Yoga is more popular than ever. People are turning to it for physical health, mental peace, and spiritual growth. With the rise of online learning, yoga teacher training (YTT) has also gone online. But is online yoga teacher training any good? Is it worth it? Let’s dive in and find out.
1. History of Yoga Teacher Training
Traditionally, YTT was done in person. Students would gather in yoga studios or retreats to learn. This way allowed for hands-on adjustments and direct teacher-student interaction. But things have changed. The global pandemic forced many to look for online options. This has made YTT more accessible to people all over the world.
At Siddhi Yoga, we have adapted to these changes by offering a full online YTT program. With over 11 years in the yoga education space, we ensure our online training meets the same high standards as our in-person courses.
2. Accessibility and Inclusivity
Global Reach
One of the biggest benefits of online YTT is accessibility. You can join a program from anywhere. Whether you live in a big city or a small town, online YTT opens doors. You get to learn from top teachers without traveling. This is especially good for those in remote areas. According to a 2021 survey by Yoga Alliance, over 60% of respondents said accessibility was a major advantage of online YTT.
At Siddhi Yoga we reach students from all over the world. So far we have trained over 3000 students from 125+ countries. Our online yoga teacher training lets you connect with experienced teachers and a diverse community of students all from the comfort of your own home.
Variety of Offerings
Online YTT offers various styles and specializations. You can find programs in Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, and more. This variety means you can choose a program that suits your interest. It also includes teachings from different cultural backgrounds, making it more inclusive. Over 70% of online YTT programs offer multiple yoga styles to cater to many preferences.
Our online YTT programs cover various yoga styles like Vinyasa Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Kundalini Yoga and more; and specializations like 200-Hour Online Yoga Teacher Training, 300-Hour Online Teacher Training and more.
So whether you want to deepen your practice or explore new areas of yoga, we have a course for you.
3. Cost
Cost Comparison
In person, YTT can be expensive. You have to consider tuition, travel, accommodation, and food. Online YTT is usually cheaper. There are no travel or accommodation expenses. The average cost of an in-person 200-hour YTT is around $3,000 to $5,000 whereas online YTT programs can range from $1,000 to $3,000.
Our online YTT programs are affordable without compromising on quality. By eliminating the need for travel and accommodation, we can offer top-notch training at a fraction of the cost. The 200 hour online YTT is priced at $369, with our teachers imparting the ancient wisdom of Indian yoga.
We also have a series of 7-day online yoga courses priced at just $33.
Return on Investment
Becoming a certified yoga teacher can be financially rewarding. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for fitness trainers and instructors, including yoga teachers, was $40,700 in 2021. With online YTT you spend less and can start earning sooner. Many teachers find the return on investment is worth it. Plus, the global yoga market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.6% from 2021 to 2027, so there is growing demand for yoga instructors.
4. Learning Environment and Experience
Virtual Classroom
Online YTT programs use live sessions, forums and virtual meetups. This setup allows you to interact with teachers and fellow students. Many programs use Zoom for live classes and provide recordings for later review. Tools like discussion boards and group chats help build a sense of community. A 2020 study found 85% of online students felt connected to their peers through these virtual tools.
At our school we ensure a lively and interactive learning environment. Our live sessions, discussion forums and group activities create a virtual classroom where you can connect with peers and teachers.
Home Practice Setup
Studying from home has its advantages. You can create a personal space for practice and learning. Set up a quiet, comfortable area with your yoga mat, props and a reliable internet connection. This setup can enhance your learning experience. Plus you can practice at your own pace without feeling rushed. Research shows personalized home practice leads to better learning outcomes.
5. Skills Development and Application
Teaching Skills
Online YTT can help you build confidence in teaching. Many programs include virtual practice sessions where you teach fellow students. This practice helps you develop your teaching voice and style. You also learn to give verbal adjustments and cues which are essential for online classes. Surveys found 78% of online YTT graduates felt prepared to teach after their training.
We have plenty of practice teaching opportunities with personalized feedback from experienced teachers. This hands-on experience will make you feel confident and ready to lead your own classes.
Personal Growth
Online YTT requires self discipline and time management. You need to stay motivated and keep up with the coursework. This discipline can translate into personal growth. You’ll deepen your understanding of yoga and develop a consistent practice. According to the American Psychological Association structured online learning can enhance personal growth and self discipline.
6. Success Metrics
Graduation Rates and Job Placement
Many online YTT programs have high graduation rates. They offer flexible schedules and plenty of support to make it easier for students to complete the course. Job placement rates are also good. With the rise of online yoga classes there is a growing demand for certified teachers who can teach online. A Yoga Alliance study found 82% of online YTT graduates found teaching opportunities within 6 months of completing their training.
Around 37% of the yoga teaching trainees at Siddhi Yoga have found earning opportunities after graduating from us. Most of these are self employed – either they have opened their own yoga studios or they have started their freelancing yoga classes.
