Bikram Yoga is a dynamic and challenging yoga practice that has gained popularity around the world. Also known as “26 + 2 Yoga”, it is a style of yoga that has risen in popularity in recent years. It was developed in the 1970s by Bikram Choudhury and consists of a series of 26 poses and 2 breathing exercises practiced in a heated room.
The room is kept between 95-105°F with 40% humidity to promote sweating and flexibility. Though the high heat is a defining factor, it is the set sequence of postures and breathing that makes Bikram yoga unique.
Practicing Bikram yoga has been shown to provide many benefits, including improved flexibility, strength, balance, and cardiovascular health. It may also help reduce stress, ease depression, and treat conditions like high blood pressure and arthritis. The heated environment and set sequence of Bikram yoga poses set it apart as an effective and increasingly popular yoga practice.
To become a certified Bikram Yoga instructor, one must complete a rigorous training program that includes both theoretical and practical components.
Bikram Yoga Instructor Training
Bikram Yoga instructor training is a demanding and comprehensive program that requires a significant commitment of time and effort. The program is designed to provide aspiring instructors with a deep understanding of the Bikram Yoga practice, as well as the skills and knowledge needed to teach effectively.
The training program typically lasts anywhere from two to nine weeks and includes 300+ hours of coursework. During the program, participants will engage in a variety of activities, including:
- Practicing the Bikram Yoga sequence
- Studying the benefits of postures and therapeutic applications
- Learning about human anatomy and physiology
- Understanding the principles of alignment and adjustment
- Exploring the role of nutrition in overall health and wellness
Certification
Upon completion of the training program, participants will be eligible to apply for certification as Bikram Yoga instructors. Certification is granted by the Bikram Yoga College of India, which is the official governing body for the practice.
To become certified, applicants must demonstrate a thorough understanding of the Bikram Yoga sequence and be able to teach it effectively. Certification also requires a commitment to ongoing professional development and continuing education.
The Role of the Bikram Yoga Instructor
As a Bikram Yoga instructor, your role is to guide students through the Bikram Yoga sequence, providing clear and concise instruction while also offering encouragement and support. Instructors must be knowledgeable about the practice and be able to answer students’ questions about the postures, alignment, and benefits.
In addition to teaching the sequence, instructors must also be able to create a safe and supportive environment for their students. This includes understanding the importance of proper alignment, providing modifications and adjustments as needed, and being aware of any injuries or limitations that students may have.
The role of the Bikram Yoga instructor is to help students deepen their practice and achieve their goals, whether that means improving their flexibility, building strength, or simply finding peace and relaxation on the mat.