The Best Yoga Teacher Training Program: How to decide which 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training Program to take
10 years ago I decided to take a Yoga Teacher Training Program to get my 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training Certificate and it was the best decision I have ever made. It changed my life and will forever impact each moment that goes by. When I think back about how I decided which program to take, I feel a bit embarrassed…because I honestly just put it in Google Search and clicked on a few at the top and decided between those. I don’t regret my decision at all, because if it weren’t for that decision I wouldn’t have made the beautiful connections and memories that I did, but now that I have been an insider of the Yoga Industry for 10 years, I would make a different decision today.
Deciding to embark on a yoga teacher training (YTT) journey is an exciting and transformative decision. There are so many different 200 Hour programs out there and what makes it so challenging to decide which one is for you is that each 200 Hour YTT can be extremely different. Although there are so many to choose from, we can also see the differences as a way to help you decide which one would be best for you.
Whether you're looking to deepen your personal practice or step into the role of a yoga teacher, choosing the right program is crucial to ensuring a positive and enriching experience that is aligned with what you value and what you wish to achieve. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process and select the best yoga teacher training program for you.
1. Identify Your Goals and Intentions
Before diving into the details of different programs, take some time to reflect on your personal goals and intentions. Ask yourself:
Why do I want to do a yoga teacher training?
What do I hope to gain from the experience?
Am I looking to teach, or is this more for deepening my practice?
What specific areas of yoga am I most interested in (e.g., Vinyasa (Flow), Hatha, Power Yoga, Restorative, Functional Anatomy, Philosophy)?
How do I learn the best? In-person, virtually, mixed, at my own pace?
What’s important in terms of the schedule? Flexible options and timeline, or are you able to commit for a short period with an intensive?
Understanding your motivations will help you narrow down your options and choose a program that aligns with your personal aspirations.
2. Consider the Style of Yoga
Yoga comes in many styles, each with its own unique focus and approach. Nowadays at studios it’s expected to be able to teach many different styles of yoga, depending on what the studio is offering. What’s interesting about yoga styles are that they are also interpreted differently by different teachers, in different regions and through different cultures. It’s important to choose a program that aligns with the style of yoga you love and align with, although who knows…you could always fall in love with something new & different. Common styles of yoga teacher training include:
Vinyasa: Focuses on flow and breath synchronization with dynamic movements.
Vinyasa is often called “Flow” on studio schedules.
There are many different interpretations of “Vinyasa” and “Flow”.
At Mind & Move Academy we dive into various ways to teach a Vinyasa/Flow class and practice the differences between dynamic flows, standard flows, slow flows and more. We teach about the Vinyasa style in the course Live Yoga: The Flow of Life and we teach about traditional vs modern Vinyasa in the course Yoga: Past, Present & Future.
Hatha: Emphasizes balance, breath control, and the foundational poses.
Hatha is known to be the umbrella of all styles of yoga.
Some people answering the question, “what is Hatha Yoga?” answer: “it’s just yoga”.
Vinyasa/Flow classes are typically more common on studio schedules than Hatha (depending on your area/region)
At Mind & Move Academy in our 200 Hour YTT we discuss Hatha Yoga as a style and how it could be practiced/taught, and we have an entire 15 Hour Course on Hatha coming soon.
Power Yoga: A empowering practice with balance, vigor and determination.
Power Yoga is interpreted differently by teachers, but commonly can include different ways to be challenged in practice (e.g., holding postures for longer, increasing the heart rate, prolonged focus on the breath/going inward)
Power Yoga is often combined with other styles such as core, pilates, barre and flow.
At Mind & Move Academy we focus on empowerment in our 12 hour Power Yoga Course that extends beyond the style and goes further by learning how to step into your own power.
Restorative Yoga: Focuses on relaxation, deep stretching, and mindfulness.
There is a large gap between traditional and modern restorative yoga.
You can walk into a “Restorative Yoga” class at one side of the town that’s completely different at the other end of town.
Restorative Yoga is typically with the use of (a lot) of props, but can also be done without props through different interpretations of the style.
You typically hold relaxing poses for longer in Restorative.
At Mind & Move Academy we explore 4 very different ways we can teach the Restorative Yoga style, and interpret the needs of our students that are attending our classes today.
Kundalini: Combines breath, movement, and meditation to awaken spiritual energy.
Less common to find this style at modern yoga studios.
Aligned with the intention of connecting to a higher path.
Rooted in seeking transformation.
Often includes dynamic movement, a variety of components in class and unique practices.
If you're passionate about a particular style, seek out programs that specialize in that approach. If you’re open to exploring new styles, consider programs that offer a broad overview of multiple yoga practices.