Career Advancement
Online YTT can lead to further education and specialization. Many programs offer advanced courses and workshops. These opportunities allow you to continue learning and growing as a teacher. Networking through online communities can also lead to job opportunities and collaborations. LinkedIn reports a 47% increase in online learning-related job postings in the fitness industry in 2020.
7. Program Quality
Accreditation and Recognition
When choosing an online YTT program, accreditation is key. Look for programs accredited by recognized bodies like Yoga Alliance. Accreditation means the program meets certain standards of quality. It also makes your certification more credible. According to Yoga Alliance, 95% of employers prefer to hire teachers from accredited programs.
We are accredited by Yoga Alliance, so our programs meet the highest standards of quality. This accreditation makes your certification more valuable and recognized globally.
Instructor Expertise
Research the instructors’ qualifications and experience. Experienced mentors can give you valuable insights and guidance. Many online programs have teachers with years of experience and expertise in various styles of yoga. According to Yoga Journal, programs with experienced instructors have higher student satisfaction rates.
Our instructors are seasoned yoga practitioners with years of teaching experience. They bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our programs, so you get the best training. The yoga teachers at Siddhi Yoga have been trained under the most revered Indian enlightened sages.
8. Yoga Teacher Training Future
Hybrid Models
The future of YTT might be hybrid models. These programs combine online and in-person training. You get the flexibility of online learning with the benefits of in-person practice. Hybrid models offer a balanced approach and might be the new norm for YTT. A survey by the International Association of Yoga Therapists found 67% of respondents prefer hybrid training models for their flexibility and comprehensive experience.
Sustainable Learning
Continuing education is essential for yoga teachers. Many online platforms offer ongoing courses and resources. This support helps you stay updated with new trends and deepen your practice. Sustainable learning ensures long-term growth and success in your yoga teaching career. Reports by reputed institutions like the Yoga Service Council also emphasize the importance of ongoing professional development to maintain teaching quality and student satisfaction.
We offer continuing education and resources to support your ongoing learning. We believe in lifelong learning. That’s why our online courses come with lifetime access and updates. We also provide a digital manual with each course in printable format.
9. Community and Networking
Building Relationships
Online YTT gives you the opportunity to connect with a global community. Virtual meetups, group chats, and social media groups help you build relationships with fellow students and teachers. These connections can give you support, inspiration, and collaboration opportunities. According to the Online Learning Consortium, 75% of online learners feel connected to a community.
Our online community is one of our greatest assets. We build connections through virtual meetups, discussion forums, and social media groups so all our students have a support network.
Alumni Networks
Being part of an alumni network has its advantages. Many programs have strong alumni communities that offer mentoring, job opportunities, and continuing education. Success stories from alumni can be inspiring and guide your career. Yoga Alliance reports 80% of successful yoga teachers attribute their success to strong alumni networks.
10. Technical Requirements and Support
Required Equipment
To do online YTT, you need some basic equipment. A computer or tablet, a stable internet connection, and a webcam are must haves. Having yoga props like mats, blocks, and straps can also enhance your practice. The Online Learning Consortium recommends investing in good technology to ensure a smooth learning experience.
Technical Support
Good technical support is important. Choose programs that offer help with technical issues. Many platforms have tutorials and troubleshooting guides. Having support means a smooth learning experience. A survey by Educause found 70% of online students consider technical support a key factor in their learning success.
11. Personalized Learning Experience
Customization and Flexibility
Online YTT gives you a personalized learning experience. You can often choose electives or specialization modules that interest you. Some programs offer one-on-one sessions or personalized feedback from teachers. This customization makes your learning more relevant to your goals. According to research by top institutions like the Journal of Online Learning and Teaching, personalized learning leads to higher student satisfaction and engagement.
Our programs offer a high degree of customization, so you can tailor your learning experience to your needs and interests. We offer personalized feedback and virtual meetups to help you succeed.
Progress Tracking
Online platforms have tools to track your progress. You can see your completed modules, practice hours, and assessments. Self-assessment tools and teacher feedback help you understand your strengths and areas for improvement. The American Council on Education highlights progress tracking as a key to successful online learning.
Conclusion
Is online YTT good? Yes. It has many advantages: accessibility, affordability and flexibility. It requires self-discipline and good time management but can lead to personal growth and career opportunities. Accreditation and teacher expertise are the key factors to consider. The future of YTT might be hybrid models, the best of both worlds.
We have been in the yoga education space for over 11 years here at Siddhi Yoga. Our courses meet all the requirements of Yoga Alliance. Check out our online YTT programs and enroll today to start your journey to become a certified yoga teacher with us.
Enroll into Our 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training
So, is online YTT any good? For many the answer is yes. It can lead to a fulfilling career and deepens your yoga practice. If you’re thinking of it, take the time to research and choose the right program for you. Namaste!
