What to Know Before Yoga Teacher Training?

Do you know that Yoga originated in India 5000 years ago? It’s been many years since its initiation around the globe, encouraging individuals to balance their mind, body, and soul. However, Yoga Teacher Training came into existence only during the 20th century when – 

1. T. Krishnamacharya taught modern yoga education from the 1930s-1950s to famous students like B.K.S. Iyengar and Pattabhi Jois, who later developed structured Yoga training systems.
2. The Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers introduced the first 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training programs in the 1970s. 
3. Finally, in 1999, Yoga Alliance was founded. It is a nonprofit organization that sets standards for yoga teacher training and certifies yoga professionals.

What to Know Before Yoga Teacher Training?

Well, a lot of you might think Yoga Teacher Training is only about learning to teach. But it is so much more. It comes with early morning practices, breakthroughs, deep inner work, meeting new people, and learning about yourself.

Now, let us begin this blog by walking you through what to know before yoga teacher training

Why is Yoga Teacher Training Right for You?

Before you dedicate yourself to yoga teacher training, it’s important to know why you are doing it. Are you doing it for personal growth or a professional path? YTT is a certification program for aspiring yoga teachers, health enthusiasts, or anyone who wishes to do it. Your intention shapes your experience to choose the right program and approach it with the right mindset.

1. For Improved Health & Well-being – The YTT program is good for improving your overall physical and mental well-being. You will experience a strengthened body, better flexibility, and a balanced mind. 
2. For a Career in Yoga – If you are looking to build a career in yoga, teacher training is best for you. It will help you learn how to guide others, improve your practice, and upgrade your yoga knowledge.  
3. For Spiritual Philosophers – It is best for spiritual seekers, who are looking to know yoga beyond the physical practice. YTT will help you lean into the profound spiritual truths and learnings of yoga. 

What to Look for in a Yoga Teacher Training Program?

One of the big decisions you will make is selecting the right yoga teacher training program. It will define your learning experience, teaching style, and intended path. Since there are many options available, it is important to choose a program that aligns best with your goals, preferences, and lifestyle.

Types of Yoga Teacher Training Programs –

200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training – It is a basic YTT certification for beginners that covers yoga philosophy, anatomy, teaching methodology, and sequencing.

300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training – This is an advanced training program for those who have completed a 200-hour YTT and want to uplevel their knowledge.  

500-Hour Yoga Teacher Training – An advanced training program combining 200-hour and 300-hour programs, offering a comprehensive curriculum for those seeking mastery. Programs like the Siddhi Yoga Multi-Style TTC course provide proper training across various yoga styles, helping the teachers to refine their skills and upgrade their practice.

These are the main types of yoga programs. You can also check out unique options for online courses from Siddhi Yoga.

Yoga Styles – Pick Which Aligns With You 

Not every YTT program focuses on the same style of yoga, so it is your job to pick the one that resonates with your requirements.

• Hatha Yoga – It is a slow-paced, fundamental practice that is great for beginners.
• Vinyasa Yoga – It is a dynamic, flowing yoga that has sequences in sync with breath.
• Ashtanga Yoga – This is a diligent and structured practice with set sequenced poses.
• Yin Yoga – It is a meditative practice of deep stretches held for a longer time period.

Types of Yoga Schools

With several yoga schools, you will find schools with different teaching approaches, specializations, and philosophies. Some schools focus on ancient yogic teachings, some on contemporary yoga styles, and some on multi-style yoga training programs. It is your take which one you would like to pick.  

Background of the Yoga School

Before choosing a yoga school, it is also essential that you research the reputation of the yoga school. For ex:

1. For how many years have they been in the industry?
2. What are their teaching modules and study curriculum? 
3. Do they provide quality training? 
4. What are their online reviews from past students?
5. With whom is the school accredited?
6. What are the yoga styles and types of course programs offered by them?
7. What is the background of the teachers associated with them and their specialized experience? 

Type of Training Format

There are 3 types of training formats available –

1. Offline – In offline training, you will be physically present and get hands-on learning, feedback, and present-moment experiences. 
2. Online – In online training, you can learn from anywhere at your own pace. It has live sessions, pre-recorded videos, and doubt sessions with your teachers. 
3. Hybrid – It is a mix of both online and offline training, where you get structured learning with flexibility. 

Success Ratio – 

You can even get in touch with the alumni of the yoga schools and know their experience. For example, ask them how they felt during the course, what they are doing after course completion, and if the school provided them with post-training support or job placements.  

Time Commitment

Yoga teacher training is a time investment, so choose a format that fits your lifestyle. There are two main options:

Full-time programs – These are intensive programs conducted straight for multiple weeks. You can choose this if you want to complete your training quickly.

