How to Prepare for Your Yoga Teacher Training: Tips, Tricks and What to Expect

Ready to begin a journey of self-discovery, growth and transformation? Congratulations on signing up for your Yoga Teacher Training Course (YTTC) in Derby.

This immersive experience will deepen your practice, expand your knowledge and set you on the path to becoming a certified yoga teacher. The YTTC is no walk in the park, and it should be taken on with thought, care and commitment. To make the most of it, it helps to prepare well.

What to expect from the course

Our 200-hour course is guided by Yoga Alliance International and designed as a thorough, well-rounded foundation for your yoga journey. Here’s what it involves.

Ancient practices from traditional texts

You’ll develop and begin to master practices drawn from the traditional yoga texts. Connecting with yoga’s rich history lets you deepen your own practice and gain the knowledge to share it with others.

Philosophy and your personal approach

Yoga is a holistic approach to life, not just a set of postures. You’ll discuss and debate yoga philosophy in the context of your own approach, building a deeper connection with yoga and how it can help you and others.

Eastern and Western approaches

We value both Eastern and Western approaches to health. You’ll compare, contrast and consider them in relation to body, mind and soul, so you can bring different elements into your practice and teaching.

A reflective, deep practice

A core aim is to help you develop a reflective and deep practice. By exploring a range of styles alongside traditional practices, you’ll understand more about the mind-body connection and nurture your self-awareness.

Assessments

The course includes ongoing journal reflections, written assignments, discussions, and live teaching sessions with feedback. These let you show your skills and understanding, and refine your practice as you go.

Homework and reflection

We encourage you to keep a practice journal and write a short reflection piece each month. This helps you become a reflective practitioner, noticing your progress, challenges and insights.

In person, with online back-up

The course is taught in person. If extenuating circumstances arise, such as a pandemic, we’ll provide online sessions so your learning and support carry on.

Accreditation

When you finish, you can register with Yoga Alliance International or Yoga Alliance Professionals UK. If you’d rather use the course for personal growth and self-study, that’s fine too.

10 tips to help you prepare

1. Get to know the curriculum

Before you arrive, take time to read through the YTTC200 curriculum. Order the study materials and start on the pre-reading in your Welcome Letter. Knowing what’s coming helps you prepare mentally and set intentions for your learning.

You might find it helpful to create a KWL grid in your journal: what you already Know, what you Would like to know and, at the end, what you Learned. Setting an intention or goal is a great way to get into a learning mindset.

2. Strengthen your practice

A solid foundation in yoga is essential. Come to regular classes, in person or online, to strengthen your practice. Try different styles to broaden your understanding and prepare for the many parts of the curriculum.

3. Cultivate a mindful lifestyle

Yoga is a way of life, not just a physical practice. Bring mindfulness into your everyday routine with meditation, journaling or breathing exercises. This will make you more receptive during the training.

4. Brush up on philosophy

Get to know the core course texts, such as the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, the Bhagavad Gita and the Hatha Yoga Pradipika. This background will enrich your understanding of the philosophy, which plays a big part in the YTTC200. Our reading list is a good place to start.

5. Stay hydrated and eat well

Physical and mental stamina matter on an intensive training. Start nourishing your body with a balanced diet and plenty of water. Cut back on caffeine and processed foods, and choose fresh fruit, vegetables and whole grains to keep your energy steady.

6. Invest in good yoga gear

Make sure you have comfortable, durable kit. Invest in a good mat, comfortable clothing and any props you need for home practice.

You can borrow all the equipment at the studio, but we ask you to bring your own mat. It will be your “home” throughout the course, and it’s important to build your practice on the same mat. Feeling comfortable helps you concentrate on learning.

7. Prepare for self-reflection

Your YTT will bring moments of self-discovery and introspection. Be open to exploring your emotions, thoughts and beliefs. It may be challenging at times, but it leads to real personal growth and authenticity as a teacher.

If you’ve never kept a journal, why not start? A gratitude journal is a great way to begin and to build joy. Simply list three to five things you’re grateful for each morning. You’ll soon realise life is good and there’s a lot to be happy about.

8. Connect with past participants

Talk to people who have completed the YTTC200, in Derby or elsewhere. Ask for their advice and listen to their experiences. Their insight can help you navigate your own training.

9. Keep an open mind

Come to the course with an open mind and heart. Be receptive to new teachings and different perspectives. Learning is a continuous process, and being open to change will make the experience all the more transformative.

Try listening to yoga ethics podcasts to get a feel for the pitfalls and challenges facing the yoga world.

10. Rest and relax

In the days before your course starts, get plenty of rest. You’ll arrive refreshed and ready to absorb everything that awaits you.

Ready to blossom

Your YTTC200 isn’t only about becoming a certified teacher. It’s about going deeper into the essence of yoga and self-discovery. Embrace every moment with enthusiasm, and you’ll have a fulfilling start to your journey as a yoga teacher.

Get ready to spread your wings. Find out more about the 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training.