A Simple Guide to Yoga Certification Titles & How to Earn Them
Introduction
Yoga certification titles can be confusing, especially for new practitioners and aspiring teachers. Understanding these titles helps you choose the right training program and progress in your yoga teaching journey. This guide breaks down common yoga certifications, their requirements, and how to earn them.
1. Common Yoga Certification Titles
A. Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT)
The RYT (Registered Yoga Teacher) credential is awarded by Yoga Alliance, the most widely recognized yoga certification body.
RYT-200 – Requires completion of a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training (YTT).
RYT-500 – Requires completion of a 500-hour YTT (or a 200-hour YTT plus an additional 300-hour training).
E-RYT 200 (Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher) – Requires 200 hours of training + 1,000 teaching hours.
E-RYT 500 – Requires 500 hours of training + 2,000 teaching hours
B. Certified Yoga Therapist (C-IAYT)
For teachers interested in yoga therapy, the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT) offers the C-IAYT (Certified Yoga Therapist) credential. It requires:
Completion of an IAYT-accredited 800-hour yoga therapy training.
2+ years of practice applying therapeutic yoga.
C. Specialty Yoga Certifications
Many teachers pursue specialty training beyond standard RYT certifications, such as:
Prenatal Yoga Teacher (RPYT) – Focuses on yoga for pregnancy and childbirth.
Children’s Yoga Teacher (RCYT) – Specializes in yoga for kids.
Trauma-Informed Yoga Certification – For working with trauma survivors.
Adaptive & Accessible Yoga Certification – For teaching individuals with disabilities or limited mobility.
2. How to Earn a Yoga Certification
Step 1: Choose the Right Yoga Teacher Training (YTT)
Decide which level of certification aligns with your goals:
200-Hour YTT – Best for beginners who want to start teaching.
300/500-Hour YTT – For deepening expertise and expanding teaching skills.
Specialty Certifications – For niche areas like prenatal yoga, kids’ yoga, or yoga therapy.
Step 2: Select a Yoga Alliance-Registered School
Ensure the training program is accredited by Yoga Alliance, IAYT, or another recognized body. Look for:
Experienced lead teachers (E-RYT 500 or C-IAYT preferred).
A curriculum covering asana, anatomy, philosophy, and teaching methodology.
Student reviews and testimonials.
Step 3: Complete Your Training & Practicum
A YTT program typically includes:
In-person or online coursework (200, 300, or 500 hours).
Teaching practicums to gain hands-on experience.
Written exams and final teaching demonstrations.
Step 4: Register with Yoga Alliance (If Applicable)
After completing a Yoga Alliance-accredited YTT, you can register as an RYT-200 or RYT-500.
Yoga Alliance registration is optional but enhances credibility.
Step 5: Continue Your Education
To maintain your RYT status, complete 30 hours of continuing education every 3 years, including:
10 hours of in-person training.
20 hours of self-study (reading, online courses, workshops).
3. Choosing the Right Certification for You
Consider the following factors when choosing a yoga certification:
Do you want to teach general yoga classes? → Start with an RYT-200.
Do you want to specialize in a niche area? → Pursue a specialty certification.
Are you interested in therapeutic applications of yoga? → Consider an IAYT-certified yoga therapy program.
Do you want to deepen your knowledge and credibility? → Advance to RYT-500.
Conclusion
Earning a yoga certification is an empowering step that allows you to share the practice of yoga with others. Whether you choose to start with a 200-hour YTT, advance to RYT-500, or specialize in yoga therapy or prenatal yoga, each certification enhances your skills and credibility as a teacher.