Yoga teacher training (YTTC) can be a life-changing experience. Whether you're passionate about deepening your practice or aspiring to teach, understanding what to expect can help you prepare for the journey ahead. In this blog, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know, providing practical tips and insights to ease any anxiety you may have. As someone who has run yoga teacher trainings for over a decade, I understand the apprehensions that come with starting such an intense journey. So let’s dive in!
Why Choose a Yoga Teacher Training?
Before we get into the specifics, let’s address the question: why should you do a YTTC? For many, a yoga teacher training course is not just about learning to teach — it’s about deepening their practice, understanding yoga philosophy, and gaining insights into the mind-body connection. Others join to make a career out of their passion for yoga. Whatever your reason, one thing is clear: yoga teacher training is a transformative experience.
When considering whether or not to join a YTTC, it’s essential to ask yourself: Am I ready for this commitment, both mentally and physically? Knowing your personal “why” can help keep you focused during the more challenging parts of the course.
What to Expect from Your Yoga Teacher Training
The Structure of the Course
A standard yoga teacher training typically involves 200 hours, divided into modules. The topics range from anatomy, alignment, and adjustments to yogic philosophy and teaching methodologies. Be prepared for intensive learning, often with long days. Some days may start with an early morning practice and continue with workshops, discussions, and lectures into the evening.
Depending on the school or programme, these 200 hours may be spread across several weeks or packed into an intensive month-long experience. It’s important to check with the school you choose about how the training is structured.
2. Daily Practice
Your physical yoga practice will intensify during training. Whether it’s vinyasa, hatha, or ashtanga, you will practice asana (poses) every day, often for several hours. Many students find that this immersive experience significantly deepens their connection to their bodies. However, don’t expect this to be easy — it’s normal to feel both physically and mentally exhausted at times.
3. Yoga Philosophy
Beyond the physical postures, you’ll dive into yoga philosophy, including the Yama and Niyama (ethical guidelines), as well as more profound teachings such as the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. These teachings offer tools for personal growth and self-discipline that go beyond the mat, which can be both enlightening and challenging as you reflect on your life and values.
4. Anatomy and Alignment
A good YTTC will include in-depth training in anatomy. Don’t worry—you won’t need to memorise every bone and muscle. Instead, you’ll learn how the body works in relation to yoga postures, and how to safely guide your future students through their practice. This is a vital part of teacher training and will help you prevent injuries and offer modifications for students with specific needs.
5. Teaching Methodologies
You’ll start teaching as soon as the course begins. While the thought of guiding a class may feel overwhelming, the process is gradual. You’ll likely begin with small groups or partner work, slowly building confidence in your voice and ability to sequence a class. You will learn to adjust, modify, and assist students safely, gaining hands-on experience and invaluable feedback from your peers and instructors.
6. Emotional Growth and Community
One of the less-discussed aspects of yoga teacher training is the emotional journey it entails. Yoga brings up a lot of personal stuff, especially when we are practising so intensively. Expect to feel vulnerable at times, and know that this is entirely normal. YTTCs are also a great opportunity to build a community. Many students form lifelong friendships and support systems during their training.
How to Choose the Right Yoga Teacher Training
With so many options available, choosing the right YTTC can feel daunting. Here are some things to consider:
Accreditation and Certification - Ensure that the programme you choose is accredited by Yoga Alliance or another reputable body. This ensures that your certification will be recognised worldwide and meets certain standards.
Style of Yoga - Consider which style of yoga you resonate with most—hatha, vinyasa, ashtanga, etc. Choose a course that focuses on your preferred style or one that offers a comprehensive overview of multiple disciplines.
Location - Some people prefer to train locally, while others love the idea of a destination training. There’s something magical about immersing yourself in yoga in a place like India, Bali, or Costa Rica, but also keep in mind the logistical and financial implications.
InstructorsYour teachers will have a profound impact on your experience, so take the time to research them. What is their teaching style? Do they have a deep understanding of yoga philosophy as well as physical practice?
Practical Tips for Preparing for Your Yoga Teacher Training
1. Get Comfortable with a Consistent Practice - Before beginning your YTTC, it’s a good idea to establish a consistent yoga practice. While you don’t need to be an advanced practitioner, having a regular practice will prepare you for the physical and mental intensity of the course.
2. Take Notes and Be Organised - Bring a notebook! The amount of information you will receive can be overwhelming at times. Keeping organised notes will help you process everything. Some schools even allow you to record lectures, so ask in advance if this is an option.
3. Self-Care is Key - Your body and mind will need some downtime. Make sure to incorporate self-care into your routine during the course—whether it’s a soothing bath, meditation, or just taking a quiet walk. This will help you recharge and absorb the information better.
4. Be Open to Change - Yoga teacher training is a personal journey as much as it is a professional one. Be open to the emotional and mental growth that comes with it. Let go of the need for perfection and allow yourself to be a student, willing to learn and make mistakes.
Namaste!
Madhura Bhagwat
The Yoga Nerds Blog
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