In 2016, yoga was recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage. The yogic teachings are even considered a form of healing art. To deepen their own yoga knowledge, many movement enthusiasts therefore choose the path to becoming a yoga teacher.

If you would like to deepen your knowledge and connection to your yoga practice, or if you wish to share the beneficial effects of yoga with others, then training to become a yoga teacher is the right path for you.

This article provides an overview of yoga teacher training in Germany. We cover the differences between the various training options, the prerequisites you should meet, and finding the right school. The most frequently asked questions about the training will help you prepare for this path.

3 good reasons to become a yoga teacher

Become a yoga teacher to inspire yourself and others.

A yoga teacher training course not only opens up new career opportunities, but also has far-reaching effects on your personal development.

#1: You are aiming for a career that fulfills you and has meaning.

The demand for yoga is constantly increasing. Many people are seeking relaxation and a connection between body and mind. As a yoga teacher, you help them manage stress and strengthen their relationship with their own body. This role is of great importance in a society that is constantly stressed and overstimulated.

#2: You deepen your own practice.

For many yoga students, the motivation for teacher training stems from the desire to expand their knowledge of yoga. Some students want to use their newly acquired knowledge solely to deepen their own practice and not make yoga their profession. This, too, is a good reason to become a yoga teacher.

#3: A yoga teacher training course can change your life.

The teachings of yoga not only enhance your physical abilities but also contain spiritual insights that drive your personal development. They create the foundation for a life in harmony with yourself and your environment.

What types of yoga teacher training are there?

Yoga teacher training programs vary depending on the yoga style and duration . Popular types of training include traditional Hatha Yoga, flowing Vinyasa Yoga, and intensive Ashtanga Yoga. Teacher training programs for styles such as Iyengar, Aerial, and Bikram Yoga are also offered in Germany. Our article " Which Yoga Style Suits You?" provides a good overview of the ten most popular types of yoga.

Besides the traditional yoga teacher training, there's also yoga trainer training . The name alone doesn't reveal much about the differences, so it's important to know that trainer training focuses primarily on physical fitness and not on spirituality. This training isn't a holistic concept and only lasts a few weeks. Furthermore, as a yoga trainer, you won't teach in a yoga studio, but you can teach classes in a gym.

Another difference is the duration of the training. There are so-called block courses, where you complete the entire teacher training in one uninterrupted period. Alternatively, you can attend short seminars over a longer period, which usually take place on weekends, or take an online course.

How long does it take to become a yoga teacher?

Fast and intensive or slow and thorough.

Depending on the type of training you choose, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several years to become a yoga teacher.

The yoga block training

During a block training course, yoga becomes your central focus for 4-6 weeks. Your daily life is then completely dedicated to the teachings of yoga, and you learn in a very intensive way. A good quality training course comprises at least 200 hours.

The part-time yoga teacher training

This type of yoga teacher training usually lasts between one and four years and often takes place on weekends. The advantage of this type of training is its compatibility with work and other daily commitments. Furthermore, this format offers ample time to internalize what has been learned. However, there is also the risk that the new knowledge will be lost in the chaos of everyday life.

The Yoga Teacher Online Course

Taking a course online offers you flexibility. You decide when you learn and how much time you want to invest in each learning unit. While the course content is delivered digitally through videos, the final exam takes place in person with an examiner.

Each of these course types offers advantages and disadvantages that you should weigh up according to your life situation and your motivation for undertaking yoga teacher training. In a yoga instructor training course, the focus is more on the fitness and relaxation benefits, while in a yoga teacher training course you delve much deeper into the philosophy.

An online course is flexible, but requires independent learning. Choosing a multi-year training program or an in-person block course brings yoga into focus for a while, allowing you to build a close relationship with your instructor and other participants. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there are also online training programs that offer regular video conferences with your yoga instructor.

What do you need to become a yoga teacher?

Live yoga and do good.

A good yoga teacher doesn't need to master all the unusual and complicated poses. However, you should have been practicing yoga for two to three years before starting your training. Your personal life experience, compassion, and ability to confidently guide others also play an important role. Some yoga schools therefore set a minimum age of 25.

Good teaching often requires years of practice. It's best to find as many students as possible to practice with: your parents, your friends, or by offering free yoga classes to refine your personal teaching style.

This practical experience complements the theoretical knowledge you acquire during your training.

What should I learn in a good yoga teacher training course?

From asanas to philosophical foundations and didactics.

The content of the training varies depending on the chosen yoga style and training format. However, there are some topics that should definitely be covered:

• Yoga poses and techniques of the chosen yoga style (asanas, pranayama and meditation)

• Anatomical basics and pathology (e.g., regarding chronic pain and postural problems)

• Contents of yoga philosophy (e.g. sacred texts such as Yoga Sutra and Bhagavad Gita)

• Methodology and didactics for your yoga lessons

Unlike many coaching certification programs, a certification alone is not an indicator of high-quality training. Therefore, you should definitely research beforehand what content is covered and how much practical experience you can expect.

A bonus is the opportunity to observe yoga classes and even lead your own practice sessions. If a yoga school adheres to the standards of a yoga association, this is a further indication of high-quality training.

Is yoga teacher a state-recognized profession?

No. The profession of yoga teacher is not officially recognized by the state. This means it is neither legally protected nor regulated. Therefore, not only can anyone who is interested become a yoga teacher, but they can also offer training courses without having to meet specific qualification criteria. That's why it's important to do thorough research to find a trustworthy training institution.

Some schools advertise with state accreditation, which, however, refers solely to the school's status and not to the qualification itself. To better regulate the situation of yoga teachers, instructors have joined together in associations such as the BDY ( Professional Association of Yoga Teachers in Germany) and the EYU ( European Yoga Union ).

These associations set minimum standards for yoga teacher training. The standards of the American Yoga Alliance are also used as a benchmark by many schools.

Therefore, when choosing your school, you should check the principles according to which the education is structured.

Find the right yoga school

Be in harmony with your teacher.

For a solid training, you can consider yoga schools that meet the BDY requirements . However, there are also many independent websites that present the best yoga teacher training programs and compare their advantages and disadvantages.

Tip: If you know a yoga teacher who inspires you, ask him where he did his training and which school he would recommend.

Your first criterion should be the style of yoga you want to teach. The next step is to select schools that offer this style and compare them.

Once you've found the right yoga school, all you have to do is register to make your dream a reality.

Time for a new path?

Follow your heart and teach yoga.

The decision to complete a yoga teacher training course is not one you should make hastily or impulsively. If you have been actively practicing yoga for several years and have long felt the desire to take your practice to the next level, then you should follow that intuition.

You already know that teacher training is right for you and you want to make yoga your philosophy of life? Then start looking for the right yoga school for you.