Additional Information
The best way to get started in yoga is to either find a qualified teacher
or buy a good book or tape. Instructors must then maintain their own disciplined
personal yoga practice.
"Take classes in many different styles of yoga. There are 30 to 40 different
styles available," says Sam Dworkis. He's a yoga instructor from Florida.
"Once you find a style that you like, study with more than one teacher in
that discipline."
Megan McCarver agrees that finding the right teacher is a must. She's a
yoga instructor from California. "It is best to practice yoga with a teacher
you connect with," McCarver says.
"As you build an honest and respectful relationship with your teacher,
you will become more confident in your own practice. Then ask your teacher
about which teacher trainings they recommend. They will point you in the right
direction. Please know that every yoga teacher is always a student and must
continue their education to be most effective as a yoga teacher," she advises.
Yoga instructors should have a basic understanding of anatomy so that they
know how the human body works. A high school diploma is not required, but
is an asset. Training in CPR may be required by an employer for insurance
purposes.
As yoga continues to grow in mainstream popularity, the competition among
the growing numbers of yoga teachers has also increased.
Raymonde Worsfold is president of a yoga federation. He advises yoga teachers
to get involved in a professional association.
"This helps to distinguish you as a teacher, so that when a potential employer
looks at your resume they will see a higher set of qualifications. Specializing
in one style of yoga and market is also helpful to build a reputation of excellence."