Most people who have practiced yoga have done so under the guidance of a yoga teacher in some capacity, whether participating in a group class at a yoga studio or doing yoga online or using an app. But have you ever wondered how the individual leading your class got there? You may be surprised to learn that you are actually not required to participate in formal training to become a yoga teacher. However, participating in yoga teacher training (YTT) provides individuals with a set of skills, knowledge, and experience that helps make them excellent, well-rounded yoga teachers.
About Registered Yoga Teachers
I recently became a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) after completing a 200-hour YTT with My Vinyasa Practice in 2020. RYTs are yoga teachers who are registered through the Yoga Alliance, “the largest non-profit organization representing the yoga community”. The Yoga Alliance fosters and supports “the high quality, safe, accessible, and equitable teaching of yoga.” In order to become an RYT, one must complete a training with a Registered Yoga School which must align with the Yoga Alliance’s standards and requirements. Yoga teachers study the following areas during the 200-hour training:
- Asana (yoga poses)
- Pranayama (breathing) and subtle bodies
- Meditation
- Anatomy and physiology
- History and philosophy of yoga
- Ethics of yoga
- Teaching methodology
- Professional development
After completing the training, Registered Yoga Teachers are required to complete a certain number of continuing education and teaching hours over a 3-year period in order to maintain the certification. And of course, we also have to pay an annual membership fee.
How to Find a Yoga Teacher
There are so many wonderful yoga teachers out there. When looking for a yoga teacher, in addition to learning more about their training, try to find one who aligns with your personal style and goals. Yoga Alliance has a page on their website where you can search for RYTs by geographic region, name, designation, or other keywords such as areas of interest (such as brain injury or accessible yoga).
As always, feel free to comment below or contact me with any questions or comments.