Bikram yoga is a popular practice style in which students perform a series of asanas in a heated room in order to increase flexibility and elevate fitness. According to founder Bikram Choudhury, instructor training for this physically demanding form of yoga must be undertaken at an approved Bikram studio or with Choudhury's own training program. Students interested in becoming Bikram yoga instructors must meet certain prerequisites and fill out an application in order to qualify for the comprehensive and costly training program.
Background
Founded by Beverly Hills yoga instructor Bikram Choudhury, the practice of Bikram yoga is physically strenuous and technically exacting. Bikram yoga classes consist of 24 standardized postures and two pranayamas, or breathing exercises, performed twice over the course of 90 minutes. In addition, all classes are held in rooms heated to at least 90 degrees F -- a practice that, according to Choudhury, is intended to allow for greater flexibility, improved detoxification and reduced risk of injury.
Requirements
In order to qualify for the official Bikram teacher training program sanctioned by Bikram Choudhury, students must complete at least six months of regular Bikram yoga practice at an approved studio, provide a letter of recommendation from their instructor and be at least 21-years-old. Students must fill out an online application as part of the admissions process. Training may be available at other affiliated Bikram studios in your area; however, only training held at approved studios will result in certification recognized by Bikram Choudhury and eligibility for employment at an official Bikram yoga studio.
Curriculum
The Bikram curriculum covers everything from the Bikram posture series and teaching techniques to both traditional and subtle anatomy and physiology, yogic philosophy, nutrition, pathology and business promotion and preparation. The official program at Bikram's Yoga College of India requires participants to attend 90 days of residential training, during which the above-mentioned instruction takes place in the form of mandatory lectures, yoga classes and posture clinics.
Cost
Because of its duration, breadth, specificity and potential for lucrative career-building, Bikram yoga training is more expensive than some other yoga teacher training options. Programs range from about $5,000 to $7,000, and training from Bikram's Yoga College of India cost $10,900 for combined tuition and accommodation as of 2011.
Considerations
Bikram yoga instructor training is an expensive and time-consuming pursuit. If you are simply interested in deepening your yoga knowledge or teaching a simpler style, you may want to consider a less intensive training program. That said, the Bikram instructor training curriculum includes valuable guidance regarding business practice and even franchise opportunities: if you are looking to make a successful career out of your Bikram yoga practice, a Bikram teacher training program is an ideal choice.
Member Comments