Did you know the global online education market is expected to reach $319.167 billion by 2025, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 9.23% from 2020? This isn’t limited to academic courses; it’s extending to specialized fields like yoga teacher training. With online learning on the rise, the question arises: “Is online yoga teacher training legit?” and “Is online yoga teacher training valid?”
As an institution that’s been in the yoga education space for over 11 years and worked with the best yoga instructors from India, the land of yoga’s origin, we feel we should address these concerns.
Siddhi Yoga, our online yoga school, is recognized by Yoga Alliance and our instructors are certified by this well-known body. Let’s get into the legitimacy of online yoga teacher training and how to know if an online yoga school is right for you.
What is Online Yoga Teacher Training?
Online yoga teacher training is a program to learn the principles and practices of yoga through digital platforms. Unlike in-person classes, online training allows you to learn from the comfort of your home. These programs can include live classes, pre-recorded videos, interactive modules, and even hybrid models combining online and in-person elements.
Advantages of Online Yoga Teacher Training
Flexibility and Convenience
One of the biggest benefits of online yoga teacher training is flexibility. You can study and practice at your own pace; fit it into your busy schedule. Whether you’re a full-time professional, a parent, or living in a remote area, online training makes it possible to pursue your passion without upending your life. According to Bay Atlantic University, 63% of students enrolled in at least one online course in 2019 cited flexibility as the reason for their choice.
Accessibility
Online training makes yoga accessible to everyone, no matter where you are in the world. You can learn from the best instructors in India and other parts of the world without traveling. A survey by Babson Survey Research Group found that over 30% of higher education students in the U.S. are taking at least one distance education course.
Cost-Effectiveness
Online courses are often cheaper than in-person training. You save on travel, accommodation, and other expenses associated with attending physical classes. Online courses can be up to 50% cheaper than traditional in-person courses (Source: Education Data Initiative).
Variety of Teaching Styles
With online training, you can access many teaching styles and philosophies. This diversity will enrich your learning and broaden your understanding of yoga. For example, you might find instructors who specialize in different branches of yoga like Hatha, Vinyasa, or Ashtanga, giving you a more comprehensive education.
Self-Paced Learning
Online programs often allow you to learn at your own pace. If you need more time to master a particular asana or concept, you can take it without the pressure of keeping up with a class. This is especially useful for complex poses or concepts that require deep understanding and practice.
Drawbacks of Online Yoga Teacher Training
No In-Person Adjustments
One of the downsides is the lack of physical adjustments and immediate feedback from instructors. This can be a big drawback if you rely heavily on hands-on guidance. While some programs offer live sessions where instructors can provide real-time feedback, it’s not the same as the physical adjustments you would get in an in-person class.
Distractions
Studying at home can come with distractions. It requires a high level of discipline and commitment to stay focused. According to some studies, students reported higher levels of distraction while studying online compared to traditional classroom settings. Setting up a dedicated study space can help with this.
Sense of Community
While many online programs offer forums and group chats, it’s not the same as building relationships in person. The sense of community may feel less real online. But some programs have found ways to create community through virtual meetups, social media groups and interactive assignments that require collaboration.
Technical Issues
Reliable internet access is a must for online training. Technical problems can interrupt your learning. This can be especially frustrating during live sessions or exams. Make sure you have a stable internet connection and a backup plan to avoid these headaches.
How to Check if an Online Yoga Teacher Training is Legit
To check if an online yoga teacher training is legit, consider the following:
Accreditation and Certification
Make sure the program is accredited by a recognized body like Yoga Alliance. This certification adds an extra layer of credibility and ensures the program meets certain standards. Yoga Alliance has over 7,400 Registered Yoga Schools (RYS) and over 80,700 Registered Yoga Teachers (RYT) worldwide.
Instructor Qualifications
Research the instructors’ background. Are they experienced? Do they have credible certifications? Siddhi Yoga for example, has the best yoga instructors from India, all certified by Yoga Alliance. The qualifications and experience of instructors are key to a good education.
Reviews and Testimonials
Look for reviews and testimonials from past students. Real feedback will give you an idea of the program’s quality. According to BrightLocal, 82% of consumers read online reviews for local businesses, 91% of 18-34-year-olds trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations (Source: BrightLocal).
Comprehensive Curriculum
A good program should have a complete curriculum covering all aspects of yoga, philosophy, anatomy, asanas, pranayama, and teaching methodology. So you’re well equipped to teach yoga and understand the deeper aspects of it.
Support and Mentorship
Check if the program offers support and mentorship. Having access to experienced instructors for guidance and questions is priceless. This support can come in the form of one-on-one sessions, group meetings, or access to a mentor throughout the course.
Transparency
The institution should be transparent about the course structure, expectations, and requirements. You should know what you’re getting into. This includes the syllabus, exam structure, certification process, and any additional costs.
Success Stories and Testimonials
Make sure to check for the testimonials shared by previously enrolled trainees. You can find these on the institution’s website or even on some online directories.
Siddhi Yoga has many success stories from our students who completed the training online. Here are a few:
“I was skeptical about online yoga teacher training, but this program surpassed my expectations. The instructors were super knowledgeable, and I felt supported throughout my journey.” Sarah, USA
“The online program allowed me to balance my job and studies. I now teach yoga confidently thanks to the comprehensive curriculum and guidance.” Priya, India
How to make the most of online yoga teacher training
Create a Dedicated Space
Set up a space for your practice and study, free from distractions. This will help you stay focused and committed. Having a routine and a dedicated space helps in building and maintaining good habits, which is key to online learning success.
Create a Routine
Set a schedule for your studies and practice. This discipline will help you progress daily. It’s easy to let life get in the way, but having a schedule ensures you make time for your training every day.
Get Involved with the Community
Participate in online forums, group discussions, and live sessions. Connecting with fellow students will enhance your learning. Engaging with peers will give you different perspectives and support.
Ask for Extra Support
Don’t be afraid to reach out to instructors for extra guidance. Extra mentorship can be super helpful. If you’re struggling with a concept or a pose, your instructors are there to help you.
Practice Daily
Apply what you learn daily. Daily practice will help solidify new knowledge and skills. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become in your abilities.
Bottom Line
Online yoga teacher training is not only real but also a great way to deepen your practice and become a certified teacher. By choosing a registered program (like those with Yoga Alliance) and doing your research, you can ensure a valuable and meaningful learning experience.
According to some surveys, 74% of yoga practitioners and enthusiasts refer to online resources to boost their learning and yoga practice. This has resulted in online learning becoming more and more accepted in the yoga world (Source: Yoga Alliance).
Get Started
Ready to become a yoga teacher? Check out our online yoga teacher training programs today and join a community of like-minded yogis from around the world. Visit our website to learn more and start now!
