The Best Online Yoga Teacher Certifications, According to Teachers

8 tips for selecting an online yoga teacher training certification program:

Online yoga teacher training programs are a dime a dozen, so it’s important to be able to differentiate legitimate ones that fit your needs and professional goals. 

It’s also important to consider your professional goals, the history of yoga, and how you prefer to teach. 

Make sure it offers Continuing Education (CE) accreditation.

Many yoga teacher training programs offer CE accreditation — a way to ensure that teachers stay active, remain current in their knowledge, and improve their yoga practice to maintain their credentials. 

“Reach out to the administrator or the instructor to see if the online course provides official CE credits,” says Chellaram. “The training should qualify for CE credits with Yoga Alliance or another similar platform,” adds Bondy. 

Find a program that respects yoga history and diverse perspectives.

With yoga classes offered everywhere and pretty pictures all over social media platforms, it can be easy to forget that there is an important history and philosophy behind the practice.

When considering a yoga teacher training, it’s important to choose one that incorporates the history and philosophy of yoga. “Schools that honor yoga’s history and teachers who can competently share yoga philosophy [and] non-physical practices and who actually walk their talk are the best bet,” says Chellaram.  

Bondy also suggests you ask: “Is [the program] speaking about equity, marginalized populations?” to ensure the courses are inclusive to students of all body types and backgrounds.

Consider the instructors’ teaching history. 

Although almost anyone can become a yoga teacher and even train other teachers, not everyone is best suited for the task. “It’s important to look at a teacher’s biography, experience, and tenure teaching,” says Chellaram, who also encourages researching the full curriculum.

If you can, try out one of the teacher’s yoga classes first to get a sense of what to expect.

One of the best ways to know if you like a teacher’s style and way of presenting the material is by taking one of their classes. Experiencing a class can provide a lot of insight before making a big commitment. 

“Take an online class or course from the teacher to make sure the style of yoga and the vibe of the teacher resonates with you,” says Chellaram. 

Talk to graduates of the program.

Chellaram recommends talking to graduates to get a feel for the course and if it aligns with what you’re looking for. It’s a wonderful way to get first-hand knowledge about the experience. Plus, you’re more likely to get honest answers to all your questions. 

Avoid programs that make big promises.

“If any training, workshops, [or] online courses promise you that you will make tons of money — and charge a ton of money in the process — be aware,” says Chellaram, who notes that the yoga industry is not globally regulated (meaning it’s on you to vet programs and use your best judgment).