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Yoga Teacher Training: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Are you about to embark on a Yoga Teacher Training (YTT) journey? Whether you’re doing it to deepen your practice, learn more about the philosophy of yoga, or start teaching, YTT is a transformative experience that will likely change your life in ways you can’t even imagine yet. But let’s be real for a second—YTT is no walk in the park. It’s intense, challenging, and a bit overwhelming at times. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Here’s a guide on what to expect and how to prepare, so you can walk into your training feeling ready and confident.

1. Expect to Learn a LOT

Online yoga teacher training isn’t just about learning to bend and stretch better. You’ll be diving deep into the world of yoga, and that means covering a lot of ground.

Expect to learn about:

• Asana (Yoga Postures): Not just how to do them, but how to teach them, modify them, and explain their benefits.
• Anatomy and Physiology: You’ll get to know how the body works, how muscles move, and how to prevent injuries.
• Yoga Philosophy: From the Yoga Sutras to the Bhagavad Gita, you’ll explore the ancient texts that form the backbone of yoga.
• Pranayama (Breathing Techniques): Learn various breathing exercises and how to incorporate them into your practice.
• Meditation: Techniques to calm the mind and lead others into a meditative state.
• Teaching Methodology: How to sequence classes, cue students, and find your voice as a teacher.

It’s a lot, but take it one day at a time. You don’t have to know everything right away. Be patient with yourself!

2. Expect to Be Pushed Out of Your Comfort Zone

Yoga teacher training will challenge you, both physically and mentally. You’ll probably do more yoga in a few weeks than you’ve done in your entire life. Expect sore muscles, fatigue, and days where you just want to sleep. But it’s all part of the process! You’ll also be asked to look inward, confront your fears, and maybe even cry a little (or a lot). This is where the real transformation happens. Embrace it. Lean into the discomfort, because that’s where the magic is.

3. Expect Long Days and a Busy Schedule

Get ready for some long days. Most YTT programs pack a ton of information into a relatively short period of time. Expect early morning meditation sessions, hours of asana practice, lectures on anatomy and philosophy, and practice teaching sessions. It can be exhausting, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. You’re immersing yourself in yoga, and that requires time and dedication. Keep your energy up by eating well, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep.

4. Expect to Make New Friends (And Maybe Even a New Family)

YTT is a bonding experience. You’re going through this intense journey with a group of like-minded people, and that creates a strong sense of community. You’ll laugh together, cry together, and support each other. By the end of the training, you’ll likely have made some lifelong friends. Be open, be yourself, and don’t be afraid to connect with others. You’re all in this together!

5. Expect to Teach

Even if you’re doing YTT just to deepen your personal practice, you’ll still be asked to practice teaching. This is where the nerves kick in for a lot of people. But don’t worry, everyone is in the same boat. You’ll practice in a supportive environment, and you’ll learn so much from teaching others. It’s a great way to find your voice, build confidence, and start thinking like a teacher.

6. Expect to Have Your Mind Blown

Yoga is much more than just physical postures. During YTT, you’ll explore yoga philosophy, spirituality, and the deeper aspects of the practice. You’ll learn about concepts like the eight limbs of yoga, karma, and the nature of the self. Some of these ideas might challenge your current beliefs or open your mind to new perspectives. Be prepared for some “aha!” moments and maybe even a few existential crises. It’s all part of the journey!

How to Prepare for Yoga Teacher Training

Now that you know what to expect, let’s talk about how to prepare so you can make the most of your YTT experience.

1. Start a Consistent Practice

If you’re not already practicing yoga regularly, now’s the time to start. Aim for at least 3-4 times a week. This will help build your strength, flexibility, and stamina, so you’re not completely wiped out during training. Focus on a variety of styles to get a well-rounded experience. Try Vinyasa for flow, Hatha for alignment, and Restorative for relaxation. The more familiar you are with different styles and postures, the more prepared you’ll feel.

2. Read Up on Yoga Philosophy

Get a head start on the philosophy side of things by diving into some of the key texts. Here are a few recommendations:

• “The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali”: This is the foundational text of yoga philosophy. It’s a bit dense, but don’t worry about understanding everything on the first read. Just get familiar with the concepts.
• “The Bhagavad Gita”: A beautiful and poetic text that covers the spiritual aspects of yoga.
• “Light on Yoga” by B.K.S. Iyengar: A great book that covers both the philosophy and practice of yoga.

These texts will give you a solid foundation and make the lectures during YTT more digestible.

3. Take Care of Your Body

You’re going to be doing a lot of yoga, so start taking care of your body now. Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and get plenty of rest. If you’re dealing with any injuries or health issues, consult with your doctor and let your YTT instructors know. They can help you modify poses and avoid further injury. Also, consider getting into a regular stretching and foam rolling routine to keep your muscles loose and limber.

4. Practice Meditation and Pranayama

Meditation and breathwork (pranayama) are key components of online yoga classes. Start incorporating these practices into your daily routine. Even just 5-10 minutes of meditation in the morning can make a big difference. Try different types of pranayama, like Ujjayi (victorious breath), Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing), and Kapalabhati (breath of fire). These practices will help you develop focus, calm your mind, and manage stress during training.

5. Get Comfortable Speaking in Front of People

If the idea of teaching a class terrifies you, start getting comfortable speaking in front of people. Practice giving instructions to a friend or family member, or even just talking to yourself in front of a mirror. Join a public speaking group, like Toastmasters, to build confidence. Remember, no one expects you to be perfect. Just start where you are, and you’ll get better with practice.

6. Organize Your Life

YTT is intense, and you’ll need to be fully present. Take care of any personal or work commitments ahead of time, so you can focus on your training. Let your friends and family know that you might be a bit MIA during this time. Prepare meals in advance, tidy up your space, and clear your schedule as much as possible. This will help you reduce stress and stay focused.

7. Gather Your Supplies

Check with your YTT program to see what you need to bring. Common items include:

• Yoga Mat: Invest in a high-quality mat with good grip and cushioning.
• Props: Blocks, a strap, and a bolster can be super helpful.
• Notebook and Pen: You’ll be taking a lot of notes!
• Comfortable Clothing: Bring enough yoga clothes to last you through the week.
• Water Bottle and Snacks: Stay hydrated and keep your energy up.

Having the right supplies will make your experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

8. Set Your Intentions

Before you start your training, take some time to set your intentions. What do you hope to gain from this experience? Write down your goals, both big and small. Maybe you want to build confidence, learn how to sequence a class, or deepen your personal practice. Whatever it is, having a clear intention will help you stay focused and motivated throughout your training.

9. Be Open and Ready to Learn

Come into YTT with an open mind and a willingness to learn. You’ll be exposed to new ideas, perspectives, and practices. Some things might resonate with you, while others might not. That’s okay! Take what works for you and leave the rest. Be open to feedback, ask questions, and embrace the learning process. Remember, you’re a student first and foremost.

10. Take Care of Your Mental Health

YTT can be emotionally intense. You might have moments of self-doubt, insecurity, or even sadness. That’s completely normal. Make sure you’re taking care of your mental health. Practice self-care, talk to someone you trust if you’re feeling overwhelmed, and take breaks when you need to. Remember, it’s okay to not be okay all the time.

Explore our blog “Navigating Online Yoga Teacher Training: Tips and Recommendations,” for expert advice on mastering your virtual yoga journey.

Conclusion

Yoga teacher training is a journey—one that will challenge you, inspire you, and change you. It’s okay to feel nervous or unsure. Just remember that you’ve got everything you need inside you. Trust yourself, trust the process, and enjoy the ride. You’re about to embark on a beautiful, life-changing adventure.