Becoming a yoga instructor requires a passion for the well-being of others and a commitment to your own well-being and personal growth. You’ll help guide students in their own practice, teach students the correct form for poses, and provide guidance in yogic philosophy and lifestyle.
The best part about being a yoga teacher is that you can be flexible — whether it’s in your yoga style, teaching style, how much you work, and even where you work. Travel is common in the industry.
If you truly want to become a yoga instructor, then you’ve come to the right place.
Here we put together a short, easy-to-follow guide to help you get started:
Skills you’ll need (beyond yoga):
- Passion for health, fitness, and wellness
- Sociability, and being comfortable around people
- The ability to motivate and inspire others
- Be both a great learner and listener
- The desire to help others
- Some business and marketing skill if you decide to work on your own
Step 1: Learn yoga.
The first step to a successful career is knowing that you love what you do. Whether you’re taking classes, have a mentor, or are self-taught, understanding which style works best for you is essential in moving forward with your career. There are many styles of yoga to learn and teach, from Hatha, Bikram, Vinyasa, and more! Consistent practice is also vital for your growth. Yoga is more than just poses, it is a way of life.
Step 2: Enroll in a teacher training course.
Once you feel ready and confident enough to take it a step further, it’s time to learn how to teach! Instructor training for yoga involves coursework in anatomy and physiology, yoga philosophy, and teaching techniques. You’ll also have hands-on training and mentorship from your teachers and you will learn by experience by observing and assisting your teacher to teaching classes.
Step 3: Network with the people around you.
Making connections with people, especially your teachers and classmates, may increase the likelihood of you landing a job as soon as you become a certified instructor. Know a stay-at-home mother who wants to get fit? Perhaps someone knows a gym that’s hiring yoga instructors? The possibilities are endless!
Step 4: Become a certified instructor.
Once you complete training in your accredited course, you can officially become a qualified yoga instructor. This means:
- You have credibility, insurance privileges, and directory listing benefits
- You’ve covered the necessary knowledge and skills to teach yoga
- You can be employed in most gyms and other workplaces that require a certification
- You’ve benefited personally and accomplished a dedication and commitment to yourself could lead to a very fulfilling life
Step 5: Apply for opportunities.
Now that you’re certified, it’s time to make your career as a qualified yoga teacher! You can seek full-time or part-time employment from gym establishments, yoga studios, and more — or, you can opt to be self-employed and work for yourself as a private teacher or by hosting your own classes. The world is your oyster!
Continuing Your Education
Want to take your yoga teaching career to the next step and specialize? Consider becoming a Specialist Yoga Teacher of Therapeutic Yoga! At Demi International, we offer the Advanced Diploma of Holistic Classical Yoga Practices, grounded in Hatha Yoga. Our yoga academy is equipped with the best resources and instruction to help you further your career.
