How To Become A Yoga Instructor

If you have a passion for yoga, why not share it with others?

Becoming a yoga instructor is a fulfilling career. You get to help people connect with their mind and body, relax, and improve their fitness. But how do you actually get this job?

In this blog post, I will share 5 steps to become a certified yoga instructor.

1. Develop the skills you need to succeed

To be a successful yoga teacher, you can’t just be good at yoga poses. You also need to know:

• yoga philosophy and history
• anatomy
• physiology
• how to create inclusive, accessible, and engaging classes for all levels
• how to communicate effectively
• how to have empathy for your students to create a supportive environment

The good news is, all of these skills can be learned and strengthened!

2. Know your style

There are so many different styles of yoga, and so many ways to teach it! Think about your preferred style(s) of yoga to help you figure out what type of classes you want to offer.

Some examples include:

• Hatha yoga
• Vinyasa yoga
• Ashtanga yoga
• Iyengar yoga
• Bikram yoga
• Hot yoga
• Yin yoga
• Restorative yoga
• Kundalini yoga
• Power yoga
• Sivananda yoga
• Jivamukti yoga
• Prenatal yoga
• Kids yoga
• Senior yoga
• Plus size yoga

Each of these styles offers a unique approach to yoga classes, catering to various preferences, abilities, and goals.

3. Find a yoga certification course

To teach yoga classes, you have to get certified. Many organizations offer the standard 200-hour yoga teacher training course. Look for programs accredited by reputable bodies like Yoga Alliance to ensure quality and recognition.

Whether you’re enrolling in person or opting for online yoga teacher training, ensure the curriculum covers key areas such as:

• teaching methodology
• yoga philosophy
• anatomy
• practical teaching experience

Online training programs have made this education more accessible, allowing for flexibility in learning.

4. Pass the exam

To become a certified yoga instructor, you’ll need to successfully complete your training program and pass any required exams. This usually involves written and practical assessments to demonstrate your understanding of yoga principles and your ability to teach.

Upon completion, you’ll be eligible to register with Yoga Alliance as a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT).

5. Find a yoga teaching job

Once you pass your certification, you have a lot of options for teaching jobs. You can lead classes on a specific yoga studio or offer classes in a fitness center. You could even offer workshops and yoga retreats.

Many instructors start by teaching part time, offering classes in community centers, or teaching through an online platform. Many yoga teachers are self-employed and start their own businesses.

The key to a successful career as a yoga instructor is to learn and grow continuously.