Welcome to our article about how to become a certified yoga instructor! We hope you will enjoy it!
Every year yoga is becoming increasingly popular around the world, and with it comes a growing demand for qualified teachers. The profession of yoga instructor is not only a way to live a life of passion, but also a feasible career option in the wellness industry. While more and more people are considering training to be a yoga instructor, they don’t always know where to start, what the process of getting yoga certified looks like and where to find a valuable certified yoga instructor course.
With this article, we outline how to become a licensed yoga instructor, what learning paths are available and which yoga teacher trainings are considered the best. You’ll also find a brief summary and some tips for getting started at the bottom.
How to become a Yoga Instructor?
To become a yoga teacher instructor, one must complete a special certification course. The most common standard is a training course of 200 hours (RYT 200), which, upon completion, allows you to apply for registration with the Registered Yoga Teacher Yoga Alliance – the largest international organization of yoga instructors.
The path to becoming a certified yoga instructor can be very individual. For some it is a path of self-development, for others it is a passion that has turned into a profession. It is crucial to choose the right course and teachers with experience.
Best Courses To Be a Yoga Instructor
Here is a list of highly regarded courses that will help you become a yoga teacher instructor and start working as a licensed yoga instructor:
1. Yoga Alliance Certified 200h – RYT 200
This is the most recognized basic course for those who want to start teaching. The program includes:
- Asanas (yoga postures)
- Pranayama (breathing exercises)
- Meditation
- Anatomy and physiology
- Teaching methodology
- Upon completion of the course, you can register as a Registered Yoga Teacher Yoga Alliance.
2. Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Course (200h or 300h)
This course focuses on the dynamic form of yoga – vinyasa. It works well for those who want to teach modern and energetic classes. Participants will learn about:
- Sequencing of classes
- Working with the breath
- Conducting group and individual classes
- This is an ideal option if you want to teach yoga instructor classes in fitness clubs or online.
3. Certified Yin Yoga and Therapeutic Yoga Teacher Training Course
This is a yoga course for people who want to deepen their knowledge of restorative yoga, relaxation and body and emotional work. These courses are often chosen by those working with seniors, pregnant women or in the area of mental health.
Such a certified yoga instructor course gives a solid base for therapeutic work.
4. Online Courses with Yoga Alliance Certification
(e.g. through My Vinyasa Practice, YogaRenew)
For those who do not have the opportunity to attend a residential course, online programs, also accredited by Yoga Alliance, are available. This format gives you flexibility and the opportunity to learn at your own pace. It’s a great option if you want to train to be a yoga instructor from anywhere in the world.
5. Other Courses in your Area in Accordance with Yoga Alliance requirements
Here – research the most reputable places in your area, offering training by experienced teachers from your location or/and abroad. Courses should be in accordance with Yoga Alliance requirements and conducted in the language you are comfortable with.
Summary
Becoming a certified yoga instructor can be about gaining technical knowledge, but also could be a beginning of a path of personal development. Make sure that you are:
- Choosing the right course – either onsite or online.
- Completing a minimum of 200 hours of training in accordance with Yoga Alliance requirements.
- Registration as a Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga Teacher.
- Continuous improvement and practice by teaching yoga instructor classes and teaching
We hope that helps! Good luck on your Yogi Path!
Namaste!