Bikram Teacher Training: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started

Preparing for Bikram Teacher Training: What You Need to Know

Before committing to Bikram Teacher Training, it’s important to understand that this program requires a high level of dedication and preparation. Here are some key tips to help you get ready:

1. Start Practicing Bikram Yoga Regularly

While it’s not mandatory to be an expert in Bikram Yoga before beginning teacher training, having a consistent practice is highly recommended. Bikram Teacher Training will involve practicing the 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises daily in a heated room, and this can be challenging for beginners. Familiarizing yourself with the sequence and becoming comfortable in the heated environment will make your experience smoother and more rewarding. If possible, start attending Bikram Yoga classes at least a few months before applying.

2. Understand the Commitment

Bikram Teacher Training is an intensive, 9-week program that involves long hours. It’s a commitment of both time and energy, requiring you to remain fully immersed in the experience. You’ll be practicing yoga for several hours a day, attending lectures, studying anatomy, memorizing posture alignments, and preparing for teaching practice. In addition to the physical demands, the emotional and mental aspects of the program are intense, so it’s essential to enter the training with a clear understanding of the commitment required.

3. Get Your Body in Shape

Bikram Yoga requires strength, flexibility, and stamina. If you’re not already accustomed to this style of yoga, you might want to incorporate some strength training or flexibility exercises into your routine to build up the necessary fitness level. Working on your core, hamstrings, and hips, in particular, can be very helpful for performing the postures correctly and with ease.

In addition to the physical demands of the training, staying hydrated and eating properly will be essential. Bikram Yoga is practiced in a room heated to around 105°F (40°C), and you’ll sweat a lot during each session. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water, maintaining a balanced diet, and practicing proper self-care.

4. Be Ready for Mental and Emotional Challenges

Bikram Teacher Training is not just a physical journey; it’s an emotional and psychological one as well. The intensity of the practice, combined with the long hours and the pressure to absorb a lot of information quickly, can be mentally exhausting. Be prepared to face challenges that push you outside of your comfort zone, both physically and emotionally.

Some trainees find the experience deeply transformative as they confront their limitations, break through mental barriers, and experience personal growth. But the journey isn’t always easy, so it’s important to stay open-minded, patient, and resilient throughout the program.

5. Cultivate a Support System

Given the intense nature of the program, it’s crucial to have a support system in place before and during your training. Whether it’s family, friends, or fellow yoga practitioners, having a network that encourages and motivates you can help you stay grounded during tough moments. Many former students of Bikram Teacher Training recommend staying connected with your classmates after the program for mutual support, as this creates a strong sense of community.

What Happens After Bikram Teacher Training?

Once you’ve completed the Bikram Teacher Training program, there’s still a lot to consider in terms of your career as a yoga teacher. Here’s what you can expect after certification:

1. Obtaining Certification

After successfully completing the program, you’ll receive a certificate that qualifies you to teach Bikram Yoga at studios and centers worldwide. However, you may need to complete additional steps depending on the country or region where you wish to teach. Some areas may require you to register with local yoga associations or fulfill other regulatory requirements.

2. Start Teaching Classes

One of the most exciting aspects of completing Bikram Teacher Training is the ability to teach classes. Your first teaching experience will be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking, but remember that the training has provided you with the foundational skills and knowledge to succeed. It’s normal to feel anxious as a new teacher, but with time and practice, your confidence and teaching abilities will grow.

You may start by teaching beginner classes, or you might shadow more experienced instructors to get a feel for managing different types of students. Many new Bikram instructors initially teach at studios or community centers to build their teaching portfolios.

3. Continued Education and Practice

Becoming a Bikram Yoga teacher is just the beginning of your yoga journey. Like all yoga teachers, continued learning and professional development are crucial to maintaining and expanding your knowledge and skills. Some instructors choose to attend workshops, enroll in advanced yoga teacher training programs, or study additional forms of yoga. Continuing to practice and attend classes is also vital to keeping your teaching fresh and your body strong.

Many experienced Bikram instructors also find that teaching becomes a lifelong learning process. Every student presents a new challenge and an opportunity to deepen your understanding of both the practice and the art of teaching.

4. Expand Your Career Opportunities

As a certified Bikram Yoga instructor, you’ll have a wide range of career opportunities available to you. Beyond teaching regular classes, you may be able to:

• Teach private lessons or small group sessions
• Lead yoga retreats or workshops
• Become a mentor or trainer for future Bikram Yoga teachers
• Work with specific populations, such as athletes or seniors, who may benefit from Bikram Yoga
• Open your own Bikram Yoga studio or wellness center

Bikram Yoga is a well-known brand, and the demand for qualified instructors remains strong in many parts of the world. With dedication, you could turn your passion for yoga into a fulfilling and rewarding career.

Common FAQs About Bikram Teacher Training

1. Can I become a Bikram teacher if I’m new to yoga?

While it’s not required to have years of experience, you should have a solid understanding of the Bikram Yoga sequence and be committed to the practice. If you’re new to Bikram Yoga, it’s recommended that you attend classes and start building a foundation before applying to the teacher training program.

2. How much does Bikram Teacher Training cost?

The cost varies depending on the location and time of year but typically ranges between $10,000 and $15,000 USD. This includes tuition, accommodation (if provided), study materials, and certification, but additional expenses like travel, food, and personal costs are often not included.

3. Is Bikram Yoga teacher training the same as Hot Yoga teacher training?

No, while both Bikram Yoga and Hot Yoga are practiced in a heated room, Bikram Yoga follows a specific 26-posture sequence that is taught in a fixed sequence. Hot Yoga, on the other hand, can include various styles of yoga practiced in a heated room and does not necessarily follow a set sequence.

4. Do I need to be in great shape to do Bikram Teacher Training?

While physical fitness is important, you don’t need to be an expert in Bikram Yoga or super fit to start the training. However, it is advisable to work on your strength, flexibility, and stamina leading up to the program to make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

5. What happens if I don’t pass the training?

If you fail the program or do not meet the required standards, you may have the option to retake parts of the training or receive additional guidance. However, this varies by training center, so it’s best to inquire about their policies beforehand.

Final Thoughts

Bikram Teacher Training is an extraordinary opportunity to become a certified yoga instructor in one of the most popular and respected forms of yoga. It’s an experience that demands both physical effort and mental resilience, but it offers incredible personal growth and the chance to transform your passion for yoga into a rewarding career. By preparing for the intensity of the program, understanding the costs, and fully committing to the process, you’ll be ready to take the first step toward becoming a Bikram Yoga teacher and sharing this powerful practice with the world.