Yoga is not merely a technique, but an entire philosophy developed in 3000 B.C. in the Indus Valley, and is open to multiple interpretations. One of the benefits of this is that on one hand you can have relaxed, meditative yoga and on the other you can have power yoga. But, by the same token, it is impossible to have standardization of any sort, including teacher training. That is why it is important to consider a number of different aspects other than just the certification of the yoga instructor, even though that is extremely important. Yoga instruction is ideal when it encompasses both the science and the art of yoga. The best way to choose a yoga instructor is by attending a free introductory class and then to assess him using some of the pointers below:

Your Well Being

Your well being is the first and the foremost concern. Yoga, just like a number of activities like weight training, martial arts, etc. does injure some participants. This can best be avoided by following proper technique. On the other hand, some participants may not be able to get into certain positions despite pushing themselves as much as they can. A yoga instructor who is overly aggressive, or attempts to push your body into positions it cannot achieve on its own may end up causing injury to his students. An ideal yoga instructor would also have modifications for poses that his students cannot are not yet ready for and would have adequate knowledge of the human anatomy to prevent injuries. He would also enquire after existing physical conditions of his students like arthritis, atherosclerosis, varicose veins, etc.

Certification

This is a must-do before signing up for any yoga lessons. While certification is not everything, it is definitely evidence that the yoga instructor has been trained and certified in yoga lessons. A degree in a field of exercise or fitness would be a definite plus point. Certification from a fitness certifying organizations like the American Council on Exercise (ACE) is also an additional benefit. These degrees and certification attest to the expertise of the instructor as well as his knowledge of fitness and health.

Conduct in Class

This is one of the most important aspects of judging a yoga instructor. In the free class, look for how the instructor conducts the yoga lessons. Does he/she simply get the students to adopt different poses one after another? Does she/he take the time to explain the pose, the philosophy behind it and its benefits? Is she/he very rigid and unwilling to make modifications for students who cannot adopt a pose? Is he friendly, approachable and sensitive? Are you likely to feel vulnerable during her/his yoga lessons?

Professionalism

It is important to know that your instructor is professional even beyond yoga instructions. Does she/he respond to your queries, questions, doubts and complaints in a timely and responsible fashion? Does she/he keep regular office hours? If an instructor is also involved in sales of any sort, it is likely to result in pressure on students to buy his merchandize, so it is just better to avoid such instructors.