Are Yoga Teacher Classes Right For You?

You may think that yoga teacher classes are only for those people who have studied the practice for many years and can do every advanced yoga posture. In reality, people with all levels of experience and backgrounds decide to get their yoga instructor certification every year! Even if you don't plan to become a yoga teacher, a training course will expand your knowledge base and give you additional insight into yoga's history, philosophy and postures, as well as a deeper understanding of anatomy, alignment and breathing techniques.

Yoga Alliance Certification

There are many things to consider before signing up for yoga teacher classes. First, if you are taking courses in the United States, make sure that your training program is recognized by the Yoga Alliance, a nonprofit organization that supports the study and teaching of yoga. They have a strict set of guidelines that outline the requirements for 200 and 500-hour yoga training programs, and most yoga studios require that their instructors be certified by the Yoga Alliance.

Yoga Teacher Training Time and Cost Considerations

Second, understand that yoga teacher classes are a serious time and financial commitment. Many yoga centers provide two options for completing the 200 hours required for certification: an intensive program that meets daily over the course of a month or two, or an extended program that meets weekly or bi-weekly over the course of several months to a year. The intensive program format is perfect for those who are transitioning jobs or visiting from out of town, while the extended format is great for those who work day jobs or have obligations that prevent them from doing the intensive. With either course format, students are required to complete 200 full hours of training before they can receive certification. The cost of yoga teacher training varies by school, but is typically $3,000 or more for the 200-hour certification. Some schools offer financial aid or scholarships to a select number of students who meet specific requirements.

Finding the Right Yoga Instructors

Finally, make sure that you get to know the instructors who will be teaching your courses. You'll be spending a lot of time under the direction of these yoga professionals, and it's important that you will be comfortable and confident during your training program. Remember that what you learn during ishtayoga.com/teacher_training yoga teacher classes will include more than just exercise or memorization. The training process is a journey of the mind, body and spirit!

Mariellen Brown is a New York City-based designer and writer. She is currently taking yoga teacher classes to receive her 200-hour yoga certification from ishtayoga.com ISHTA Yoga in NYC.