Introduced in the United States by B.K.S. Iyengar in the mid-20th century, Iyengar yoga is a wide-reaching style based on the use of props and specific anatomical terminology to achieve precise alignment and therapeutic results. Certification as an Iyengar yoga teacher involves a set eligibility criteria and, unlike some other teaching styles, a lengthy and exacting training process.
Eligibility
According to the official B.K.S. Iyengar Yoga website, candidates for Iyengar yoga teacher certification should have at least three years' worth of Iyengar yoga practice experience before considering or applying for a training program. Iyengar yoga certification programs also require applicants to maintain a daily personal practice, attend at least three classes per week and obtain membership in the Iyengar Yoga National Association of the United States, IYNAUS, one year prior to applying. Additional eligibility assessments may be performed as part of the admissions process.
Application
The application for Iyengar Yoga teacher certification includes the following: proof of current membership in the IYNAUS, reference to a mentor and recommending teachers with accompanying recommendations, a completed application form and selected training venues. For a certification manual and further application details, visit the IYNAUS website, located in the Resources section.
Training
Initial Iyengar yoga teacher training spans a minimum of two years and involves the introductory level I and II examinations. These first two training levels primarily cover guidance in personal practice, clarity of instruction, student adjustments, proper use of props and understanding of potential student difficulties, and examinations include a theory paper, a demonstration of asanas and pranayama practice, and a demonstration of teaching skills. Candidates are only eligible to teach and/or pursue advanced training after successful completion of these first two introductory level courses and examinations.
Certification Levels
After the primary certification levels, introductory I and II, Iyengar yoga certification trainings progress from junior intermediate I to III, senior intermediate I to III, junior advanced I to III and finally senior advanced I to II.
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