
National Adapted Physical Education Conference (NAPEC52)
NAPEC52 is an annual conference that brings together researchers, educators, clinicians and administrators from all over the world to share knowledge, experiences and best practices related to adapted PE. The event features a wide range of topics such as health literacy for people with disabilities, sport-specific adaptations, and inclusive coaching strategies.
Website: http://www.cahperd.org
Dates: Check back soon for dates, times and a venue for 2024!
NCPEID Annual Conference
The National Consortium for Physical Education for Individuals with Disabilities (NCPEID) Annual Conference provides knowledge, resources and development opportunities to physical education professionals from all over the world. Attendees will learn about current trends in physical activity, explore best practices in adapted physical education, and network with other experts.
Dates: Check back soon for dates, times and a venue for 2024!
Athletic Training
National Athletic Trainers’ Association Annual Symposium & Expo
The National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) holds an annual symposium to discuss current best practices, research and trends in the field of athletic training. Attendees can take part in sessions on topics such as injury prevention, nutrition, recovery and more.
Dates: June 25 - 28, 2024 - New Orleans, LA
Dance
National Dance Education Organization (NDEO) Conference
The NDEO Conference is an annual event that brings together dance educators, administrators, and artists to discuss, learn, and share best practices in dance education. The conference features keynote speakers, research presentations, master classes, and panel discussions on various topics related to dance education, including curriculum development, assessment, and cultural diversity. Attendees can also participate in movement workshops and network with fellow dance professionals.
Date: September 29 - October 1, 2024 - Bellevue, WA (Seattle area)
Health Specific
ASHA's Annual School Health Conference
The National Health Education Conference is an annual event organized by the American School Health Association (ASHA). It provides an interdisciplinary platform for health educators, school nurses, counselors, and other professionals involved in promoting health and wellness in educational settings. The conference offers workshops, presentations, and roundtable discussions on various health education topics, including mental health, nutrition, substance abuse prevention, and sexual health education.
Date: October 16-18, 2024 - Pittsburgh, PN
Sports Medicine
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Annual Meeting
The ACSM Annual Meeting is a premier event for sports medicine and exercise science professionals. This conference offers a wide range of sessions covering topics such as sports injury prevention, exercise physiology, and nutrition. With a focus on translating research into practice, attendees can expect to learn about the latest advancements in sports medicine and how to apply them in their work. The ACSM Annual Meeting also includes an exhibit hall, showcasing the latest products, services, and technology in the industry.
Date: May 28-May 31, 2024 - Boston, Massachusetts
Strength and Conditioning
National Strength & Conditioning Association National Conference
The National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA) hosts a national conference every year to bring together strength and conditioning professionals from around the world. Attendees have the opportunity to network with their peers and hear about the latest research in areas such as exercise physiology, biomechanics and more.
Dates: July 10-13, 2024 - Baltimore, MD & Online
Prominent United States PE Conferences and Workshops
K-8 Elementary Physical Education Workshop (EPEW)
EPEW offers a platform for creative and inspirational teachers to share their expertise in teaching with those who want to enhance their skills. Numerous presenters, who are renowned in Physical Education, allow attendees to benefit from their knowledge. In addition to proficiency in areas like assessment, technology, and integrating standards, EPEW also enables networking opportunities with teachers from across the United States and globally.
Website: https://epew-cp.weebly.com/
Dates: July 15-19, 2024 - Cal Poly Pomona, Pomona, CA
2024 National PE Institute
The National Physical Education Institute Returns! Most Anticipated K-12 #PhysEd Re-Boot! This PE Institute was created to re-capture the imagination of physical education teacher-leaders towards doing the hard work of connecting the written, taught, and tested curriculum in the same manner as other academic subjects like science, math, and language arts. This annual summer event takes place at the Sherrill Center Complex on the campus of the University of North Carolina - Asheville.
Dates: July 24-26, 2024 - Asheville, North Carolina - Sherrill Center/Kimmel Arena
KYSHAPE Summer Move, Thrive Conference
The Summer Move, Thrive Conference, hosted by the Kentucky Society of Health and Physical Educators (KYSHAPE), is an annual event (this year being the 3rd time) that aims to offer professional development activities, networking chances, and advanced strategies to health and physical education professionals. The ultimate goal of this conference is to help teachers better assist their students to succeed. The conference offers three days of comprehensive sessions, interactive workshops, and inspiring keynote speakers.
Dates: July 7-9, 2024 - Louisville, KY - Hilton Garden Inn
Share the Wealth PE Conference
Every year for over 35 years, physical education teachers have been attending the Share the Wealth PE Conference. The conference is organized by Georgia AHPERD at the end of January every year. It is an international event that takes place at the Jekyll Island Convention Center located on the coast of Georgia. Physical education teachers consider this conference to be one of the best K-12 practitioner conferences in the United States. The presenters are energetic, knowledgeable and practical in their approach!
