How to Choose The Yoga Teacher Training School

So, you’ve felt the call…. Whether you dream of becoming a yoga teacher, deepening your personal practice, or immersing yourself in something more meaningful and transformative, you’re ready to step into the next stage of your journey. This is a moment of exciting new possibilities, and yet, with so many yoga programs available worldwide, it can be hard to know where to begin when choosing a school.

Let’s take a closer look at the key factors that can help you find a yoga school that aligns with your heart, your values, and the path that’s calling you forward.

From Ancient Lineages To Modern Methods: Finding Your Way

The roots of yoga extend back to ancient India, woven through a rich tapestry of philosophical traditions and practices. Today, the global yoga teaching landscape is incredibly diverse, ranging from traditional, lineage-based schools to modern hybrids and a wide range of expressions in between.

With each yoga school offering different perspectives, focuses, and lenses, the ‘right fit’ will look different for everyone. There’s choice — and plenty of it — presenting you with a unique opportunity to choose a school that nurtures your growth in the way that is most authentic to you.

So, while quality and teaching standards absolutely matter, and we’ll come to that later, the first step is to tune into what truly matters to you — and what aligns with your unique path and purpose.

An Invitation To Reflect On Your Interests, Passions, & Values

Are you drawn to the deep spirituality of yoga and the continuity of its traditions?

Are you the type who geeks out over science and anatomy, and whether your scapula is doing the right thing in Downward Dog?

Or maybe it's chakras, energy fields, and all things metaphysical that vibrate your curiosity!

Do you value the community aspect of yoga—learning in a supportive environment, and perhaps one day sharing yoga’s teachings with your own community?

Do you just love it all and want a school that offers both deep-rooted traditional wisdom and a well-rounded experience across all dimensions?

How About Asana Styles?

Do you crave dynamic, high-energy Ashtanga? Love the precision of Iyengar? Prefer the slow-paced, introspective stillness of Yin? Fast, flowy, steady, static, or totally still-it’s all on the menu when it comes to yoga teacher training today!

Maybe you’re all in on one particular lineage, or perhaps you love a mix of everything. Or maybe you don’t know what asana style resonates with you most right now, and want to explore — if you’re looking for the opportunity to discover and learn different styles, a multi-style course might be for you.

Knowing what inspires and excites you can help narrow down the search and lead you to a school that matches your values, interests, and goals.

Listen To Your Why

If you’re not quite sure what lights you up just yet, you could try asking: ‘What’s the why in my yoga practice?

What brought you to yoga? What has it gifted you, and why do you show up to the mat? Spiritual connection, healing, building strength after injury, supporting mental clarity, community, finding quiet refuge in an ever-moving world…and so much more. The reasons we take to the mat are all valid – whether they’re steady, unfolding, or ever-evolving.

Jotting down what yoga has given you, what draws you to practice, and perhaps what you’d like to share, can offer clarity on your motivation and help you find a yoga school that not only teaches yoga but resonates with your journey.

Why consider all of this? Well, while yoga teacher training courses accredited by bodies like the Yoga Alliance must cover a core curriculum, schools can differ significantly in their emphasis, culture, and the teachers’ areas of specialism.

When choosing a yoga school, consider the following:

Is the school grounded in tradition, centered on a specific philosophy or approach, or aiming for a well-rounded integration of all?
Does the school focus on a single asana style or offer explorations of different styles (multi-style)?
What are the teachers’ backgrounds? Are their approaches and areas of expertise aligned with what you want to learn?
How much emphasis is placed on what matters to you most?

Learning Environment & Location

The setting of your yoga teacher training can deeply shape your experience, both on and off the mat. For many, this isn’t just an educational course but a time of personal transformation, so choosing the right environment is key.

What kind of setting inspires you most?

Are you drawn to the serenity of a retreat-style training tucked away in nature, the adventure of jetting off abroad, or do you thrive in the buzz of a city studio?

If you’re seeking an immersion into yoga’s spiritual roots and traditions, studying in Rishikesh, India can offer unparalleled depth in beautiful surroundings.

If you choose to travel for your training, check out the following:

Is the school easy to access from major transport hubs, or is it more remote? Will the school help you with airport transfers, or do you need to arrange these yourself?
Is the school in an area well-served by shops, cafes, and other amenities or do you have to go on more of a trek for these?
Does the school’s program include cultural experiences or visits to places of interest; ashrams, and temples where you can engage with local traditions? Or, do these need to be arranged separately?
Does the school’s environment support the holistic aspects of a yogic lifestyle such as providing guidance on Ayurvedic principles to support your physical, mental, and emotional well-being?
Is the training course residential – including accommodation, and meals, or do you need to arrange these yourself?
If accommodation is included, what’s on offer? Single, or shared rooms? Is it basic or luxury? What are the amenities like?

Community & Support

When you invest in a yoga teacher training course, the people around you matter deeply. This kind of journey often invites you to step outside of your comfort zone, try new things, and uncover new layers of personal growth. The people, the energy, and the support system around the course can really shape your experience.

Are the teachers approachable and engaged?

Do they foster a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive environment?

The best teachers, coaches, or mentors, genuinely care about your growth and want to see you step into your potential. Their goal isn’t personal recognition, it’s seeing you flourish on your own journey.

