Should I Do Yoga Teacher Training?
Here are 5 things to consider before signing up for a Yoga Teacher Training program.
If you’ve ever wondered whether yoga teacher training (YTT) might be right for you, you’re not alone.
I spent over a year asking myself the same question. I loved yoga, I knew how much it meant to me, and I couldn’t shake the thought that maybe I was meant to teach. But I kept talking myself out of it, convincing myself the timing wasn’t right.
When I finally said yes, it turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life. If you’re in that place of wondering, here are five things to think about before making the leap.
1. Know Your “Why”
Everyone comes to YTT for different reasons, and there’s no right or wrong one.
Some people simply want to deepen their personal practice and understand yoga beyond the poses. Others feel called to share yoga with friends, family, or a wider community. And some see it as part of a new life path or career.
When I went in, I thought I knew exactly why I wanted to do it. But once training started, my “why” grew and shifted. I thought I was just going to learn how to teach yoga, but I fell in love with the history, intricacy, and depth of the practice in ways I didn’t expect.
So even if you don’t have a crystal-clear answer right now, that’s okay. Go in with curiosity, and let your reasons evolve along the way.
2. Be Honest About the Investment
YTT is a real commitment.
Most foundational programs are 200 hours, which means weekends of training, lots of practice, and plenty of studying. There’s also the financial investment to consider.
I’ll be honest, I used both of those as excuses not to start. For more than a year, I told myself it wasn’t the right time. And once I finally enrolled, I couldn’t believe how much I had been holding myself back.
Yes, it was work. Yes, it required sacrifice. But it was also one of the most rewarding seasons of my life.
So be thoughtful about the commitment, but don’t wait forever for “perfect timing.” The hardest step is often just saying yes.
3. Find the Right Program and Teacher
Your teacher and community can make or break the experience.
If you already practice at a studio, start by asking about their programs or talking to the teachers you admire.
For me, the decision was clear. My very first yoga teacher, Mary, was someone I trusted deeply. When I learned she had a training program, it felt meant to be. Taking YTT with her and with classmates from my home studio made it one of the most meaningful experiences of my life.
We laughed, cried, practiced together, and supported each other through every step. Those relationships became one of the greatest gifts of training.
If you can, choose a program that offers at least some in-person connection. The community you build is something you just can’t get from behind a screen.
4. Prepare to Be Humbled
YTT isn’t just about learning poses. It’s a deep dive into yourself—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
I learned more about my own strengths and insecurities in those months than I had in years. There were moments of frustration, vulnerability, and doubt.
But that’s also what made it so powerful. Training humbles you in the best way, showing you what you’re capable of and teaching you how to guide others from a place of authenticity.
Expect to be challenged, and embrace it. It’s part of the growth.
5. Consider the Spiritual Discipline
For some people, the spiritual aspects of yoga bring up hesitation.
Maybe you’re not sure how the philosophy fits with your personal beliefs, or maybe you’re just nervous about stepping into unfamiliar traditions.
That’s how I felt too. What helped me was having a teacher I trusted and a community where it felt safe to ask questions.
We had open, respectful conversations about the roots of yoga, and I learned so much just by listening and engaging.
You don’t have to adopt every belief or practice you encounter. Think of it as an opportunity to learn, to be present, to take what resonates with you, and even to reveal God to others.
Yoga is thousands of years old and comes with deep traditions. It’s okay to approach that with humility, curiosity, and authenticity. Learn all you can and use wisdom and discernment to practice living out truth.
Final Thoughts
If yoga teacher training is on your heart, these five things are worth reflecting on.
At some point, there will always be reasons not to do it. But if you feel the call, trust the process and take that first step.
For me, YTT was life-changing. It gave me community, confidence, and a deeper love for yoga than I ever imagined.
Even if you don’t end up teaching, the journey itself will shape you in ways you can’t predict, and if you ask me, that alone is worth it.
I am just here to say…. YOU ARE AMAZING!!!! This article was beautifully written, sooo true, and I am honored to be part of this journey and to be part of this!!! Love you and miss you <3
This is so Beautiful Kinsey . You make me so proud,Thank you for being so authentic and open. I love you and I’m so grateful you chose me to guide you through you yoga training.