10 Questions You Should Ask before Choosing a Yoga Course
November 8, 2023
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Yoga can do wonders for your body. The fact that you have made the decision to start learning this form of exercise is a wonderful step in the right direction. Yoga does not only provide many health benefits, flexibility, and control, it may even help with weight loss.
But you probably already knew that and now are looking for the best yoga teacher to guide you. Before finding the right instructor for you, you must first determine the yoga style you wish to practice.
As there are many different styles, it is best to know the difference between each, to find the right one for you. Some of the most popular styles include:
- Vinyasa Yoga - The poses flow from one into the next following your breath.
- Hatha Yoga - Gentle yoga which is ideal for beginners.
- Restorative Yoga - Used to help individuals that are stressed or recovering from an injury.
- Power Yoga - A faster more challenging type of Vinyasa Flow.
- Ashtanga Yoga - Athletic style where each pose is held for 5 breaths and ends in a sun salutation.
As in school when you were a kid, learning from the right teacher can make all the difference. That’s why you should ask yourself these 10 questions to make sure you’ll get the most out of your course:
What yoga education does your teacher have?
Find out about your teacher who you will be training with. This can be done with an online search of the trainer or the school they are affiliated with.
You can also see if he or she is continuing their training to improve and be better at what they’re doing.
Is your teacher or the school certified?
Currently, Yoga Alliance is the only organization that oversees the industry. This organization registers yoga schools based on specific criteria and a curriculum.
Furthermore, it is best to choose a teacher who is “registered” or “certified”. If they’re not in the Yoga Alliance Directory, they may have studied at a Registered Yoga School. Many teachers choose to not register - however, this does not mean they are not good at what they do.
If you want to be certified in Yoga Alliance, be sure to check out our great selection of Yoga Alliance approved yoga teacher training courses.
Is your yoga teacher friendly and approachable?
Yoga should be practiced in a calm, safe environment. You’ll be able to take in much more if you’re able to connect and communicate freely with your teacher and peers.
Does the teacher have the ability to teach?
Many individuals may be passionate about yoga, however, they fail to have the ability to teach. Ensure that the trainer you choose has the ability to convey the message and provide the right environment for you to learn as much as you can.
What’s the size of the class?
Fewer people in a class means that there is more time for one-on-one learning. Opt for smaller classes that provide a more hands-on approach.
How long is the course?
For someone who is starting yoga from scratch, it is best to attend a course which is at least a month long. This will ensure you are able to learn all the necessary aspects of becoming a yoga teacher yourself.
In case you’re already an advanced practitioner, there are also short yoga teacher training courses to become a yoga instructor without having to spend a long time.
What’s the reputation of the studio?
It’s wise to find out more about the studio you wish to train at. You can either read up on their website, visit the studio, or ask for referrals. As mentioned above, ensure that the school is registered and that your teacher is certified.
It’s also better to choose a studio that’s within a comfortable distance from your home or work. This way, it will be more convenient and less stressful when getting to a class.
Also, if you wish to go abroad for yoga studies, do enough research to ensure your heart and soul will be in the right place on an intensive yoga retreat.
Can I take a test class?
Take a few classes from the teachers you would prefer training with. This way you’ll be able to connect with your teacher and see which instructor best fits your vibe.
You’ll also be able to see if it feels like a safe and supportive environment.
Am I going to be given resources to expand my yoga?
It is best to find a school that provides you with all the knowledge you need to know about yoga, the body, and the mind. However, this must be combined with tests and assignments, as well as practical sessions.
It does not help if you have a piece of paper that says you are a teacher, but you yourself do not know how to physically do and teach yoga. Find a teacher that’s passionate about the art and form.
Will I be able to ask more questions?
As a teacher, no question a student asks should be perceived as ‘stupid’. A student normally asks a question because something does not “click”. As a student, you must ask as much as you can. It’ll make you a better yogi!
Want to start with a lighter course? Sign up for a 100-hour yoga teacher training & be a step closer to a new career!