The Difference Between A Good & Great Yoga Teacher?

The Difference Between A Good & Great Yoga Teacher?

When leading a new yoga teacher training (ytt) there are always a few students who are interested into becoming great yoga teachers. 

So some form of the following question always comes up in a ytt: what’s the difference between a good and a great yoga teacher? In this blog, I will try to answer that question.

What Make A Good Yoga Teacher?

So what makes a good yoga teacher, let’s look at that first:

Knowledge and understanding of yoga: A good yoga teacher has to have a deep understanding of the different poses, techniques, and principles of yoga. They should be able to clearly explain the benefits and proper alignment of each pose, as well as provide modifications for students with injuries or limitations or disabilities.

The ability to create a safe and welcoming environment: A good yoga teacher creates a safe and welcoming environment for all students, regardless of their level of experience or ability. They should be able to adjust the class to meet the needs of the students, and should be able to provide modifications/adjustments and assistances as needed.

Ability to connect with students: A good yoga teacher is able to connect with their students and create a sense of community in the class. They should be able to adapt their teaching style to meet the needs of the students and should be able to create a sense of trust and openness in the class.

A passion for yoga: A good yoga teacher is passionate about yoga and is able to inspire and motivate their students to continue their practice. They should be able to convey their love of yoga and help students to see the benefits of the practice.

Professionalism: A good yoga teacher is professional in their approach to teaching. They should be punctual, prepared, and respectful of their students and the studio or facility where they are teaching. They should also be able to handle any challenges or issues that may arise in a calm and professional manner.

What Makes A Great Yoga Teacher?

Now what are the qualities of a great yoga teacher here are some:

Adapt to the needs of the students: A great yoga teacher is able to adapt their teaching style and class structure to meet all needs. They should be able to adjust the class to accommodate different levels of experience and ability. And they should be able to provide modifications. again also. 

Encourage students to challenge themselves: While a great yoga teacher should create a safe and welcoming environment, they should also encourage students to challenge themselves and push their boundaries. They should be able to provide guidance and support as students explore their limits and strive for growth (this is physically and mentally) .

Foster a sense of community: A great yoga teacher is able to create a sense of community in the class and help students to feel connected to each other. They can create an atmosphere of support and should encourage students to share their experiences and challenges with each other (which is how students learn).

Inspire and motivate students: A great yoga teacher is able to inspire and motivate their students to continue their practice. They should be able to convey the benefits of yoga and help students to see the positive impact it can have on their lives.

Continuously learn and grow: A great yoga teacher is always learning and growing as a teacher. They should be open to new ideas and approaches. They should be willing to continue their education and training to stay current in the field.

In The End

I think the best point on being a good yoga teacher versus a great yoga teacher is: a good yoga teacher can be somebody who is not so much living the lifestyle of a traditional yoga teacher but they know the stuff.  And they provide good safe yoga classes. A great yoga teacher is not just confident and provide safe yoga classes, but also have a presence which allows you to be completely yourself and where you feel your ego going away around them.