200HR RYT- What format is right for me?
Consider this a living breathing document. As I receive more questions I'll be adding on periodically so be sure to come back for more. We'll be addressing the ever popular topic "What 200hr RYT is right for me?".
Community is key in a yoga career. If you're already involved with a yoga community I would ask your local studio if / when they'll be holding a teacher training as you love their style of teaching and would love to learn more about it. Etc. etc. I would also make sure that whatever certification you choose it's accredited through Yoga Alliance. (more on Yoga Alliance) If you're not one to cozy up in the community than I would recommend branching out a bit. Do the deep dive and ask around. If there is a specific teacher you like, at the end of class pull them aside and say "I enjoy the way you teach and am interested in taking a teacher training myself. Do you mind if I ask where you received your certification from." Yoga is a practice that spans the globe you may be surprised by the answers you receive.
Being there are several formats of Yoga Training, Modular | Intensive | Online. They all have their appeals. Modular gives you the opportunity to learn and digest. Meeting with a group typically over 6-7 weekends. This is a standard method of training that I myself have experienced and thoroughly enjoyed. I found that I was able to process and retain all the information handed to me by the instructor and dive deeper into yogic philosophy without the need to feel rushed.
For my 300hr I opted for an intensive training and I adore this format even if I did have a wild time in the jungle. It comes down to personality and length of experience. Now, do I think you can learn everything you need to know in a week? No. However, there are some 21 day and 30 day experiences that have looked appealing. Again, always check they are certified through Yoga Alliance and comb through the reviews. Know that if you're not comfortable with communal bathrooms-- don't choose something with communal bathrooms! You create your experience so choose your thoughts and trainings wisely. I repeat READ THE REVIEWS.
Some realize they can spend a month in Rishikesh for $1000. Only to be stopped by a plane ticket twice that amount. Depending on where you choose the most expensive part could be the plane ticket. I decided it was my opportunity to "study abroad". An added benefit of an intensive training is that you will create a practice that is different from others in your community. Bringing a bit of zest and something new back home. Techniques are like accents, and we always mimic the ones we like.
Although, there are so many online teacher trainings since Covid, I strongly recommend you find something that at least offers a mixed format. Some in person and some online lectures. Nothing beats soaking up the information from its source. I understand the appeal as it can be significantly cheaper, but I cannot count how many times I've heard "well I bought an online course, but I never finished it...". Your ability to ask questions is invaluable and having an instructor with devoted time is a gift. Also, your fellow students are a vein of untapped knowledge. Having the ability to learn from your peers, exchange ideas and compare notes is a treasured experience. If you were to ask “Should I take an online teacher training?”. I would have to say, “it's a no for me”.
No matter what you choose, remember, there are many ways up the mountain and no two are alike. Make sure your path includes a Yoga Alliance certificate and well laid out syllabus. Ultimately, I would only avoid a format that is entirely online as you may miss out on invaluable opportunities to learn and connect with peers. Otherwise, happy training and if you have any specific questions feel free to email me!
XOXO
KEN