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a teacher's training--how much is enough for you?

 
 

Bryan Alexander
Enthusiast

Feb 5, 2002, 8:21 PM

Post #1 of 6 (568 views)
a teacher's training--how much is enough for you? Can't Post
I'm curious what everyone thinks about what qualifies someone to teach Iyengar yoga. Of course, the various associations have their standards, and sometimes, if you live in certain parts of the world, you have to take what you can get.

I feel like a person needs to have studied with a certified teacher for at least two years.

Any other opinions?

James
User

Feb 6, 2002, 7:19 AM

Post #2 of 6 (551 views)
Re: a teacher's training--how much is enough for you? [In reply to] Can't Post
Hi Bryan,

Just to chip in my two cents, I prefer the strictly controlled, highly trained teaching program which Guruji has setup. I think it is critical for new Iyengar Teachers to teach the yoga with exactly the same content, and as similar a style ad possible, to how Guruji would impart it.

Also, students could really injure themselves in asanas, and injure themselves very badly in pranayama, I gather, so the students must be protected through their teacher(s) being as highly trained as possible.

Of course there are grades of teachers; they cannot learn everything before they take their first class. Everyone's learning process, i.e that of both teachers and students, is ongoing.

I hope that does not sound sychophantic. Guruji's success in popularising (his interpretation of Hatha) yoga must be a pointer to something special in his approach.

Kind Regards, James.Smile

Bryan Alexander
Enthusiast

Feb 6, 2002, 2:56 PM

Post #3 of 6 (542 views)
Re: a teacher's training--how much is enough for you? [In reply to] Can't Post
And what does Mr. Iyengar's teacher training entail? Here in the U.S., the prerequisites for becoming a certified Iyengar teacher are somewhat flexible. Most interestingly, one is expected to teach for at least a year before becoming certified. I wonder what all kinds of tragedies could befall the students in that year!

Snow Leopard
User

Feb 24, 2002, 3:41 AM

Post #4 of 6 (448 views)
Re: a teacher's training--how much is enough for you? [In reply to] Can't Post
This is a wonderful question. I'd like to say I feel it's very individualistic. Some people teach a long time and are still poorly qualified; some teach a shorter time and are extremely well qualified. I believe it has to do with what one brings it from past lives, how dedicated to the subject and study one is, how easily one can comprehend and put into practice instruction be it from another teacher, book, video etc. I do applaud those attempting to set standards and do testing, but one thing I feel is important is the followup after the testing is done. It's like cramming answers for a test and getting a good grade but if the information gained isn't put into practical application on a regular basis, one can certainly lose it. Sly
Snow Leopard/Sndyxan/Jyoti are One

Jacky DH
Novice

Jun 28, 2002, 1:53 PM

Post #5 of 6 (253 views)
Re: a teacher's training--how much is enough for you? [In reply to] Can't Post
Well, from what I understand here in the UK, you have to have practised for 4 years, then you have to get a teacher recommendation, then you go to teacher training for 2 years, and you may not pass. I think that is appropriate. My teacher has been practising for 20 years, not sure how long she has been teaching, but she is great. Knowing that she went through all that is comforting to me that she really knows her stuff. She is also very good at letting us know when she CAN'T do certain poses. Makes it more real for the rest of us.

ian teunion
Novice

Jul 3, 2002, 10:43 PM

Post #6 of 6 (201 views)
Re: a teacher's training--how much is enough for you? [In reply to] Can't Post
The structure for teacher training in the U.K. is spot on. I myself am doing teacher training. I feel having to have done four years Iyenger yoga proves a persons dedication to want to become a teacher, plus it's valuable grounding for understanding the postures that have to be taught. The main thing regarding teaching from a novice teacher is that the yoga thats taught is taught in a safe secure manner. Laugh

 
 
 


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