I thought it might be useful to go over what exactly is involved in a yoga teacher training program, for those you out there who might not know. In the US, Yoga Alliance, a national yoga education and support organization, sets minimum standards for yoga teacher training, to ensure that yoga teachers understand and value yoga’s history and traditions. Yoga Alliance advocates a 200-hour training program for new yoga teachers. Yoga schools and studios can apply to have their 200-hour programs approved by Yoga Alliance. If a student completes a Yoga Alliance-approved 200-hour training program, then she is eligible to register with Yoga Alliance as a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) and put fancy initials after her name. Yoga Alliance keeps a searchable database of both registered yoga schools and registered yoga teachers.
Although it’s possible to teach yoga without being registered with Yoga Alliance, it seemed like a really good idea to go through the process. First, if I choose a registered yoga school, then I know I’m getting a worthwhile education in yoga itself and in the teaching of yoga. After completing the program, I’ll have a really strong foundation for my future practice and teaching. Also, being able to register as a RYT means that I’ll have actual qualifications to show to prospective employers when I go looking for yoga teaching jobs. And, theoretically, I may make good connections through the program and through Yoga Alliance that will help me to work as a yoga teacher down the line.
So what’s involved with the 200-hour training program? Yoga Alliance standards including the following categories: 100 hours on yoga techniques/practice, 25 hours on teaching methodology, 20 hours on anatomy and physiology, 30 hours on yoga philosophy, lifestyle, and ethics. The rest of the time is spent on practicum (hands-on practice in teaching) and electives at the school’s discretion. East Eagle’s training program conforms to these standards.
So that’s what I’m in for! It’ll be a huge challenge, but I can’t wait to get started.
Rox Does Yoga 