We all know that yoga teacher training is no joke. It’s a lot of hard work, but it’s also an incredibly rewarding experience. However, there are a few things about yoga teacher training that people often get wrong. Here are five of the most common misconceptions about yoga teacher training. Read on to learn more!

• 1. You Have To Be A Yoga Expert Before You Can Begin Yoga Teacher Training

You don’t need to be a yoga expert beforehand, although it can definitely help if you are familiar with the basics before beginning teacher training.

You also do not have to know how to teach in order for your application to go through; many people come into their program totally fresh and learn on the job (teaching under supervision). While some schools may require that applicants already possess certain skills or knowledge about teaching, it is by no means required as part of the application process.

Completing yoga teacher training doesn’t necessarily make you an expert. Although the experience of undergoing this intensive training provides teachers with some valuable tools, only those who continue learning and practicing will become true experts on their own terms. Yoga is about personal development as much as it’s about physical fitness.

Many new instructors worry they won’t measure up against more experienced peers or trained staff members when starting out on their own. These fears are completely normal, as is the pressure to prove yourself professionally. The most important thing you can do when starting out as a yoga instructor is to find your own unique style and voice. This takes time and experience but it’s well worth it in terms of establishing your reputation and building relationships with students who resonate with what you have to say and offer them through your classes.

While having a strong personal practice is certainly beneficial, it’s not required in order to become certified. What’s most important is your dedication to the field and your willingness to learn. There are many excellent programs available that offer both theoretical and practical training, so there is no need to feel intimidated!

• 2. You Need To Travel Abroad To Get Certified

It is a misconception that you have to travel abroad in order to get certified as a yoga teacher. The truth is, there are many reputable yoga teacher training programs offered in the United States. In addition, online yoga teacher training programs are becoming increasingly popular and offer students the flexibility they need to complete their certification from anywhere in the world.

The cost of a yoga teacher training program can vary greatly depending on several factors including length and location. The truth is, there are many reputable yoga trainer certification courses offered at affordable prices in the United States as well as abroad. In addition, you should never have to pay an exorbitant amount for your education because there are always ways to save money while still receiving quality instruction from highly trained instructors.

• 3. You Need To Study Yoga Philosophy

Some courses do offer education about philosophy but others focus on practical skills like sequencing and anatomy. It is possible to not take any of those courses or change your mind later after learning more about them. 

However, gaining knowledge about Yoga’s origins can help you better understand yourself as well as other people who practice this ancient art form. For example, studying Patanjali’s Eight Limbs (which include Yama and Niyamas) will provide insight into one’s spiritual journey towards self-realization through intentional living practices.

• 4. You Have To Be Fit To Teach Yoga

Many people assume that you need to be in great shape before becoming a yoga teacher. This is not the case! In fact, one of the things that makes yoga so wonderful is its ability to meet students where they are and help them grow from there. 

Yoga teachers come from all walks of life and range in their levels of fitness. What’s important is that you have a genuine interest in helping others, regardless of your own personal level of athleticism or experience.

• 5. All Yoga Teacher Training Teaches The Same Things

There are a number of common misconceptions about yoga teacher training. The first is that all teacher training teaches the same things. This is not true – each school and program has its own unique curriculum. It’s important to do your research before enrolling in training to make sure it aligns with your personal goals and beliefs.

Don’t let any of these misconceptions hold you back from pursuing your dreams of becoming a yoga instructor. With the right education and guidance, anything is possible! For more information on finding the perfect yoga teacher training program for you, call us today.

Do You Need Vinyasa Yoga Classes You Can Trust?

Yoga Flow SF offers yoga teacher training for yoga students and yoga teachers alike. If you’re simply thinking about taking the practice deeper and you’re ready to dive into your first yoga teacher training or if you’ve been teaching yoga for some time and you’re ready to refine and renew, we have something for you. In the practice, we will forever and always be a student first. So come learn and grow with some of San Francisco’s best yoga teachers, as well as renowned yoga teachers from around the globe. Our yoga teacher training programs are designed to deepen your connection to yourself, your practice, and your community. With over 5 classrooms to offer teachers to teach in, we are one of the largest yoga studios in San Francisco (and now in Walnut Creek!) and pride ourselves on hiring graduates from our yoga teacher training programs. Check out our training schedule now!

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