3. Research the Curriculum
The curriculum is a key factor in determining whether a program is right for you. Review the program's syllabus and consider the following:
Depth of Content: Does the program cover areas you’re interested in, such as anatomy, functional anatomy, philosophy, history, teaching methodology, and asana practice?
Balance Between Theory and Practice: Does the program offer a good mix of practical teaching experience and theoretical learning?
Specializations: Are there any specialized modules or electives, such as yoga for specific populations (e.g., restorative, power yoga, fitness modules) or advanced anatomy?
Diversity in Content: Does the program cover a diverse amount of yoga topics, considering that the 200 Hour pathway is your “entrance” into the yoga world?
Relevancy of Content: Does the program cover relevant topics with the latest research that can apply to students practicing yoga today, and can support you getting a job at studios in your area?
Ensure that the program's curriculum matches your learning objectives and provides a comprehensive education that will serve your future goals.
4. Check the Qualifications and Experience of the Instructors
The quality of instruction can significantly impact your YTT experience. Look into the qualifications, experience, and teaching philosophy of the program’s lead instructors:
Experience Level: Do the instructors have a strong background in teaching yoga? Do they have education outside of the yoga field, diversifying their offerings?
Certifications: Are they certified by recognized yoga organizations, such as Yoga Alliance? Do they have any other credible certificate standings such as ISSA, PPSC, FRCms, Kinstretch, etc.?
Teaching Style: Do their teaching methods resonate with you? Consider taking a class or workshop with them if possible. At Mind & Move Academy we have our program divided in 18 courses. This allows you to try out a course, perhaps a shorter course, and see if you really want to make the commitment with us for the full 200 Hours.
Instructors who are experienced, knowledgeable, and supportive can greatly enhance your learning experience.
5. Consider the Format and Location
Yoga teacher training programs come in various formats, including:
1-Month Intensive: Full-time programs that are usually completed within 3-4 weeks.
Season Intensive: Part-time programs spread out over 3-4 months, allowing you to balance training with other commitments.
Virtual: Offers the flexibility to learn from home, often at your own pace, but may lack the immersive experience of in-person training.
Destination: Retreat-style trainings held in exotic locations, offering a complete immersion experience.
Choose the format that best fits your lifestyle, learning preferences, and time availability. Additionally, consider whether you prefer the structure and community of in-person training or the flexibility of online options. At Mind & Move Academy we value accessibility, which is why we offer seasonal intensives in-person, virtual options (coming soon), an go at your own pace options and take up to 2 years!
6. Evaluate the Program’s Accreditation and Certification
To ensure your training is recognized and respected, check if the program is accredited by a reputable organization, such as Yoga Alliance. This accreditation ensures the program meets certain standards of quality and that your certification will be recognized by potential employers or studios if you choose to teach.
7. Assess the Cost and Value
Yoga teacher training programs can be a significant financial investment. While it’s important to consider the cost, also weigh the value you’ll receive from the program:
What’s included in the cost? (e.g., training manuals, additional resources, etc)
Is there an option for payment plans or scholarships?
Are alumni of the program successful and satisfied with their training?
Don’t just look for the cheapest option—consider the overall quality and value of the training.
8. Read Reviews and Testimonials
Hearing from past students can provide valuable insight into what to expect from a program. Look for reviews and testimonials online, or ask the program for references you can speak with directly. Consider asking about:
The overall experience: What did they love about the program, and what were the challenges?
Instructor support: Were the instructors supportive, knowledgeable, and accessible?
Post-graduation support: Did the program offer career support or continued education opportunities after graduation?
Testimonials can help you gauge whether the program lives up to its promises.
9. Trust Your Intuition
Finally, trust your gut feeling. If a program resonates with you and feels right, it probably is. Listen to your intuition and choose the program that aligns with your personal values, goals, and vision for your yoga journey.
Conclusion
Choosing the right yoga teacher training program is a deeply personal decision that requires careful consideration of your goals, preferences, and needs. By taking the time to research and reflect, you can find a program that not only enhances your practice but also sets you on a path to a fulfilling and transformative career as a yoga teacher. Remember, this journey is about more than just learning to teach—it’s about deepening your connection to yourself and the yoga community, and ultimately, sharing the gift of yoga with others.
I’ve taken multiple 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training Programs amongst many other trainings and I’ve put together what I believe to be the best yoga teacher training program in Vancouver, BC, Canada. Of course, I believe that what’s considered the best yoga teacher training program would be unique to everyone, but I am proud of my work and the endless hours we’ve put into our school of yoga. I am proud of the students have have graduated from Mind & Move Academy and I am excited for their growing teaching careers. Please reach out to us here if you have any questions at all about Mind & Move Academy, our yoga courses and our 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training Program.