Dates: January 25-27, 2024- Jekyll Island, GA
Highly Attended State Association Conferences and Conventions
California Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (CAHPERD) State Conference
The CAHPERD State Conference is an annual event that brings together PE teachers, health educators, and recreation professionals from California. The conference features a wide range of workshops, presentations, and keynote addresses on topics such as physical literacy, technology in PE, and inclusive teaching strategies.
Website: http://www.cahperd.org
Dates: February 1-3, 2024 - Garden Grove, CA
Illinois Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (IAHPERD) Convention
The IAHPERD Convention is annual event that provides a platform for IHPERD professionals to come together and gain invaluable knowledge, insights, and skills. It offers training sessions, engaging presentations from prominent speakers in the industry, as well as networking opportunities. Professionals can learn about current trends and developments in health education, PE, recreation programming, and more.
Website: https://iaherd.org/convention/
Dates: November 30- December 1, 2023 - Tinley Park, IL
Louisiana Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (LAHPERD) State Conference
The Louisiana Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (LAHPERD) State Conference is an event where professionals can review current physical education trends and topics, network with peers from around the state, earn continuing education credits, and find out about new products and services. The conference also provides professional development opportunities in health-related areas such as nutrition, fitness, injury prevention, motor skill development, physical activity promotion and more. Participants will be able to attend workshops that focus on the most up-to-date research and practices related to their profession.
Website: https://www.lahperd.org/convention
Dates: Check back soon for dates, times and a venue for 2024!
NC SHAPE Convention
The NC SHAPE Convention is an annual gathering of physical education professionals from across North Carolina. The purpose of this event is to provide support, professional development, and networking opportunities for physical education teachers and administrators. The 2023 convention highlights a Digital Learning & Literacy Focus. The convention features a variety of interactive workshops, inspiring keynote speakers, and educational sessions that will help attendees stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in the field.
Dates: Check back soon for dates, times and a venue for 2024!
New York Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (NYAHPERD) Convention
The NYAHPERD Convention is an annual event that serves health, physical education, recreation, and dance professionals in New York. The convention offers professional development workshops, inspiring sessions from innovative speakers, and opportunities for networking among participants. Professionals can learn about best practices related to PE, health promotion, recreation programming, and more.
Dates: November 20-23, 2023 - Verona, NY
Texas Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (TAHPERD) Convention
The Texas Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (TAHPERD) Convention is an annual event organized by TAHPERD, a professional organization dedicated to promoting quality programs in health, PE, recreation, and dance in Texas. The convention brings together professionals, educators, and students in these fields to share knowledge, network, and attend workshops and presentations related to their respective areas.
Dates: December 4-7, 2024 - Galveston, TX
Wisconsin Health and Physical Education Annual Convention
The Wisconsin Health and Physical Education (WHPE) Annual Convention is an opportunity for physical education, health, recreation and dance professionals to network, learn best practices, and share ideas. Participants will be able to attend workshops focused on improving their skills in the classroom or gym, hear inspiring sessions from guest speakers, and find out what’s new in the field of physical education.
Dates: October 23-25, 2024 - Wisconsin Dells, WI
Click here to go to SHAPE America's web page for access to all of the state affiliate websites. Each state will provide information for their respective state's conference or convention!
Notable International PE and
Health Conferences and Conventions
ACHPER NSW Annual K-12 PDHPE Conference
The ACHPER, New South Wales Conference is an opportunity for K-12 PE and health professionals to come together and discuss the current state of their profession. It includes engaging presentations, workshops, and networking opportunities with colleagues from around the world. Presenters will provide insights into cutting edge research in the field, while addressing current issues that educators face in their classrooms. Attendees will leave inspired by new ideas, better equipped to deliver quality lessons, more aware of contemporary pedagogical approaches, and connected with other like-minded professionals.
Date: Check back soon for dates, times and a venue for 2024!
ACHPER Victoria Annual K-12 PDHPE Conference
The conference is a two-day event featuring an impressive array of keynote speakers, educational experts and researchers. Sessions will cover a variety of topics including curriculum design and implementation, teaching strategies, assessment practices, mental health and wellbeing in the classroom, interactive activities for students, physed pedagogy, technology integration in PDHPE and much more. There will also be opportunities to engage in discussions around best practice teaching approaches as well as innovative ideas in subject delivery.
Date: Check back soon for dates, times and a venue for 2024!
AIESEP International Conference
The International Association for Physical Education in Higher Education (AIESEP) organizes an annual conference that brings together scholars, researchers, and practitioners from around the world to discuss current trends, issues, and research in PE, sport pedagogy, and physical activity. The conference features keynote speakers, research presentations, and workshops on various topics, including curriculum development, teacher education, and inclusive physical education.
Date: May 13-17, 2024 Jyvaskyla, Finland
PHE Canada National Conference
The PHE Canada National Conference is a premier national event that provides an opportunity for physical education and health professionals to connect, network, and learn from one another. It is an annual event that brings together PE, health, and recreation professionals from all over Canada. The conference includes keynote presentations on current topics in physical education, discussions about the promotion of physical activity and health across the lifespan, and hands-on practical workshops on effective teaching strategies.
