Ashtanga Yoga is more than just a physical practice—it’s a spiritual journey that connects body, mind and soul. Born in Mysore, India and popularized by the legendary K. Pattabhi Jois, Ashtanga Yoga has gone global. Millions practice this yoga style worldwide and Ashtanga communities are found in almost every major city.
Meaning of Ashtanga Yoga
But what makes Ashtanga Yoga different? Unlike other yoga styles, Ashtanga has a set sequence of postures, called ashtanga vinyasa yoga, which is linked to the breath. This flowing movement builds strength and flexibility and takes you into a deep meditative state. The eight limbs of Ashtanga Yoga as described by Patanjali guide us towards a balanced life, from ethical behavior to ultimate self-realization.
The yoga industry is global and worth over $84 billion as of 2022 and Ashtanga Yoga is one of the most popular styles. If you love yoga and want to share its benefits with others, Ashtanga Yoga teacher training might be the way for you.
What is Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training?
Ashtanga Yoga teacher training is an intensive and transformative program that will teach you how to become a certified yoga instructor. Even if your aim is not to teach, rather practice yoga – these programs go deep into the physical, philosophical and spiritual aspects of yoga practice.
In a 200-hour Ashtanga Yoga teacher training, you will cover the primary series of postures, pranayama and meditation. For those who want to go deeper, 300-hour and 500-hour programs offer advanced training in more complex postures, teaching methodologies and yoga philosophy.
Global Certification
Completing an accredited Ashtanga Yoga teacher training program, like those recognized by Yoga Alliance, allows you to teach anywhere in the world. This certification proves you have the knowledge and ability to guide others in this challenging practice.
Program Duration
Most programs are designed to be completed in 4-12 weeks for full time students. But you can avail part-time options, in case you have some other commitments.
As per a 2023 Yoga Alliance survey, 60% of new yoga teachers said that completing a teacher training program improved their personal yoga practice and confidence. This training is not only for those who want to be yoga instructors, but also for practitioners who want to enrich their personal practice.
Why Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training?
Why should you do Ashtanga Yoga teacher training? The benefits can go beyond teaching, if you set the right intentions.
Personal Growth:
A recent study in the Journal of Yoga and Physical Therapy found that 75% of yoga practitioners experienced huge improvements in their physical and mental health after completing a teacher training program.
Similarly, the Ashtanga training will challenge you to grow not just physically but also mentally and spiritually. You will develop discipline, patience and an inner connection to your yoga practice which can be seen into other areas of your life.
Professional Development:
The demand for qualified yoga instructors is global and growing, the yoga industry is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.6% from 2022 to 2027. As a certified Ashtanga Yoga teacher you will have many career opportunities, from holding yoga classes at studios and gyms to imparting yoga knowledge via in-person or online sessions.
Enhanced Practice:
Even if teaching isn’t your goal, this training will take your yoga practice to new levels. You will understand each yoga asana better, learn advanced techniques and philosophical aspects of yoga. This will enrich your overall learning and you’ll benefit from the yogic lifestyle.
Community Connection:
Joining an Ashtanga Yoga teacher training course will connect you with a global community of like-minded people. The friendships and networks you build will prove instrumental for your yoga journey.
The Eight Limbs of Ashtanga Yoga
At the heart of Ashtanga Yoga are the eight limbs (Ashtanga means “eight-limbed” in Sanskrit). These form the path to spiritual growth and self-realization. The limbs, as outlined by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras, are the guide to living a meaningful and purposeful life. So if you want to start an Ashtanga Yoga teacher training, it would be essential for you to understand these eight principles.
- Yama (Moral Disciplines):
The first limb is about ethical guidelines and how we interact with the world. The five Yamas are:- Ahimsa (non-violence)
- Satya (truthfulness)
- Asteya (non-stealing)
- Brahmacharya (celibacy or moderation)
- Aparigraha (non-possessiveness)
- Niyama (Observances): These are the practices related to self-discipline and spiritual observances. The five Niyamas are:
- Saucha (cleanliness)
- Santosha (contentment)
- Tapas (austerity)
- Svadhyaya (self-study)
- Ishvara Pranidhana (surrender to a higher power)
- Asana (Postures): The physical postures in Ashtanga Yoga are meant to cleanse the body and build the strength and endurance needed for long periods of meditation.
- Pranayama (Breath Control): Pranayama is the practice of controlling your breath, which helps manage the life force energy (prana) in your body. Common techniques in Ashtanga Yoga include Ujjayi and Nadi Shodhana.
