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Yoga Instructor
Fitness

How to become a Yoga Instructor

What does a Yoga Instructor do?

Thinking about becoming a Yoga Instructor? Om Shanti…

Yoga Instructors (also known as Yoga Teachers) teach students on the principles and practical implications of yoga, an ancient form of exercise which aims to help people improve their mental and physical wellbeing.

Yoga teaching can take various different forms, but common aspects for instruction include the correct way of performing different yoga positions, proper breathing techniques, meditation and chanting.

Typical duties for a Yoga Teacher include:

  • Designing comprehensive lesson plans to match their students abilities
  • Guiding lessons, including leading chanting and meditation
  • Helping students improve their practice, such as correcting positons or providing feedback on breathing techniques
  • Drawing up specific plans for students with specific injuries
  • Continuing their own development and learning new techniques to keep classes varied

Is a career as a Yoga Instructor right for me?

First and foremost, you’ll need to practice what you preach.

That means not only do you need an excellent understanding of yoga, but you’ll also have the ability to perform it at an extremely high level. If you can barely bend down and touch your toes, this may not be the job for you. Aside from a passion for the pastime, a good level of physical fitness will also be key to your success. Especially if you plan on teaching more than one class a day…

Other necessary attributes that are important for Yoga Teachers include:

  • Empathy
  • Flexibility (both figuratively, and physically)
  • Confidence, whether leading a group or working one-on-one
  • Excellent communication skills
  • A friendly, calm and caring manner
  • The ability to motivate people, regardless of ability level
  • Business acumen and commercial awareness

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Career progression and salary expectations for a Yoga Instructor

The average starting salary for a Yoga Instructor can vary.

Get qualified as a Yoga Instructor

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What's it like to be a Yoga Instructor?

"I've been practicing yoga for almost 10 years, and have been instructing for almost two. I'm self-employed, meaning I can work at my own pace and don’t have to answer to anyone. I run my classes my way, which are (hopefully) fun and intimate and relaxed – everything good yoga should be. Seeing people’s individual journeys through yoga is incredible, and I love being the one that leads it. There’s nothing else like it."
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