Yoga Instructor Careers Information
Yoga is a type of fitness that involves breathing exercises, physical postures, and meditation. Yoga is considered one of the six schools of Hindu philosophy, but it has associations with meditative practices in Buddhism and Jainism as well.
The practice of yoga has been growing in popularity in the U.S. There are a variety of styles taught, and though they all incorporate the same poses, each school has a different emphasis.
Yoga instructors demonstrate and teach groups and individuals the different yoga positions and routines, such as downward-facing-dog and sun salutations. Yoga instructors are responsible for the generally safety of the participants, and keep a close eye on students ensure each individual knows the proper techniques to prevent muscle strains or aches.
Yoga instructors work in health clubs, yoga, and pilates studios, health clubs, and in individual clients homes. Their responsibilities vary depending on the employment setting.
Yoga instructors who work in smaller facilities may have a variety of administrative duties in addition to teaching, like giving tours, signing up new members, and working the front desk; whereas someone working in a larger setting might be required to sell their services to a certain amount of clients within a given pay period.
Yoga Instructor Careers Path
There are several ways to get into a career as a yoga instructor. A variety of training programs are offered, ranging in length from weekend seminars to two-year courses. Some instructors begin by taking yoga with a skilled instructor, and eventually are offered assisting or substitute teaching opportunities.
Those who wish to pursue teaching more seriously generally begin a formal training program. There are many accrediting bodies for yoga instruction schools, though the most widely recognized in the U.S. is The Yoga Alliance.
The training standards established by the Alliance require at least 200 training hours, which include a specified number of hours in techniques, teaching methodology, anatomy, philosophy, and other areas. Certification and continuing education requirements may vary by institution and employment type.
If you’re looking to advance into a management or supervisory position, a bachelor’s degree in exercise science, physical education, kinesiology, or a related field, along with experience, may be a requirement. Some organizations may require a master’s degree for these positions, as well as general office and managerial skills.
Yoga Instructor Careers Compatible Personality Traits
Flexible, calm, spiritual, helpful, enjoys working with others.
Yoga Instructor Careers Salary Expectations
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 228,170 fitness trainers and aerobics instructors were employed in May 2009. The average annual salary was $30,670. The middle 50 percent earned between $19,860 and $45,720. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $16,430, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $62,120.
The industries with the highest levels of employment were recreational industries, followed by civic and social organizations. The highest paying jobs were in educational support services, followed by religious organizations.
Yoga Instructor Careers Job Outlook
Employment opportunities for fitness workers is expected to grow by 29 percent over the 2008-2018 decade, which is must faster than the average for all careers. This rise is due to an increasing number of people who are spending time and money on fitness. Preventative medicine is changing the way people think about their health, and businesses are even beginning to add fitness programs into their employees benefit packages.
Opportunities are expected to continue to be great in health clubs, fitness facilities, and other fitness settings. Part-time jobs will be easier to find than full-time positions. Those with formal degree in fitness-related subjects will have the best opportunities, and those who incorporate wellness and new technology issues into their services will be in high demand.
Slightly Off the Footpath
Dietitian
Massage Therapy
Physical Therapy
Sources: bls.gov; yogaalliance.org