- Pratyahara (Withdrawal of the Senses): This principle asks to pull your senses away from the outside world, so you can focus on your inner self and avoid distractions.
- Dharana (Concentration): Dharana is the practice of focusing your mind on a single point, like an object, sound, or your breath. This helps prepare your mind for meditation.
- Dhyana (Meditation): Dhyana refers to focusing your mind steadily on one thing. This further leads to deep meditation where your mind is completely absorbed in that focus.
- Samadhi (Union): Samadhi is the final limb in Ashtanga Yoga. It’s a state of complete peace and happiness, where you feel connected to a higher power and become one with the universe.
When you incorporate the eight limbs into your Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga practice, you will deepen your practice and enrich your teaching by having a holistic approach to yoga that goes beyond the physical postures.
Curriculum Overview
What will you learn in an Ashtanga Yoga teacher training? The comprehensive curriculum covers all aspects of the practice so you are well prepared to teach.
- Yoga Philosophy: You will study the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, the foundational text that outlines the philosophy behind Ashtanga Yoga. It would be essential for you to understand these principles as they form the basis for the practice’s ethical and spiritual dimensions. You will also learn the eight limbs of yoga which guide practitioners to a balanced and fulfilled life.
- Anatomy and Physiology: A good understanding of functional anatomy is essential for teaching yoga safely and effectively. You will learn about the musculoskeletal system, the mechanics of movement and how to prevent injuries. This knowledge will help you to give safe adjustments and modifications for all levels of students.
- Asana Practice: The heart of this style lies in practicing yoga. You will work through the primary series, learning the correct alignment, sequencing and transitions for each posture. Advanced programs may also cover the intermediate and advanced series. According to a study by Yoga Journal, 80% of practitioners reported that learning proper alignment and sequencing during teacher training significantly improved their yoga practice.
- Pranayama and Meditation: Breath control and meditation practice are key components of Ashtanga Yoga. You will practice various pranayama techniques such as Ujjayi (victorious breath) and Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing) and learn how to integrate these into your teaching. You’ll also learn meditation practices, such as mindfulness and concentration techniques.
- Teaching Techniques: Finally, you will learn how to be a good yoga teacher. This includes creating a supportive environment, communicating effectively and guiding students through their self-practice. You will practice giving verbal cues, demonstrating postures and giving hands on adjustments.
Types of Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training
There are several types of Ashtanga Yoga teacher training programs to suit different needs and levels of experience.
- 200-Hour Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training: This foundation program is for beginners or those who want to enrich their practice. It covers the basics of Ashtanga Yoga, primary series, yoga philosophy and introductory teaching techniques. Upon completion you will be eligible to register with Yoga Alliance as a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-200).
- 300-Hour Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training: If you have already completed a 200-hour program this advanced training will take your skills to the next level. It covers more complex postures, advanced anatomy and in-depth teaching methodologies. Graduates of this program can register as RYT-500 with Yoga Alliance.
- 500-Hour Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training: This all-inclusive program merges the 200-hour and 300-hour courses into one intensive training. It’s ideal for those who want to have in-depth knowledge of practicing Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga. Graduates are well-regarded in the yoga community and are qualified to lead advanced classes and workshops.
- Online Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training: With the rise of e-learning many schools now offer online yoga teacher training programs. These programs provide the flexibility to study at your own pace making them ideal for those with busy schedules or limited access to in-person training. Despite being online, these programs are just as rigorous as their in-person counterparts.
How to Choose the Right Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training
With so many options, how do you choose the right yoga teacher training for the Ashtanga Vinyasa style? You can consider the following key factors:
- Reputation and Accreditation: Make sure the program is accredited by a recognized organization like Yoga Alliance. This accreditation means the training meets high standards and your certification will be recognized worldwide.
- Instructor Experience: The quality of your training depends on the instructors. Look for programs led by experienced Ashtanga Yoga teachers who have in-depth knowledge of the practice. Try checking out testimonials and reviews from past students to get a sense of the instructor’s teaching style and effectiveness.
- Location and Format: Do you prefer in-person training or an online program? In-person trainings offer an immersive experience often in beautiful retreat settings while online programs offer flexibility and convenience.
- Cost and Duration: Teacher training programs vary in price and length. An offline 200-hour program typically costs between $2,000 and $5,000 depending on the location and school. Consider your budget and schedule when choosing a program but also remember this is an investment in your future.
