The Right Yoga Class & Instructor

By STEPHANIE OAKES

The truth is, standards for yoga instruction aren't entirely clear, even in the most reputable gyms or with the most heartfelt instructors. So, the question is -- can the gym teacher who's reinvented themselves into a yoga instructor be Qualified? Certified? Well, when it comes to my body, I need to know...I'm not really the type to follow just anybody into a head or shoulder stand even if they do have my best interest at heart! So, here are the basic questions you should ask before joining any yoga class:

• How long have you been practicing yoga (aside from teaching other classes), and what is your own practice?
   
• You want someone who practices yoga -- not including the classes they teach, says Rama Berch, founder of the Master Yoga Foundation in San Diego. Ideally that person is also still taking classes, indicating that they're growing in their own understanding and expertise.
   
• Where, for how long and in what style(s) did you train? If an instructor received most of his or her training online, DON'T attempt it.
   
• Where else have you taught yoga? Many teachers who teach in corporations or gyms also teach at established studios, this IS a good sign.
   
• Are you registered by Yoga Alliance? This is one barometer of good training.
   
• What style of yoga do you teach, and why did you select that one? This will tell you whether you have philosophical compatibility with the instructor and whether their style of yoga matches yours.
   
• A good yoga teacher (just like any other instructor) first demonstrates, then circulates, helping students attain postures. However, they should ask to adjust you first -- don't be shy about saying you'd rather not increase your range of movement or even refrain from attempting certain poses.
   
• At the beginning of the class, teachers should ask if anyone has any healthconditions--and they should help you modify your positions.
   
• A teacher who performs rather than teaching should really not be teaching -- and really what are you going to get out of it?