How To Start Teaching Yoga (Even With Zero Experience)

Beginning your journey as a yoga teacher can be one of the most challenging parts. 

Maybe you’ve just finished your 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training, or maybe you completed training a while ago but weren’t sure where to begin. Either way, transitioning from the structure of a training program to the big, wide world of actually teaching yoga can feel overwhelming.

I get it—when I first completed my training, I struggled with imposter syndrome and was super nervous. I didn’t feel ready to lead a large group with confidence, and that doubt held me back at first.

But guess what? If you’re feeling nervous like I did, you’re definitely not alone! It’s totally normal. Once you start teaching, you’ll get more comfortable with your cues, build confidence, and even start to develop your own unique teaching style. But remember—it takes time and lots of practice!

The most important thing? Just start. 

It’s time to put all that 200-hour training knowledge into action. It doesn’t need to be your forever yoga teaching gig. 

I started by hosting a weekly yoga class for friends and family to get the ball rolling. Teaching people you know can feel a lot less intimidating, and they’ll be understanding as you refine your teaching skills.

Commit to teaching every week to build momentum. If you can, teach in person! If not, invite people to join online. Even if no one shows up, record yourself teaching and watch it back. (I know, it’s painful—but trust me, it’s worth it!)

Stick with it, even when it feels awkward or like you’re not getting anywhere. You will improve. Each hour spent teaching is like reps in the gym. I taught friends and family for a full year before I felt comfortable teaching others, and that’s okay! Your teaching journey will be unique to you.

Remember, feeling nervous or uncomfortable is totally normal. That’s the feeling of you growing and learning. The more hours you log teaching, the quicker your confidence will grow. Before you know it, you’ll feel ready to take on bigger teaching opportunities!

In a previous episode of Full Time Flow, I shared my 7 different yoga teaching jobs and how they pay. Next up, I’ll share the most profitable areas to make an actual income teaching yoga—stay tuned!