How to Become a Yoga Instructor

Yoga continues to increase in popularity. Although some people consider the practice almost an art form, many more people use yoga to strengthen, tone, and relax their bodies. Some people, after a number of years of practice, think about sharing their passion by becoming a yoga instructor. When you become a yoga instructor, you must understand that it is a fairly lengthy journey.

Before beginning any type of training or certification to become a yoga instructor, ensure that the program that you are inquiring about is certified by a trusted entity that has been in business for many years. For example, the American Fitness Professionals and Associates (AFPA) offers two levels of certification courses to help you realize your dream of becoming a yoga instructor. Level One is for beginning and intermediate practitioners of yoga. Level Two is geared more for the expert yoga instructor.

Yoga Alliance is also a reputable establishment that offers certification that allows you to become a yoga instructor. Like the AFPA, Yoga Alliance has two levels of certification but their levels are based on hours of training. The first level requires studying for 200 hours. The second level requires the successful completion of the first level as well as an additional 300 hours of studying for a total of 500 hours of instruction.

In order to be hired by a yoga studio, health club or other employer such as that, most require the completion of a level one certification. If you are thinking about becoming a yoga instructor so that you can open your own yoga studio, you will have more credibility if you are certified.

There are many different types of yoga and the type that you become a yoga instructor in will vary depending on a number of factors. If there is a yoga studio nearby, it is a good idea to find out if their style will mesh with yours. If it does, you will be able to use them as a valuable resource as you follow your journey to becoming a yoga instructor.

If you do not have a yoga studio nearby, or if the style of yoga that is taught there does not suit your needs, some organizations that issue certificates for instructors, such as the AFPA, offer the training in a self directed format. You receive all the materials by mail to complete during your own time. You also receive support from experienced yoga instructors.

Try looking at becoming a yoga instructor as an investment into your future. Although there is a cost for the necessary certification, thinking about it as an investment in your long term goals makes it more realistic as far as the cost is concerned.

There are a variety of programs with different meeting requirements. Some meet on a fast-paced schedule while others adhere to a slower pace. Some require travel to other regions while other programs do not. With the range of flexibility that is offered, you will find the perfect program to help you on your journey to becoming a yoga instructor.