Tips for First Time Attendees to AMTA 2019 National Convention

Whether it’s your first AMTA Convention or your first conference EVER, here are some tips to prep you for the AMTA 2019 National Convention!

AMTA National Convention 2019 First Timers Tips

Tips for Registering for AMTA National Convention

What is this again?

AMTA 2019 National Convention

October 24-26 in Indianapolis, IN

Earn a year’s worth of the highest quality CE hours that you can find in massage therapy at AMTA 2019 National Convention. Our continuing education is rigorously vetted, meaning we take extra steps to submit for CE approval to NCBTMB and each state as required. 

You can earn up to 16+ massage therapy continuing education credits at Convention (also called CEs or CEUs). This means if you attend Thursday, October 24 through Saturday, October 26, and choose courses with the maximum number of hours you will earn 16 CE Credits.

What is the “+” in “16+”? 

There are two pre-convention workshops offered on Wednesday, October 24. Techniques for Sports Massage Therapists is worth 8.5 credit hours, and Structural Dynamics of the Lower Leg and Foot is worth 8 credit hours. Registration for these is an additional fee.

Speaking of fees, how much does it cost?

AMTA members save on the cost of registration! You’ll pay just $395 for the full convention when you register before September 5. That price increases on September 6 so register early!

If you’re not a member the full convention will cost you $530, OR you can pay just a little more to register and join AMTA for $574—a savings of $191 off the cost of both combined! Learn more. 

You also have options for single-day and exhibit hall passes. You can review those details on our registration page. 

Making Your Registration Selections

Education sessions do fill up quickly, especially the hands-on courses. It’s important to register early to ensure you get your first choice of sessions.

As you’re choosing courses be sure to check the course descriptions for any materials required. The description will indicate whether you need a table or mat, so plan to bring your own or share if you select those courses.

Since it will be your first AMTA National Convention, you get complimentary entry to the First Timers Luncheon on Thursday, October 24! Even though it’s free, you must add this to your registration so we know how many people to expect!

In addition to the CE sessions, your registration will include full access to the Exhibit Hall. Mark your calendar for Thursday night’s Opening Night Reception on October 24 (more free food!).

You’ll also get one ticket to the Dinner Dance which takes place on Saturday, October 26. You’ll have to make an entree selection when you register. Bringing a friend or partner? Additional tickets are available for purchase.

View all Convention Education Sessions


Previous attendee quote


OK, I’ve registered! Now what?

Book your room in the host hotel to secure your spot in the ultimate hub of convention activity! Details to book your hotel and more tips travel to and around Indianapolis is on the Hotel & Travel page. 

Check out the other special events and social opportunities that will take place during the week of Convention. 

View Convention Hotel & Travel


On-Site Tips

Here are a few things you may want to pack:

  • Attire is business casual. Plan to dress in layers, including a sweater/light jacket, since meeting room temperatures can vary.
  • Business cards! If you don’t have any yet, use your Office Depot / OfficeMax member discount or Vistaprint discount to get some printed.
  • Notebook and pens to take notes
  • Some snacks to keep in your bag

Badges must be worn at all times on-site including for the Opening Session on Thursday morning. This means you’ll need to plan to pick-up your registration packet on Wednesday or early Thursday.

When you pick up your registration packet and badge you’ll also get a complimentary tote bag to carry your stuff – like free samples from the Exhibit Hall!

Once you get your registration packet, verify that your course tickets are all included and accurate. If not, it’s OK! Just stop by the registration desk to get it straightened out.

Download the app when it’s available closer to time (registered attendees will receive an email when it’s available). 

Ready to attend?

Don’t miss the largest conference for massage therapists!

Register now for the AMTA 2018 National Convention

Still have some questions?

If you’re on the fence or have more questions that we don’t address here, feel free to call us at 1-877-905-2700 or email convention@amtamassage.org


Learn More about Convention

Get Inspired by a New Keynote Speaker Each Day »

Learn from the best at AMTA 2019 National Convention »

Special Events & Social Opportunities »