Navigating Your Path after Yoga Teacher Training

Congratulations on completing your 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training (YTT)! This is a significant achievement that sets you on the path to enriching both your life and the lives of others. However, as you step outside the comforting confines of your training group, the prospect of teaching your first in-person class may seem daunting.

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You're not alone in feeling this way—many new teachers grapple with similar concerns.

Common Concerns for New Yoga Instructors

As you prepare to embark on your teaching journey, you might find yourself pondering questions such as:

Is my timing right?
Am I the type of teacher who can improvise the flow of postures, or do I need to pre-plan my sequences?
How do I start and end my classes?
What makes my class unique?
What is my voice and cadence as I teach?
Which parts should I demonstrate, and how will I approach adjustments?

The questions can indeed feel endless, but the time before landing your first official yoga job is an opportunity to refine your techniques and discover your unique voice as a teacher.

Tips for Developing Your Teaching Skills

Conduct Mock Classes

Start by conducting mock classes at home. Record yourself to review later and gain valuable self-feedback. This practice will help you perfect your timing, as it can be challenging as a new teacher to discern the difference between a 30-minute class and a 90-minute session. Additionally, practicing along with your recorded video can give you insight into the student experience, helping you refine your voice, tempo, and class flow.

Pre-plan Your Sequences

If you find it beneficial, write down your sequences or organise them into sections if you're more of a free-flow teacher. One effective strategy is to create "bundles" of poses that work well together. This approach not only makes it easier to remember your sequences but also allows for variety by mixing and matching different bundles of poses. As you gain experience, you'll naturally develop more variations.

Teach Friends and Family

Offer free sessions to friends and family. Set up a full class wherever you find space, whether at home or elsewhere. This experience will help you become accustomed to setting up and breaking down classes in various environments.

Essential Tips for New Instructors to Build Confidence and Find Their Unique Voice

Feedback from family and friends, especially when they represent a diverse demographic, can provide valuable insights into catering to the unique needs of different students. It also prepares you for teaching mixed-level classes, a common scenario for many instructors.

Engage with Your Community

Once you've gained some confidence, extend yourself to conduct free classes in your community. Hosting sessions in parks, churches, senior centres, or community fitness spaces is an excellent way to build your reputation. Look for volunteer opportunities or pitch yourself as a volunteer teacher at local events. Organisations, businesses, and communities frequently welcome teachers with limited experience, particularly when they are not responsible for the associated costs.

Preparing for Your Yoga Career

Build Your Resume and Network

After a few community classes, you'll feel ready to apply for paid yoga positions. Be prepared to audition and use your pre-teacher experience to highlight your skills. When crafting your yoga resume, include your community work and private sessions with friends and family. Focus on applying to places that resonate with your teaching style. Don't hesitate to pitch a specific style you're passionate about, even if it's not yet offered at your desired studio or gym.

Leverage Connections

Promote yourself through social media, community boards, and email announcements. Networking is crucial—often, a recommendation is all you need to get your foot in the door. If you're comfortable with private sessions, consider listing yourself on online platforms for one-on-one teaching.

Embrace the Journey

Completing your 200-hour YTT is a monumental milestone. Be proud of your hard work and remember that, as a true yogi, this is just the beginning of a lifelong journey of growth and improvement. Maintain your personal practice and wellness goals as you share your passion with the world. Keep your confidence high, and best of luck as you begin your teaching adventure!