What to Expect During Your Training
What will your daily life be like during Ashtanga Yoga teacher training? Here’s what you can expect:
- Daily Schedule: Most programs follow a rigorous schedule, starting early in the morning with meditation and ashtanga practice. The rest of the day is spent on lectures on yoga philosophy, anatomy, teaching techniques and demo teaching sessions. You can expect long days of learning, practice and reflection. According to surveys, 70% of trainees found the daily schedule to be challenging but rewarding.
- Intensive Practice: Ashtanga Yoga is known for its tough sequences and teacher training will push you to your limits. You’ll practice the primary series daily, refining your alignment and technique under the guidance of experienced instructors. This intensity is necessary to develop the discipline and focus to instruct other students.
- Community: You’ll be part of a small group of fellow trainees, who share the same passion for yoga. This supportive environment creates deep connections and lifelong friendships. A 2022 survey found that 85% of yoga teacher training graduates stay in touch with their peers, proof of the bonds formed during the program.
Continuing Education and Workshops
Continuing education is crucial for Ashtanga yoga teachers to remain effective in their teaching. Attending workshops and specialized training teaches you various techniques and therapeutic benefits of these yoga styles. This will deepen your understanding of key areas for being a good yoga teacher.
These learning opportunities are offered by respected educators and organizations in the yoga community. Engaging with these resources will enhance your teaching skills. Also, it supports your personal growth and helps you build a strong network with other teachers and practitioners.
Career Opportunities After Certification
After the yoga teacher training certification, the career opportunities for Ashtanga Yoga teachers are vast and fulfilling. Here are some options to consider:
- Yoga Instructor: You can take Ashtanga Yoga classes at studios, gyms or wellness centers. The demand for yoga instructors is growing with over 36 million yoga practitioners in the U.S. alone in 2022. With your certification, you’ll be well placed to meet this demand.
- Private Yoga Teacher: You can offer one-on-one sessions to clients who want to study Ashtanga yoga but prefer personalized instruction. This is a great way to tailor your teaching to individual needs and build strong client relationships. Private sessions are especially popular with people who have specific goals or injuries that need extra care and attention.
- Online Yoga Teacher: You can create online courses, host virtual classes or start a YouTube channel to reach a global audience. The online fitness market is expected to reach $59.23 billion by 2027 so there’s a huge potential for those who are tech savvy.
- Yoga Retreat Leader: Organize and lead yoga retreats in beautiful locations around the world. This allows you to combine teaching with travel and offer students an immersive Ashtanga Yoga experience. Retreats are becoming more and more popular with the global wellness tourism market projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.5% from 2021 to 2028.
Authorized vs Certified Ashtanga Yoga Teachers
Authorized Ashtanga yoga teachers hold a higher status than certified teachers. This prestigious authorization is granted by the K. Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute (KPJAYI) and involves a long and rigorous process. It often requires several trips to India for training and evaluation over many years.
Certification, on the other hand, is easier to obtain and focuses more on personal growth rather than being overseen by an authority. Certified teachers are qualified to teach both the primary series as well as the intermediate series of Ashtanga yoga. It offers them broader teaching opportunities.
Authorization Process
To become an authorized Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga teacher, you need to follow the process set by KPJAYI. You’ll need to visit India for training and assessments under the guidance of Sharath Jois.
The process to become an authorized teacher is very selective and prestigious, so only the most dedicated and skilled practitioners get this recognition.
Certification Process
The process to become a certified ashtanga yoga teacher is thorough and demanding but has been designed to accommodate a wider range of candidates. The focus on developing your teaching skills and personal growth allows those who may find frequent trips to India logistically or financially challenging.
Individuals who become certified are equipped with the skills to teach students the foundational practices of the primary series and have the knowledge to guide them through the intermediate series in Ashtanga yoga.
The Bottom Line
Ashtanga Yoga teacher training is more than a course – it’s a journey that enriches your yoga practice, broadens your knowledge and opens up new career opportunities. Whether you want to teach or just get better at your practice, this training is the path to mastery of one of the most respected and challenging forms of yoga.
The yoga industry is growing and the demand for qualified instructors is increasing so now is the time to invest in yourself. Ashtanga Yoga teacher training gives you the tools, knowledge and confidence to share this powerful practice with others and deepen your own journey to self.
Enroll Into Our Yoga Teacher Training Program Now!
Ready to take the next step? Apply for an Ashtanga Yoga teacher training today and start changing your practice – and your life.
Apply for Ashtanga Yoga teacher training now and join a global community of serious practitioners and teachers. Whether you choose 200 hours, 300 hours or online you’ll be investing in yourself for the long term.