Whether you want to teach Iyengar yoga or just increase your own understanding of the form, training programs are available to help you. Before you select a school, consider the goals of your training and how you learn, as well as the needs of your particular lifestyle. A good program will have certified instructors and ensure that you have a thorough understanding of Iyengar yoga and how to practice it upon graduating.
Iyengar Yoga
B.K.S. Iyengar developed Iyengar yoga, a form that emphasizes the subtleties of every pose. These poses and postures are typically held for much longer amounts of time than those in other styles of yoga, allowing you to focus on the alignment of your body's muscular and skeletal system. Iyengar yoga also utilizes props like belts, chairs, blocks and blankets, all of which allow people with various conditions, needs and injuries to enhance their practice. According to "Yoga Journal," this style of yoga is the most popular one in the United States.
Programs
There are many kinds of yoga training programs, and choosing one is an important decision that requires consideration. Once you have determined that Iyengar yoga is the style in which you want to be trained, look for schools that offer this style as an option. If you take Iyengar yoga classes, ask your teachers where they received their training and if they can recommend any reputable programs. Visit the campuses and talk with the students to get a feel for the school before you enroll.
Instruction
You can receive instruction for your yoga training in several ways. Some programs are offered in informal settings, while others take place on campuses. You may want to receive intensive training over the course of several weeknights or weekends or enroll in a yearlong program that requires you to live on a campus and take classes daily. Also ask yourself if you learn better in small or large groups, as well as how much hands-on experience you want to acquire. The individual schools can give you this and more information to help you make your decision.
Considerations
Training and certification standards will depend on the schools and style of yoga you are learning, but reputable ones tend to require 200 to 500 hours of training in order for you to become certified. Do not be shy about asking questions of your program regarding certification, costs and the qualifications of its teachers. Also, consider consulting your doctor to make sure that you do not have any health conditions that may prevent you from practicing or teaching Iyengar yoga.
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