The 200-hour yoga teacher training course (YTTC), established in 1999 by Yoga Alliance, was designed to standardize the training of yoga teachers. Traditionally, this training was imparted directly from guru to student. With the initiative of a small group of individuals under Yoga Alliance in the US, a minimum of 200 hours of training was mandated to help preserve and enrich the roots, traditions, and contemporary application of yoga. Under Yoga Alliance, the foundational 200-hour training offers a robust foundation in yoga techniques, philosophy, anatomy, and ethics. This became the standard across different yoga organizations around the world, aiming to train future yoga teachers.
But not everyone who trains under 200-hour YTTC wants to be a yoga teacher. Usually, most yoga students and enthusiasts are looking for somewhere to deepen their yoga practice, to learn more about yoga, to understand why the asana classes are done that way and some are meditation, maybe what is the difference of the styles in yoga. While others wanted to take a break from their usual routine and saw the therapeutic benefits done by yoga to them, or maybe some wanted to look after their mental health through taking this course. While others still, wanted to take further studies and they wanted to learn a different style of yoga discipline or maybe someone might wanted to pursue teaching yoga. For whatever reason an individual takes this course, it is a good foundation for someone wanting to learn more about yoga.
We are all students, always.
Now that you have made your decision, what should you consider when evaluating a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training Course (YTTC)?
The Yoga Alliance has established "Elevated Standards," which introduce more rigorous and updated requirements for Registered Yoga Schools (RYS) and instructors. These standards focus on a competency-based model and emphasize ethical conduct through a Code of Conduct and Scope of Practice. They provide clearer curriculum categories, including Techniques, Training, Anatomy, Humanities, and Professional Essentials, while ensuring live interaction in online training. The overarching goal of these standards is to enhance the quality, consistency, and ethics of yoga instruction. They prioritize practical skills, a deeper understanding of the practice, and professional accountability, shifting the focus from mere training hours to demonstrable knowledge and ethical considerations.
The Global Online Yoga Association (GOYA) notes that the standards set for the GOYA-CYS200 (GOYA Certified Yoga School 200 Hour) credential aim to strike a balance between structure and flexibility for yoga schools. They recognize the rich tapestry of yoga and its myriad expressions around the world. Their standards serve as foundational pillars, ensuring core competencies are met so that new teachers are well-equipped with the essential tools and knowledge they need.
At first glance, the prospect may feel intimidating. Do I need extensive yoga practice? Must I have years of experience with asanas? Am I required to be flexible?
In October 2025, Damayan School of Yoga & Wellness (Damayan Yoga) was recognized as a Registered Yoga School (RYS-200) by Yoga Alliance for its 200-hour Hatha Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training program. Furthermore, in September 2026, Damayan Yoga achieved certification as a Certified Yoga School (CYS200) under the Global Online Yoga Association (GOYA).
The 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Course (YTTC) is under Hatha Vinyasa Yoga. You will learn the timeless and classical style of Hatha and the fluid and dynamic sequencing of Vinyasa.
The YTTC may be offered in three formats: an intensive program over 28 consecutive days, a modular format spanning 3-4 months with weekly sessions, or a weekend schedule extending over 15 weekends for 4 months. All sessions will take place in a classroom setting at a designated venue. Each day will last approximately eight to nine hours, including breaks.
The course adheres to the Elevated Standards set by Yoga Alliance and encompasses the following core curriculum:
- Techniques, Training, and Practice
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Yoga Humanities
- Professional Essentials
The core curriculum is composed of twelve core competencies:
1. Techniques, Training, and Practice
- Asana
- Pranayama & Subtle Body
- Meditation
2. Anatomy & Physiology
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Biomechanics
3. Yoga Humanities
- History
- Philosophy
- Ethics
4. Professional Essentials
- Teaching Methodology
- Professional Development
- Practicum (Practice Teaching)
A typical day will follow this schedule:
**7:00 - 7:30 AM**: Daily Morning Sadhana (15 to 30 minutes, including meditation & mindfulness, pranayama, Surya Namaskar)
**7:30 - 9:00 AM**: Breakfast and Personal Time (90 minutes)
**9:00 - 10:30 AM**: Hatha or Vinyasa Yoga (90 minutes)
**11:00 AM - 12:00 PM**: Lecture (1 hour)
**12:00 - 1:00 PM**: Lunch (1 hour)
**1:00 - 3:00 PM**: Assisting, Observing, or Practice Teaching (2 hours)
**3:30 - 5:00 PM**: Lectures and Consultations (90 minutes)
**5:00 PM**: End of Session
The total duration for each day is 8 to 9 hours. *Schedule may vary depending on the pace of the core curriculum.*
Would you like to be a yoga teacher? Or perhaps wanted to deepen your practice in yoga? Start by answering a few questions in the application form HERE.
