Should I be a yoga teacher?

Have you enjoyed the benefits of yoga and are now considering if teaching is for you?

Whether you have a new or long-term yoga practice, keep reading to find out if pursuing yoga teaching is right for you.

Photo by Anupam Mahapatra on Unsplash

• Have a dedicated personal practice

• Teach group and/or private classes

• Design yoga sequences and classes

• Offer students verbal and/or consensual physical adjustments for their poses

• Take continuing education courses (anatomy, philosophy, meditation, etc.)

• Ask for feedback from other teachers and students

• Work on their communication and facilitation skills

Your first YTT (Yoga Teacher Training) is between 200-250 hours.

Depending on your lifestyle, you can complete it in 1 month to a year.

• Fast Track: 3-4 consecutive weeks.

• Work-Friendly: 6-12 months, evenings and weekends.

• Retreat: 3-4 weeks, vacation meets teacher training.

Depending on the YTT, the total cost for training and books can be between $2,000-$5,000.

• Classes can range from 6 am to 9 pm, you can create your own schedule.

• Popular classes are typically at times accessible for people working 9-5. Think early mornings, lunch hours, evenings, and weekends.

Jay

• Loves being active

• Hates public speaking

• Is an entrepreneur and enjoys making his own schedule

Kim

• Has practiced yoga for 10 years

• Enjoys reading new research

• Has a busy schedule with limited free time

Mara

• Enjoys teaching her friends and family recipes

• Is comfortable asking her coworkers for feedback

• Schedules in time for her mindfulness practice

The average hourly pay in Canada is $37 CAD.

The average hourly pay in the USA is $29 USD.

Most studios pay their teachers based on seniority or class size.

As you grow your knowledge and experience you can earn more from:

• Teaching YTT

• Specializing in a niche market

• Teaching private classes

• Creating online/recorded classes

• Partnering with brands or corporate wellness teams

You'll love teaching yoga if you enjoy:

• Yoga and continued learning

• Creating your own schedule

• Teaching and facilitating

You won't love teaching yoga if:

• You don't want a committed practice

• You prefer a 9-5 schedule

• Public speaking makes you anxious

Remember, you can still love the practice even if you're not a teacher!

Yoga is an ancient practice that originated in India. Although it's not a religion, it is connected to Hinduism, Buddism, and Jainism.

While yoga has become incredibly popular in North America, it's important to understand and honour its roots while pursuing teacher training. Take the time to research its rich history and how to appreciate the practice.

Photo by Ashes Sitoula on Unsplash

Are you still interested in pursuing a career as a yoga teacher?