Becoming a yoga teacher is a rewarding journey, but choosing the right training can be quite a challenge.
Between online and in-person training programs, it’s important to assess your needs, budget, and availability.
Understanding your preferences for a specific "type" of yoga (there are over 50 yoga types beyond the classic Hatha Yoga) will help refine your search and possibly guide you toward a specialization.
As a future yoga teacher, equip yourself with the most beautiful clothing and the highest quality gear to support you for years to come.
Here’s a complete guide to help you move in the right direction.
1. Key Criteria for Choosing a Yoga Teacher Training
Before diving into the different options, consider these essential factors:
- Your personal and professional goals : Do you want to teach full-time, open a studio or deepen your personal practice?
- Your preferred yoga style : Make sure the training offers a style that aligns with your interests (Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Yin, etc.).
- Your budget : Face-to-face training is often more expensive than online training.
- Your schedule : Do you have the flexibility to attend classes in person or do you prefer a self-paced schedule?
2. The Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Training
Online yoga teacher trainings have grown in popularity in recent years, thanks in part to their accessibility.
2.1 Advantages
- Flexibility : You can take the courses at your own pace and fit them into your schedule.
- Lower Cost : Online training is often less expensive than in-person training because it eliminates travel and accommodation costs.
- Access to international trainers : You can learn from the world's best teachers without leaving your home.
- Course Replay : Most courses offer recorded videos that you can replay at any time.
2.2 Disadvantages
- Lack of direct interaction : Online training can lack human interaction and instant feedback.
- Difficulty practicing in a group : You may feel a lack of collective energy, which is essential for some people.
- Self-discipline required : Following an online training course requires a high level of motivation and rigorous organization.
3. The Advantages and Disadvantages of Face-to-Face Training
In-person training is ideal for those who prefer an immersive and interactive experience.
3.1 Advantages
- Total immersion : In person, you have a deeper experience thanks to the energy of the group and the teachers.
- Instant Feedback : Trainers can correct your postures in real time and answer your questions directly.
- Community Connection : You create strong bonds with your classmates and teachers.
- Guided Practice : You learn how to teach and adjust students under the direct supervision of a professional.
3.2 Disadvantages
- High costs : In-person training often includes travel, accommodation and food costs.
- Rigidity of schedules : You have to follow a fixed schedule, which can be restrictive for some people.
- Location : Finding quality training near you can be a challenge.
4. The Best Online Trainings
Here are some online training courses renowned for their quality and content:
- Yoga Alliance Certified Online Trainings : Many accredited schools offer comprehensive online training with recognized certification.
- My Vinyasa Practice : A popular platform offering classes suitable for all levels.
- Brett Larkin Yoga : Specializing in immersive online trainings with great community support.
4. Arhanta Yoga : Known for its structured and comprehensive programs, this school offers Yoga Alliance certified training, with an emphasis on theoretical and practical aspects.
5. Green Yoga : Ideal for those looking for eco-friendly training, Green Yoga emphasizes sustainability and environmentally friendly practices.
5. The Best Face-to-Face Trainings
If you prefer face-to-face training, here are some recommendations:
- Rishikesh Yogpeeth (India) : Located in the world capital of yoga, this school offers intensive training courses that are recognized worldwide.
- Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers : A traditional, immersive approach in a variety of beautiful locations.
- André Van Lysebeth Institute (Belgium) : A reference for French-speaking yoga teachers.
6. How to Choose Between Online and In-Person?
Your choice will depend on several personal factors:
- Budget : If you are on a budget, online training will be more affordable.
- Availability : Online training is best suited if you have a busy schedule.
- Learning Style : Do you prefer to learn independently or through interaction with others?
- Objectives : If you are considering a professional career, make sure that the training you choose is accredited by Yoga Alliance or a similar organization.
7. What budget should I expect for yoga training?
7.1 Budget for an online yoga teacher training
The budget for online yoga training varies depending on several criteria:
- The type of training : initiation, in-depth, specialization (prenatal yoga, yin yoga, etc.).
- Certification level : simple online course, certified training (Yoga Alliance, RYT 200, RYT 300, etc.).
- The platform and the teacher : training courses offered by renowned studios or independent teachers.
- Content and support : pre-recorded videos, live sessions, personalized support, educational monitoring.
💰 Price ranges
🔹 Non-certified online courses and workshops : €50 to €300
🔹 RYT 200 certification training (Yoga Alliance, teacher level) : €500 to €2,500
🔹 Advanced RYT 300 training or specializations : €800 to €3,500
🔹 Masterclass and premium training with individual coaching : €1,500 to €5,000
If you are looking for affordable training to get started, some platforms like Udemy, Yoga International or Ekhart Yoga offer low-cost options. For a recognized certification, choose schools affiliated with Yoga Alliance or training provided by experienced teachers.
