Yoga Instructor Training

Yoga integrates the mind, body and spirit to increase health, reduce stress and enhance well-being. In addition to yoga poses and general teaching instruction, a good yoga instructor training program should also teach you the philosophy of yoga and basic anatomy and physiology.

  1. Introductory Classes

    • Most programs offer a Level 1 introductory class. This will teach you the basic poses and how to put them together for a class. This is a good way to get to know your subject without the financial commitment of a full training.

    On-Location Versus Online

    • Yoga instructor training is available in person and online. Benefits of in-person instruction include physical interaction with instructors, intensive one- to three-month immersion programs and possibly exotic locations. Benefits of online education include at-your-own-pace learning, cheaper tuition/travel costs and no need to drop out of your current life or career to learn a new skill.

    Cerfication vs Registration

    • Whether you are a "certified" or "registered" yoga instructor depends on the organization to which you apply. Yoga Alliance has set the standards of educational requirements for yoga instructors, and registration with them indicates that you have met their minimum standards. A good training program should offer you the ability to complete registration with Yoga Alliance as a 200-hour or 500-hour RYT (Registered Yoga Trainer). However, if you go through American Fitness Professionals and Associates Yoga Instructor Program, they offer certification. In the end it is semantics.