200-hour Yoga Training: What to Expect and How to Choose
If you want a solid foundation in yoga and a credential to teach, a 200-hour yoga training is the standard start. Many schools in India offer RYS (Registered Yoga School) 200-hour programs that meet Yoga Alliance curriculum standards. You learn practical poses, breathing, basic anatomy, teaching skills and yoga philosophy — enough to teach beginner classes and deepen your own practice.
What a 200-hour course includes
Most 200-hour programs cover core topics: daily asana practice, pranayama (breath work), basic meditation, alignment and injury-safe practice, and an introduction to yoga history and philosophy. Expect anatomy sessions focused on movement and safety, plus methods for sequencing a class and using props. Schools usually require teaching practice where you lead classes and get feedback, plus written or practical assessments and a course logbook.
Format varies. Residential courses in India often run 3–4 weeks full time with immersive practice and group work. Online or blended courses stretch over 2–6 months and fit around your schedule. Both formats can qualify you for an RYT-200 certificate if the school is registered with Yoga Alliance, but check accreditation details before you enroll.
How to pick the right 200-hour program
First, decide your goal. Do you want to teach right away, or deepen personal practice? If teaching is the goal, pick a school that emphasizes teaching practice, class feedback, and practical assessment. If you need flexibility, a reputable online program with live sessions and mentorship can work.
Ask these questions before you sign up: Who are the lead trainers and what is their experience? What is the daily schedule and student-to-teacher ratio? Is the school registered with Yoga Alliance or another recognized body? How many teaching hours and assessment types are included? What support is there after certification?
Budget matters. In India, residential 200-hour courses vary widely—basic programs start low and boutique or luxury retreats cost more. Online options are usually cheaper but compare what’s included: live hours, recorded lessons, assessment, and mentor feedback.
Prepare before the course. Practice a few times a week, build basic strength and flexibility, and read a short primer on yoga history or anatomy. Bring an open mind: the training will challenge your body and thinking. Keep notes and record teaching practice; these become valuable tools when you start teaching.
After certification, get practical experience by offering community classes or assisting senior teachers. Consider continuing education—specialties like prenatal, kids, or therapeutic yoga add value. Many graduates register as RYT-200 to access job listings and professional networks.
A 200-hour training gives you a clear starting point: skills to teach, tools to practice safely, and a framework for continued growth. Choose a program that matches your goals, ask clear questions up front, and commit to regular practice during and after the course.
What is the 200-hour yoga teacher training?
The 200-hour yoga teacher training is an immersive, foundational course designed for those aspiring to become yoga instructors. It's a comprehensive program that typically spans over a few weeks or months, covering essential yoga philosophies, postures, and teaching techniques. It's not just about mastering the poses, but also learning how to effectively teach and inspire others. Graduates of this program are usually eligible to register with Yoga Alliance as Registered Yoga Teachers. It's a transformative journey, not just a course, that deepens your own practice while preparing you to teach others.