7.2 Budget for face-to-face yoga teacher training
The budget for an in-person yoga training depends on several factors, including the type of training, the reputation of the teacher or studio, the duration, and the certification offered. Here are some price ranges to give you an idea:
💰 Price ranges for in-person yoga training
🔹 Introductory courses or workshops (one day or one weekend): €50 to €200
🔹 RYT 200 certification training (Yoga Alliance, teacher level) : €1,500 to €4,500
🔹 Advanced RYT 300 training or specializations (prenatal yoga, therapeutic yoga, etc.) : €2,000 to €6,000
🔹 Intensive training lasting several weeks or months (combining online and face-to-face courses) : €3,000 to €7,000
🔹 Masterclasses or specialized retreats (several days of immersion): €1,000 to €3,000
200-hour certification courses, such as those offered by Yoga Alliance , are among the most popular. They often take place over several months with intensive weekend or weekday sessions depending on the program. These courses generally include theoretical courses, practical workshops and educational monitoring.
If you choose a yoga retreat or intensive training, you can also add the costs of accommodation, transportation, and meals, which can increase the total price. For example, a one-week retreat can range from €1,000 to €3,500 , including accommodation and meals.
Are you considering taking a face-to-face training course?
8. What training should I choose to specialize?
If you want to specialize in a specific area of yoga and expand your knowledge, there are many specific courses that will allow you to develop in-depth skills. Here are some popular specialties and courses you might consider:
8.1 Yoga for children
Trainings to teach yoga to children are in high demand and offer tools adapted to the specific needs of the youngest. These trainings focus on fun techniques, modified postures and interactive games.
- Duration: 20 to 100 hours
- Estimated cost: €500 to €2,000
- Popular programs:
- Rainbow Kids Yoga (international certification)
- Childlight Yoga (in-depth training for teaching yoga to children)
8.2 Prenatal and postnatal yoga
Prenatal yoga focuses on specific techniques to support women during pregnancy, while postnatal yoga helps with recovery after childbirth. These trainings include tailored practices and advice on breathing, relaxation and well-being during and after pregnancy.
- Duration: 30 to 85 hours
- Estimated cost: €500 to €2,500
- Popular programs:
- Yoga for Birth and Beyond (approach based on pregnancy and postpartum support)
- Specialized Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training (intensive training to teach prenatal yoga)
8.3 Meditation (Mindfulness and Mindfulness Meditation)
Meditation trainings will teach you how to integrate mindfulness practices into yoga sessions, as well as relaxation and concentration techniques.
- Duration: 30 to 100 hours
- Estimated cost: €500 to €3,000
- Popular programs:
- Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) (worldwide recognized program)
- Meditation Teacher Training (online and face-to-face meditation training)
8.4 Pranayama (yogic breathing)
Pranayama is an essential part of yoga that explores breath control. In-depth training in pranayama can enhance the ability to teach breathing techniques to increase energy, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.
- Duration: 20 to 100 hours
- Estimated cost: €400 to €1,500
- Popular programs:
- Pranayama Teacher Training (specialized training to teach breathing and breath management techniques)
- Advanced Pranayama and Meditation Training
8.5 Therapeutic Yoga and Yoga for the Elderly
Therapeutic yoga focuses on using yoga to treat specific health issues (chronic pain, injuries, etc.), while yoga for seniors allows practices to be adapted to the needs of older adults.
- Duration: 30 to 100 hours
- Estimated cost: €500 to €2,500
- Popular programs:
- Yoga Therapy Certification (specialized training in therapeutic yoga)
- Senior Yoga Teacher Training (training to teach yoga to seniors)
8.6 Restorative Yoga
Restorative yoga is a gentle practice that focuses on relaxation and recovery. Restorative yoga classes will teach you how to use props to support the body in slow, deep postures.
- Duration: 20 to 50 hours
- Estimated cost: €400 to €1,500
- Popular programs:
- Restorative Yoga Teacher Training (certified training to teach restorative yoga)
8.7 Corporate Yoga
Corporate yoga focuses on adapting yoga practices to work environments to help employees reduce stress, improve well-being and productivity.
- Duration: 20 to 50 hours
- Estimated cost: €500 to €2,000
- Popular programs:
- Corporate Yoga Teacher Training (training to integrate yoga into companies)
8.8 Yoga and stress management
This training combines yoga and stress management techniques to help students reduce anxiety and improve their mental well-being.
- Duration: 20 to 50 hours
- Estimated cost: €500 to €1,500
- Popular programs:
- Yoga for Stress Relief (training focused on the use of yoga for stress management)
Where to follow these training courses?
- Yoga Training Centers : Many studios offer in-person training at certified schools like Yoga Alliance or other specialized institutions.
- Online Platforms : Platforms like Yoga Alliance, Udemy, and Yoga International also offer specialized training online.
- Specialty Yoga Retreats : These retreats often take place in remote locations, offering total immersion to delve deeper into a specialty.
If you are considering a specialization, it is important to carefully check the recognition of the training (certification), the reputation of the trainer and the teaching approach. Certification training, such as those recognized by Yoga Alliance , can also be a good choice if you want to teach in the future.
Do you have a specialty in mind that particularly interests you?
Conclusion
Choosing a yoga teacher training is a personal decision that depends on your needs and preferences.
Online training offers flexibility and accessibility, while in-person training provides an immersive and community-based experience.
Take the time to evaluate your options, and remember that the key is to find training that resonates with your values and goals.
Namaste!
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