Tips for Picking the Right Yoga Teacher Training: Part Two

In my last post, Tips for Picking the Right Yoga Teacher Training: Part One, I spoke about the importance in knowing the type of yoga teacher training and its location when choosing a program. In this post, I'll share the final three factors I believe are crucial when selecting the yoga teacher training that suits you best. 

Duration

For simplicity, let’s say you are pursuing a 200-hr certification. Regardless of how many days you train, the educational hours must total 200. However, the number of days you spend completing those hours can vary.

Local Teacher Training

With a local teacher training, your program can last anywhere from one month to several months. Studios that offer trainings lasting only one or two months will require a significant time commitment during the week, whereas trainings spanning several months typically consist of weekend classes. If you'll be working a full- or part-time job, you may find it challenging to commit to a program that lasts one month. Because of this, I find the weekend model (several months) more accommodating. 

Virtual Teacher Training

Virtual teacher trainings typically come in two formats: live/recorded and fully recorded. A live/recorded model means some modules are live while other content may be written or recorded. Even though you may be taking it at home, the live sessions still allow for community building with your cohort. A fully recorded model is a great option if you need to take the training as slowly or as quickly as you'd like.

Overall, a virtual teacher training is beneficial for those of us who simply can't step away from their everyday lives to commit to an in-person, time consuming YTT. If you can only get through one video per module a week, you have the freedom to do so.

International Yoga Teacher Training

Just like a vacation, you'll need to take some time off your everyday life to pursue a yoga teacher training abroad, as the average 200-hr YTT spans 21-26 days. You will find some options that are less than 20 days, but I personally would not recommend them. My 200-hr YTT lasted 24 days, and by the last week, many of my cohorts and I experienced a level of physical and mental exhaustion we've never felt before. Some began crashing by week two, so I can't fathom completing a 200-hr training in less than 20 days. However, the option is there if needed. 

Do keep in mind, the longer your training, the longer you are away from home in a foreign country. Therefore, it's critical to think about what that means for you, your home, family, and/or pets. Once you’ve sorted that out, you can consider the cost of your training. 

Cost

Yoga teacher trainings are not cheap, so once you've considered all the previous factors, you can ask yourself, "How much can I afford for a YTT?" Be sure to shop around and read the details of what you're paying for. You'd be surprised at what's included and what's not included in certain trainings fees. For instance, the cost of books/materials are not included in every studio's training cost.

Many programs will also require a non-refundable deposit, some of which can be incredibly high, so be sure you are able to make that payment on time. And whatever you do, never forget the non-training costs. If you're taking the training at a local studio, what will your transportation costs (gas, tolls, bus/train fare) be? If you're at your training all day, what will you eat, and how much will that cost? If you have children, you may need to think about childcare. It's critical you factor in any cost not directly associated with the program but necessary for you to complete it.

Financial Aid 

If you're not in a position to splurge on your yoga teacher training, my number one tip is to create a budget and save. However, you may be relieved to know that some studios offer financial assistance. The financial aid options I've come across include:

• Early Bird Special - Save a certain percentage if you pay earlier than the deadline.

• Work Exchange - Work at the studio in exchange for a percentage off your training fee.

• Grants/Scholarships - A set amount granted to you, typically requiring you to submit an application that may include a few questions about why you need the grant/scholarship.

  • To address the inaccessiblity of yoga and yoga certifications for BIPOC due to cost and other factors, some studios in the U.S. provide grants for BIPOC trainees, so be on the look out for those kinds of opportunities.

  
  

Now that I've shared the five key factors to consider when picking a yoga teacher training, I hope you'll feel less overwhelmed by the numerous options out there. Remember, you are making a significant investment in both your practice and yourself. What you learn will shape the experiences of your future students, so it's crucial to ensure you have a meaningful and enriching journey. By thoughtfully considering these factors, you’re taking control of the aspects of your training that matter most. Happy training, and may your path to becoming a yoga teacher be as fulfilling as the practice itself!