Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Yoga Certification for You
Are you ready to take your yoga journey to the next level and become a certified yoga teacher? Trying to decide which certification is right for you can be hard to figure out, especially with all the different types of certifications. There are online courses, international immersions, and local yoga teacher trainings.
In this guide we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of what to consider when choosing the right yoga certification for you.
TLDR
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The 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Certification
What is it?
This is the most common type of training that most people do as their first certification in yoga. This entry level certification will give you the foundational knowledge of yoga and will teach you how to teach a basic yoga class.
What you'll learn
The 200 hour program is 200 hours. You’ll study, practice teaching, take yoga classes to evaluate. Your training should be comprehensive and cover topics like yoga philosophy, asanas (poses), basic anatomy, and teaching methodology of that particular course.
You may find a comprehensive course, or you may find one that is for a specific type of yoga like vinyasa, or power, ashtanga etc.
To Consider:
Be mindful of what type of yoga your training is in. If you want to be well rounded and able to teach multiple different styles of yoga, a general training will probably be better for you then say an ashtanga training or power flow, etc. But, if you know you want to teach solely ashtanga or power then those trainings may be a better fit for you.
Scope and benefits
Obtaining a 200-hour certification allows you to teach yoga classes, both in studios and privately. It provides a solid foundation in yoga, enabling you to guide students through basic sequences and cultivate a safe yoga practice.
Criteria for enrollment
This will depend on the specific program you choose. Some will want you to have some experience practicing yoga for a certain amount of time but some will also allow you to come in with little knowledge.
You will want to take into consideration what you want out of the certification, do you want to deepen your knowledge of yoga? Do you want to teach on the side? Do you want to make yoga your career path?
Researching Accredited Yoga Certification Programs
Technically there really is no governing body over yoga certifications or state wide boards like there are for physical therapy, massage therapy or other similar modalities to yoga.
With that being said, you should still absolutely get officially certified in yoga and find a training program that is reputable.
Identifying reputable certification bodies
1. Yoga Alliance
Yoga Alliance is a widely recognized and respected authority in the yoga industry in the USA. They set standards for yoga teacher training programs and maintain a directory of registered teachers. Earning a certification from a Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga School (RYS) ensures that the program meets established guidelines.
You can search right in yogaalliance.org for schools that are registered through them as an educator.
Once you have completed your training you may register with the yoga alliance as an instructor and they will maintain guidelines for you to keep up your training. This is not a requirement and does cost about $65 a year, you do get added benefits of being registered like special discounts and webinars for continuing education.
2. World Yoga Federation
The World Yoga Federation is an India based organization that provides international certification for both teachers and studios. It’s very similar to the Yoga Alliance except it is on an international basis, so if you are located outside of the US this can be a great one to look out for.
3. Other Internationally Recognized Bodies
Apart from Yoga Alliance and the World Yoga Federation. There are many different organizations that are similar, especially for specific countries.
Some of those include:
NOTE: Just remember when you’re looking for a certification program that you look into if they are registered with one of these reputable governing bodies of yoga.
Evaluating a certification program
1. Curriculum and Course Structure
A thorough evaluation of the curriculum and course structure is crucial in determining the comprehensiveness and depth of a certification program. Look for programs that cover a wide range of topics, including both theory and practical components. A well-structured curriculum ensures a well-rounded education.
2. Teaching faculty and their qualifications
The qualifications and expertise of the teaching faculty influence the quality of education you will receive. Look for programs that have experienced instructors with a solid background in yoga philosophy, anatomy, teaching methodology, and any specialized areas relevant to the program.
To Consider:
If you're able to take a class with the instructor of the program beforehand, we recommend you do. This way you can see if you are drawn to the instructor's teaching style, if you like their philosophies and if you feel comfortable in their classes. This will give you a good idea of how you'll feel in their training program.
3. Reviews and testimonials
Reading reviews and testimonials from previous students can provide insights into the program's effectiveness and reputation. Look for educational institutions that have positive feedback and a track record of producing skilled and knowledgeable yoga instructors.
Logistical Factors
Now that you know what certification you’ll be getting and what to look for as far as accreditation and curriculum, we can get into the nitty gritty of what you need to ask yourself before diving into a teaching program.
Location
1. Local Yoga Certification Programs
This is our recommendation. If you can, choose a local teacher training program. If you go with a local teacher training program at one of your local studios you’ll have so many benefits.
First, in person trainings are extremely important for you to learn how to teach a yoga class to a group of people. In an in-person training program you’ll have your cohort to be able to practice on and your instructors will teach you how to give hands on adjustments and how to command a room while teaching and you’ll be able to actually FEEL what that is like instead of just reading about it or watching a video on it.