Take a look at yoga school websites and reviews or testimonials from past students. Their firsthand experiences offer valuable insights into the teachers’ approaches and the school’s culture, and environment.

Is there support beyond the studio?

Does the school provide access to resources and mentorship for your continuing development post-graduation?
If training abroad, find out: will someone meet you at the airport? Will they help you settle in, show you around the local area, and guide you through cultural norms? Or, will you be left to your own devices?

A thoughtful, local team can really make the difference between feeling grounded and having the most enriching, soul-nourishing experience, or floundering around on Google Maps clutching a yoga mat.

Accreditation

Once you’ve chosen a yoga school, it’s important to understand accreditation. This can be seen as a quality assurance marker, indicating that a school meets certain educational standards.

The most widely recognized accrediting body in the global yoga community is the Yoga Alliance. Schools meeting its criteria are designated as Registered Yoga Schools (RYS). Graduates earn an internationally recognized qualification upon successful course completion and can become Registered Yoga Teachers (RYTs) by registering with the Yoga Alliance.

Many yoga studios and teaching venues prefer or even require certification from an accrediting organization. It’s also worth double-checking what credentials are required in the specific region or setting where you plan to teach.

Fees & What’s Included

Before committing to any yoga teacher training course, take a close look at the fees and what’s included to avoid any surprises.

Be sure to check:

Is there a flat tuition fee or are there additional charges for special workshops, study materials, mats or yoga props, certification or registration fees, etc.?
If training abroad, establish whether excursions or cultural experiences are included in the fee.
Be clear on what’s not included, so you can budget accordingly.
If the course is residential, check whether lodging and meals are included in the fee, and of course, the type of accommodation, and where.
Many programs offer discounts for early registration, so it’s worth taking a look.
Understand the cancellation/ refund policy.

Choosing the right yoga teacher training school is a personal journey that goes beyond just the curriculum. It’s about finding a school that resonates with your heart, aligns with your values, offers the type of training that supports your growth and aspirations, and provides transparency so you can make an informed decision. Take the time to reflect on what energizes and motivates you, what your goals are, and what will help you feel supported along the way.

Your yoga journey awaits — may it unfold beautifully!

Student Reviews

What Our Students Think About Us

If you're considering a yoga teacher training program, I highly recommend checking out the program offered here. This comprehensive and immersive training is led by experienced and knowledgeable teachers who provide a supportive and challenging environment for growth and development. The program covers a wide range of topics, including anatomy, philosophy, sequencing, and teaching methodology, and it allows for plenty of hands-on experience in leading classes and giving feedback. The small class size ensures individual attention and support, and the community of fellow trainees creates a supportive and collaborative atmosphere. What sets this teacher training apart is its emphasis on developing personal practice and teaching from a place of authenticity and integrity. The training instills a deep understanding of the principles of yoga and the skills necessary to teach effectively and compassionately. Overall, the teacher training offered here is a transformative and enriching experience that prepares you to become a skilled and confident yoga teacher. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to deepen their practice and share their love of yoga with others.

Michelle Murphy

Canada

I recently completed a 200-hour yoga teacher training at Maharishi Yoga Peeth and it was an incredible experience! Himanshu and Madalina are very inspiring and knowledgeable teachers who made learning fun and accessible. I highly recommend this yoga school for anyone looking to deepen their practice or become a certified yoga teacher. Also apart from the yoga we had really nice experiences and I really enjoyed all the excursions in Rhishikesh! Himanshu and Madalina are the best of the best, and I can't wait to continue learning and growing with them in the future!

Elisa Gramlich

Germany

I just back from 200 hours TT, what an experience, was absolutely fantastic. Himanshu and Madelina are the ultimate dream team, they both work so well together making learning easier and fun to understand. They both have different styles of teaching which works so well and their knowledge is incredible. I was quite anxious as I’ve never traveled on my own or left my family for that length of time, well I will tell you, the 3 weeks went too fast, I could have stayed for six :) I couldn’t recommend anyone enough to book with them, the training is superb and enjoyable, learning fantastic skills to put into practice and teach when you return. I was very fortunate to be there during Holi, we had so much fun, lots of excursions, exploring the culture and celebrations. Quite simply, “They are the best so forget the rest,” I wouldn’t waste time researching other schools. This is the one ⭐️, I can’t wait to progress with more courses with Maharishi Yoga Peeth 🙏

Debbie K

Russia

I would like to wholeheartedly recommend Maharishi Yoga Peeth to all those who embarked on the path of yoga and mindful living. I was participating in 200 hours teacher trainings organized by Maharishi Yoga Peeth in Rishikesh in August 2022 and I can say that this experience became invaluable for me. First of all, I would like to note the professionalism of the teachers, their excellent education and individual approach to each student. As part of the learning process, the human factor always plays a very important role. The teachers of Maharishi Yoga Peeth do everything so that every class goes smoothly and for the benefit of each student. Also, one cannot fail to note the excellent organization of the schedule and the inclusion of wonderful excursions and activities that will be remembered for a lifetime. If you participate in school activities such as retreats and yoga teachers trainings, you can be sure of quality food, sincere responsiveness in case of questions and a high level of competence. Thank you Madalina and Himanshu for such a wonderful experience!!! Looking forward to attending more event organized by You!