Weekend programs – These are weekend-based programs that continue for several months. You can enroll in this program if you have to manage other life responsibilities, as this training takes place on specific days.

Importance of Accreditation & Its Types

An accreditation certifies that a Yoga Teacher Training (YTT) program meets the recognized standards of quality, safety, and authenticity. It verifies your credibility as a teacher and brings employment opportunities.

Types of Accreditation in YTT

1. Yoga Alliance (YA) Certification is the most globally recognized accreditation offering RYT 200, 300, and 500 credentials.
2. The International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT) focuses on yoga therapy training with medical and therapeutic applications.
3. Traditional Lineage Accreditation – These certifications are from schools like Iyengar, Ashtanga, or Sivananda that focus on guru-disciple teachings.
4. Government-Approved Accreditation – In India, government-recognized yoga certifications are provided by the Ministry of Ayush, Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, Kaivalyadhama Yoga Institute, Maharashtra, Bihar School of Yoga, Munger, University of Patanjali, Haridwar, and many more.

Expectations at Every Level

1. Physical Level 

• Building Perseverance – You will build strength and stamina physically, as YTT involves hours of own practice daily.
• Flexibility is Unimportant – It is not important to be flexible, but if you have good mobility, it helps a lot.
• Injury Awareness – It is important to prioritize safe movement and listen to your body to prevent unnecessary strain.

2. Mental Level 

• Information Overload – Since YTT covers anatomy, philosophy, sequencing, and so much more, getting an information overload is natural. It will be overwhelming for you, but you can process it slowly.
• Create Discipline – You will have to be disciplined, as consistent personal practice, studying, and teaching require mental devotion.
• Let Go of Perfectionism – Do not expect yourself to know everything at once. It is not possible because perfection is a cage. 

3. Emotional Level 

• Self-Reflect – The YTT program will bring you emotional breakthroughs and personal growth. So, be ready to experience all that comes with it.
• Connection – You will meet many like-minded people, so expect to develop strong bonds with your fellow learners.
• Balance with Self-Care – As a teacher, it will be important for you to be emotionally present, so always recharge yourself with self-care.
• Spiritual Growth – You may possibly experience a strong connection with your internal world through mindfulness, breathwork, and yogic philosophy.

4. Financial Level 

• TTC Costs – Apart from the course fee, your tuition fees, study materials, books, yoga props, and travel expenses will be an add-on financial cost.
• Hidden Expenses – Every curriculum comes with hidden costs like living expenses, additional workshops, and meals. So, keep yourself ready for surprise expenses as well.
• Investment – Certainly, teaching yoga is an investment in itself. So, do not rush the process, give yourself time, work hard with dedication, and watch your return on investment pay off.
• Scholarships & Payment Plans – Some schools provide scholarships or donation-based payment plans, so you can opt for it in case of financial aid. 

What to Expect During Training

Life is uncertain. But don’t let your YTT journey be one. Knowing what to expect can help you adapt to the process openly and with confidence. To learn more about it, you can check out our blog on what to expect in 200 hour yoga teacher training.

The Reality of the Yoga Industry

Before getting into the yoga industry, you must understand its realities. Teaching yoga can be rewarding if you pursue it with devotion.

These are some ways through which you can earn – 

✔ Studio Classes – Some studios will pay you on a class basis, while others pay based on student attendance.

✔ Multiple income streams – You can take private clients sessions, workshops, corporate yoga classes, online teaching, and retreats to increase earnings and create financial stability.

✔ Build a personal brand – Building your social media presence, networking, and personal marketing will help you attract more students and opportunities.

✔ Self-employment prices – Yoga teaching is not a traditional job, so you may have to handle your taxes and insurance.

A Few Additional Know Hows

These reminders will help your yoga journey be smooth and fulfilling.

• You will learn about Sanskrit terms naturally with time.
• You don’t have to master every pose.
• You don’t need to look or feel a certain way. You are complete as you are. 
• Everything will be new – places, people, knowledge, lifestyle or situation. Practice patience rather than judging. 
• Be active in the industry by engaging in yoga trends, yoga class marketing, visiting yoga studios, and business strategies.
• No one gets rich instantly. Keep building to stay for long-term prosperity. 
• Saying “No” is healthy and makes you stronger. 

Conclusion 

Now that you know what to look for in yoga teacher training, you can pick the right program for you and begin your journey. 

A strong foundation is essential and you can build one with Siddhi Yoga’s TTC programs, which prepares you to be a certified yoga teacher and start teaching yoga.

Yoga is a lifelong path to teach, evolve, and inspire, so keep sharing your light!