As we mentioned earlier it’s recommended that you take a couple classes with the instructor beforehand if you can and if you are doing a local program, the instructor will most likely be a yoga teacher.
If you don’t already have a local program in mind you can look up a few different ones in your area, go take a couple classes with the teachers and allow that to help you make your decision on which program you’d like.
A local program also gives you a built in local community to become a part of and thrive in. Not only will you get to know other yoga teachers in your area, you’ll be able to be a part of a local yoga studio and oftentimes these local studios where you do your training become where you get your first classes as a yoga teacher.
A local program is also more convenient since you don't have to take a large chunk of time out of your life to get your certification.
However, there are still valid reasons for you to take a training that isn’t local or in-person. But, if you are able, we recommend a local program at a local studio.
2. International or Non-local In-Person Certifications
If you can’t find a local yoga certification program that works for you the next thing we’d recommend is an international or non-local program. Maybe there is a teacher that you really respect and resonate with that’s offering a training in a different region or country, or you want to be fully immersed while doing your training, then this option may be better for you.
Popular destinations for international programs are India, Bali, Costa Rica and more. India of course is a great destination if you want to be fully immersed, since it’s the birthplace of yoga. Bali and Costa Rica are known to be spiritual havens and are very popular yoga destinations, you’ll be sure to find trainings in any of these places.
Since you’ll need to travel for these types of certification programs, there are a few things to consider. The additional costs for one, the cost of travel and accommodations will be in addition to your certification. You may be able to find some international programs that are all inclusive with accommodations and the training included.
Some popular international trainings are:
- All Yoga Training In Bali
- Inner Sea Yoga Academy in Costa Rica
- Arhanta Yoga in India
To Consider:
If you do opt for an international certification, consider the additional costs of travel and accommodation. These expenses can significantly impact your overall investment, so it's essential to factor them into your decision-making process.
3. Online Yoga Certification Programs
We do not recommend this type of training unless it’s a hybrid where some modules are online and some modules are in person. However we do understand when and why an online program may be what's best for someone.
If you live in an area where there isn’t much local yoga teacher trainings, you aren’t able to travel for an international training program for whatever reason, then an online program may be the right decision for you.
If you do decide on an online yoga teaching certification program, try to find one that is live where you have live lectures and you can interact with your instructor and classmates.
Online training can be great for those looking to deepen their knowledge of yoga as a whole, the philosophy, anatomy, and structure of a yoga class. You will learn these basics in an online program.
An online certification can also be great for those who aren’t sure they want to be yoga teachers and don’t want to make the commitment of a full in-person teacher training. In this case, an online program is a great way for you to dip your toes into what a training will be like and if you are really interested in doing a full teacher training.
If your circumstances put you in a position where an online course is the only option for you, then do it! It’s better to get your certification and begin your yoga teaching career than to hold off because you cannot do an in-person training at the moment. You will have opportunities in the future to take more trainings and you absolutely should but don’t let anything hold you back from doing your yoga certification. If you know that that is what you truly want, get there by any means necessary.
Some training online with good reviews and live components
Training duration and schedule
200 hours is a commitment, so you do need to consider how you can fit your yoga teacher training certification into your life.
But remember, there is always a way!
1. Full-time vs. Part-time Certification
Consider your personal circumstances and commitments when deciding between full-time and part-time certifications. Full-time programs may offer a more concentrated learning experience, while part-time programs allow you to balance your studies with other responsibilities.
Before deciding on the program you’re going to do be sure to check the schedule of the training. It might be every weekend, during the week, meeting once a month, etc. Be sure it fits into your schedule. If there are just a few days you wouldn’t be able to make, don’t give up on that course, reach out to the instructor and see if there is some way to make up those specific days/times you cannot make.
2. Length of Program
The duration of the certification program is an important factor to consider. Evaluate whether you prefer an intensive program that will allow you to graduate sooner or a more extended program that offers a more relaxed pace for learning. Consider how you can fit this into your life. Although it might seem like a good idea to do an intensive that will get you graduated sooner, also consider if you will be able to allocate the time for studying in our schedule. You will need to study, read, practice teaching, go to other classes to evaluate, and more so take that into consideration. A longer program that is slower paced may be easier for you if you have a busy life.
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Cost and Financial Considerations
Program fees and inclusions
Ultimately you will need to decide what you’re willing to pay for a certification program. It is an investment in yourself and your business, especially if you want to become a full-time yoga instructor.
