TOP 5 THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN A YOGA TEACHER TRAINING

You don’t need to be an advanced yogi—or even want to teach—to join a yoga teacher training (YTT). A 200-hour training is a transformative journey that goes far beyond the mat. It’s an immersive experience that shifts your perspective, deepens your self-awareness, and helps you connect more fully with yourself and the world around you.

Whether you go on to teach or simply integrate the teachings into your life, YTT can be a powerful step toward discovering your most authentic, wholehearted self.

I’m Celeste Cusumano. I completed my own 200-hour YTT at Laughing Lotus in NYC back in 2016, followed by a 300-hour in India at Sampoorna Yoga in 2019. Since then, I’ve founded Asana Soul Practice and created our own 200-hour teacher training program. Since 2018, I’ve led over a dozen cohorts and graduated over 200 new teachers—many of whom are now some of the most beloved members of our yoga community.

If you’re considering a YTT, here are the top 5 things to look for when choosing the right one for you:

1. The Schedule: Immersive, Yet Accessible

A great training schedule keeps you deeply immersed in the material without overwhelming your life. Look for a structure that balances intensity with spaciousness. For example, at Asana Soul Practice, our 200-hour training runs every other weekend over 10 weekends—giving students time between sessions to reflect, rest, study, and integrate what they’re learning.

The best schedules allow for real-life balance while maintaining consistent momentum.

2. The Syllabus: A Well-Rounded Curriculum

Your YTT should cover a comprehensive range of topics: asana, yoga philosophy, anatomy, Sanskrit, meditation, and more. A truly enriching program will offer a balance between the physical and philosophical aspects of yoga.

Look for bonus modules that excite you—like Ayurveda, intro to Yin or Restorative Yoga, trauma-informed teaching, prenatal yoga, or business of yoga. These extras can add real depth to your training.

3. The Teachers: Experience Matters

The quality of your training depends heavily on who is teaching it. Do your research:

• What are their credentials?
• How long have they been teaching yoga?
• Do they have experience leading teacher trainings?
• Can you meet or speak with them before committing?

Personal connection is important. Don’t hesitate to ask for a call or to sit in on a class to get a feel for their teaching style and energy.

4. Testimonials & Community Feedback

Word of mouth matters. Read or watch testimonials from graduates. Even better—talk to alumni directly. Are they currently teaching? Did they feel prepared after graduating? Did they feel supported throughout the training?

Some studios include graduates as part of their teaching team. This is a great sign—they’re walking proof of the training’s impact and quality.

5. Application vs. Payment Link: Red Flag Alert

Be cautious of any YTT program that allows you to enroll simply by clicking a “Buy Now” button without an application or interview. A good training should be as much about fit as it is about enrollment.

At Asana Soul Practice, we personally connect with every applicant before accepting payment. This ensures the training is right for them—and they’re right for the training. It also helps us build a supportive, cohesive group from day one.

Bonus: Other Factors to Consider

• Pricing: Is it equitable and in line with other local trainings? Are there payment plans, scholarships, or work-study options?
• Membership Perks: Does it include unlimited classes or studio access during the training?
• In-Person vs. Online: If you can, choose in-person. The connection, community, and hands-on practice are simply irreplaceable.
• Teaching Practice: If you want to teach, make sure there’s plenty of practicum time. If your training is all lectures and no practice teaching, that’s a red flag. You should leave confident and prepared to lead a class.

At our training, we prioritize ongoing teaching practice throughout, so students are ready to teach by graduation—not just in theory, but in reality.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a yoga teacher training is a big decision. It’s not just about learning yoga—it’s about deepening your relationship with yourself and your practice. Take your time, ask questions, and trust your gut.

Whether you go on to teach or simply carry the teachings into your life, YTT has the power to transform you in ways you never expected.