Yes, you can do yoga teacher training as a beginner in this discipline. YTT is not reserved for very experienced yogi. But as you lack experience you may have uncertainty about that assertion – and it’s perfectly normal. Let us clear them up for you.Â
What is Yoga teacher training?
If you don’t mind, we’d like to reframe for you what exactly this particular training stands for.
Yoga teacher training, rather called YTT, is a program that helps you become a certified yoga instructor. These training classes typically range from 200 to 500 hours and cover topics like yoga philosophy, anatomy, teaching methods, and more. When you finish, you’ll get a yoga certification that allows you to teach yoga professionally.
Can you do Yoga teacher training as a beginner?
Absolutely, you can start yoga teacher training as a beginner! But remember, not all YTT programs are the same. Some require you to have yoga experience, while others welcome complete beginners. If you’re new to yoga, find a teacher training course that caters specifically to beginner yoga students.
For example, Diya Yoga’s Yoga teacher training is designed to take you from no yoga knowledge to ready to teach yoga. This yoga training covers the basics, including foundational poses (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), and meditation, giving you a solid foundation.
Online Yoga teacher training
Online yoga teacher training has become very popular in recent years. These programs let you complete your training from home, so you don’t have to travel. However, not all online YTT programs are the same. It’s important to do your research to make sure the program is high quality.
Many online YTT programs are Yoga Alliance certified. As you certainly know Yoga Alliance is the largest non-profit organization representing the yoga community. Their certification means the program has applied to meet certain standards, but it doesn’t guarantee quality. Talking to other yoga students and trainers can help you find a yoga teacher course that meets your expectations.
Even though online YTT is on the rise, at Diya Yoga, we believe in the importance of practicing yoga with physical interaction. We are convinced that this is the best way to keep you motivated and disciplined while fostering human connections that are integral to yogic philosophy.
200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training
The 200 hour yoga teacher training class is the most common and is often the minimum requirement to become a certified yoga instructor. This course covers the basics of yoga, including foundational poses, breathing techniques, meditation, anatomy, physiology, yoga philosophy, and teaching methods.
When choosing a 200 hour yoga teacher training, make sure it matches your learning goals. Programs can vary a lot, even those approved by Yoga Alliance. The content and quality of training depend a lot on the instructor and the school.
What does Yoga Teacher Training involve?
- Anatomy and Physiology: Learn about the human body and how yoga affects it.
- Yoga Philosophy: Explore the history of yoga and different schools of thought.
- Teaching Methodology: Understand how to sequence a class, cue poses, and provide adjustments.
- Practicum: Practice teaching yoga with guidance from experienced instructors.
- Business of Yoga: Learn about marketing, branding, and running a successful yoga studio.
- Ethics: Discover the ethical considerations, including creating a safe and inclusive environment.
- Self-Development: Engage in self-reflection and personal growth exercises to deepen your yoga practice.
- Community: Build a network of like-minded people passionate about yoga.
Choosing the best Yoga Teacher Training program
When picking a yoga teacher training program, whether online or in-person, consider these factors:
- Yoga Alliance Certification: This can show a commitment to certain standards.
- Instructor Experience: Look into the trainers’ backgrounds and experience.
- Curriculum: Ensure it covers all essential areas of yoga teacher training.
- Reviews and Testimonials: Talk to past students about their experiences.
- Flexibility: For online programs, check if the schedule and format fit your lifestyle.
Yoga teacher training can be a transformative journey, whether you’re a beginner yoga teacher or an experienced practitioner looking to deepen your practice. With the right training program, you’ll be well-equipped to become a registered yoga teacher and share the benefits of yoga with others.
Additional tips for choosing your YTT program as beginner
When looking for the best yoga teacher training courses, keep your experience level in mind. Beginner programs are designed to help new students, while advanced courses can further the knowledge of those with more experience.
Find a school that aligns with your personal and professional goals. Look for programs that offer free resources or introductory classes to get a feel for their teaching style. Keep track of your progress and practice regularly to make the most of your time in training.
Consider how the program will fit into your life, including the time commitment and financial investment. Some schools offer flexible schedules or online courses to better fit your lifestyle. Many programs also include training on the business side of yoga, helping you build a successful career after certification.
Connecting with other students and teachers can enrich your training experience. Building a community with your fellow trainees and instructors will provide support throughout your journey and beyond. Whether you choose an in-person or online yoga teacher training, the connections you make can last a lifetime.