A good yoga teacher certification program won’t be dirt cheap, but it also shouldn’t break the bank.
There are a few things to consider when analyzing the cost of a program.
1. Program Quality
Look at the program's reputation, curriculum, and certification. A well-regarded program can be worth the investment.
Mostly, your program fees to consider will be:
- Basic tuition
- Books
- Classes you’ll need to attend
- Extra workshops
- Props
- Printing costs
2. Time and Place
Think about how long the training is and where it's located. Longer programs or those in high-cost areas may require a bigger budget. But remember a longer program may be more well-rounded and give you more value.
To Consider:
If you do opt for an international certification, consider the additional costs of travel and accommodation. These expenses can significantly impact your overall investment, so it's essential to factor them into your decision-making process.
3. Bonuses of the Program
See what's included in your cost. Some programs will offer mentorships, extra workshops, or memberships to the studio. These are high value bonuses and can validate a higher ticket price.
Scholarships
There are scholarship and financial aid opportunities for yoga certification programs. See if your local training offers any kind of scholarship program, financial aid or even payment plans.
School Yoga Institute offers a couple scholarships for their trainings held around the world.
Soma yoga offers scholarships and have trainings worldwide and online.
Return on Investment
Before making a financial commitment, assess the potential return on investment in your yoga career. Consider the earning potential as a certified yoga instructor and any additional doors that may open with this certification. Weighing these factors will help you determine the value of the program in relation to its cost.
Personal Considerations
Self-reflection and intention
Before diving into a yoga certification program, take some time to reflect on your why. Why do you want to do a yoga certification? Do you want to become a teacher? Do you want to deepen your knowledge?
Think about how a yoga certification will affect and change your life. Imagine the life you would have after obtaining your certification, what does that look like? What are you doing? Who are you impacting?
To Consider:
If you do opt for an international certification, consider the additional costs of travel and accommodation. These expenses can significantly impact your overall investment, so it's essential to factor them into your decision-making process.
Aligning values with professional choices
Aligning your values with your professional choices is essential for long-term fulfillment in your yoga career. Choose a certification program that resonates with your beliefs, philosophies, and approach to teaching yoga.
Choosing a certification program that resonates
Ultimately, choose a yoga certification program that resonates with your vision and aligns with your teaching style. Trust your intuition and select a program that feels authentic, inspiring, and supportive of your personal and professional growth.
So, What do we recommend?
We recommend taking a local in-person yoga certification at a local studio with an instructor that you admire and respect for their teaching style and philosophy where you can grow in community with your fellow teacher trainees.
Choosing the right path for you takes reflection, research,and consideration.
First take into consideration your goals, your life circumstances (including finances and time), research accredited programs for their curriculum, instructor, and costs.
And most importantly enjoy the journey! The path to becoming a yoga teacher is extremely fulfilling and life shaping.
To Consider:
If you do opt for an international certification, consider the additional costs of travel and accommodation. These expenses can significantly impact your overall investment, so it's essential to factor them into your decision-making process.
FAQs
1. What's the Difference Between a 200-Hour and 500-Hour Certification?
A 200-hour certification is foundational. This is where every yoga teacher begins, you learn the basics and get ready to teach. On the other hand, a 500-hour certification takes you deeper into yoga philosophy, advanced poses, and teaching techniques, building on what you learned in the 200-hour program.
2. Can I Teach Yoga Without Certification?
It isn’t illegal to teach without certification, and it is possible. However we don’t recommend teaching without a certification, with a certification you will learn how to safely guide students and learn what the scope of your teaching is.
3. How Long Does a Yoga Certification Take?
The time it takes to complete a yoga certification program varies based on the length of your program and whether it is self-paced or not. For a 200-hour certification, it can be a few months.
4. Are Online Yoga Certifications Valid?
Yes, there are online yoga certification programs that are valid and accredited. Just make sure the program has a full curriculum as well as a practicum. Look for ones that offer a well-rounded education with practical training to help you become a great teacher.
However, we do recommend in-person trainings as your best option if possible.
5. What's the Average Cost of Yoga Certifications?
The cost of yoga certifications can vary greatly. It depends on things like where you're studying, how the program is structured, and the reputation of the institution. You might spend a few hundred bucks for online courses or several thousand for intensive, in-person training.
On average, you can find a yoga certification course ranging from $1,500-$4,000.
6. Do I Need Yoga Alliance Registration for Success?
Yoga Alliance registration isn't a must, but it can boost your career by adding credibility. There are also benefits to being a yoga alliance member like discounts and continuing education workshops.