Website: https://phecanada.ca/
Dates: May 1-4, 2024 Saskatoon, SK
PHASE Saia Pacific - Teach, Learn, Inspire
This three-day conference is specifically tailored for physical educators and sport coaches who want to stay ahead in their field. It's an opportunity to learn from the world’s top professionals and be inspired by them. Presenters include leading experts in physical education, sports psychology, biomechanics and more. PHASE Hong Kong provides attendees with the resources they need to develop both as a coach and educator. PHASE is a is a global community of educators who are focused on physical education, health, athletics, sports, and experiential learning.
Website: https://phase.community/phase-hk
Dates: Check back soon for dates, times and a venue for 2024!
International Conference on Physical Education and Sport Science (ICPESS)
This conference provides a platform for researchers, academicians, practitioners, and students from various areas of Physical Education and Sports Science to present their research findings. The conference is designed to cover topics such as sports science, sports training, physical health and fitness, nutrition and metabolism, exercise physiology, biomechanics and motor control. Attendees will have the chance to gain insights into the latest breakthroughs in the field from leading experts from around the world.
Website: https://icpess.gr/en/
Date: Check back soon for dates, times and a venue for 2024!
International Physical Literacy Conference (IPLC)
The International Physical Literacy Conference (IPLC) is a biennial event that brings together professionals from around the world to discuss the latest research and best practices in physical literacy. The conference focuses on promoting lifelong physical activity and enhancing the quality of physical education and health programs. With a diverse program that includes presentations, workshops, and panel discussions, the IPLC provides opportunities for attendees to learn from experts, share ideas, and network with peers. The information for 2024 will be updated once it becomes available.
Website: https://sportforlife.ca/iplc/
Dates: Check back soon for dates, times and a venue for 2024!
What to Expect at a Professional Physical Education and Health Conference
Whether you're a first-time attendee or a seasoned conference-goer, it's helpful to know what to expect at these events. Here are some key aspects of a typical physical education and health conference:
1 - Keynote Speakers
Many conferences feature prominent keynote speakers who address important topics and share their expertise in the field of physical education and health. These presentations can be highly informative and inspiring, providing insights into current trends, research, and best practices.
2 - Breakout Sessions and Workshops
Conferences typically offer a variety of concurrent breakout sessions and workshops that cover a wide range of topics related to physed and health. These sessions may focus on teaching strategies, assessment, technology integration, sports safety, inclusive practices, or other relevant themes. Workshops often provide hands-on experiences, enabling attendees to engage in practical learning and application of new techniques and approaches.
3 - Research Presentations
Physical education and health conferences often include research presentations, where professionals and researchers share their latest findings and discuss the implications for practice. Attending these sessions can help you stay up-to-date with the latest evidence-based practices and inform your own teaching strategies.
4 - Networking Opportunities
Conferences provide numerous opportunities for networking with fellow professionals. This can happen during breaks, meals, social events, or between sessions. Networking allows attendees to share experiences, exchange ideas, and create valuable connections that can lead to future collaborations or professional opportunities.
5 - Exhibition Hall
Many conferences have an exhibition hall or vendor area, where companies and organizations showcase their products and services related to physical education and health. Attendees can explore a variety of resources, tools, and technologies, such as fitness equipment, educational software, and instructional materials. This is an excellent opportunity to discover new resources and gather ideas to enhance your teaching.
6 - Continuing Education Units (CEUs)/Professional Development Credits
Many conferences offer Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or professional development credits for attending the event. These credits may be required for maintaining teaching certifications or demonstrating ongoing professional development.
7 - Inspiration and Motivation
Beyond the formal learning opportunities, attending a conference can reinvigorate your passion for your profession, provide fresh perspectives, and motivate you to implement new ideas in your teaching.
8 - Social Events
Conferences often include social events, such as receptions, dinners, or informal gatherings, that provide additional opportunities for networking and relaxation. These events can be a great way to connect with other attendees and unwind after a day of learning.
9 - Conference Materials
Attendees often receive materials such as a program or schedule, abstracts of presentations, a list of exhibitors, and sometimes even recordings or slides of the presentations. These materials can be valuable resources for future reference.
Final Thoughts
In this article, I have compiled a list of some of the best US and international conferences, conventions, and workshops related to physical education and health. I have outlined some of the advantages of attending these events and what to look for in a professional conference. Whether you’re already a seasoned attendee or just starting out, I hope this article has provided you with helpful information and advice to ensure that your physical education and health event is successful. With the right resources, preparation, and attitude, you can make the most out of your professional development experience and return to your classrooms with fresh ideas, inspiration, and new connections.
Thanks for reading! I hope this article has helped with your preparation for an in-person event for physical education and health. Remember, events like these are an invaluable resource and should be taken advantage of to the fullest extent. Happy learning and enjoy your professional development experience!
Do you have a favorite physical education and health conference, convention or workshop? Share your experience below! We’d all love to hear about what you’ve learned and how attending has changed your PE and health program for the better.
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