FAQs
What are the weekends like?
The basic rhythm of each weekend is: Friday evenings are for diving deep into discussion, lectures and book work. Saturdays and Sundays are for most of the physical practice.
What are the physical practices like?
While the RVY Teacher Training is ultimately a Vinyasa (aka Flow) yoga teacher training, the practice sessions during teacher training rarely follow a typical “flow” class sequence. Rather, alignment & anatomy are workshopped and studied in detail. Physical practices often run 3-3.5 hours and are very demanding on the mind and body alike. Tending to your endurance throughout the training with plenty of sleep and good nutrition is vital!
Do I have to attend all of the weekends?
Attendance is absolutely required and crucial to the program. So much happens in the group work which cannot be recreated. Therefore, teacher training is a time for an abundance of good nutrition, rest and recharge between weekends. Do everything you can to avoid getting sick. That said, life happens. IF you know you are going to miss a class, let Sarah know ASAP. The time and material must be made up preferably before the next weekend of training. Depending on the material you were absent for, often make-ups are done in a 2-3 hour private session with Sarah, billed to the student at $1/minute. Other reading/written assignments may also be needed. The sooner you know you will be absent, the better. All homework assignments from a missed class will still be required for graduation.
Is there homework?
Yes. Homework is top heavy, meaning the bulk of the reading and written homework is assigned and due during the first part of the training. The homework is a valuable tool that works best when it is completed promptly. Students who keep up with the homework tend to be much better prepared for the second module and for their demonstration classes.
Are there any tests?
Yes. There is a midterm exam at the end of part one and a final exam at the end of the second part. There are also teaching demonstrations.
Will I get to practice teaching?
Yes, absolutely yes! We waist no time getting up on our feet. Confidence can only be developed with a deep knowledge base, solid technique and practice in a supportive environment.
Do I have to have a very strong/flexible body in order to take the teacher training?
You do not need to be a contortionist or stand on your head for any amount of time in order to take the teacher training. That said, the physical practices are intense and physically demanding. We begin training at an intermediate knowledge base of commonly practiced postures.
If you are interested in signing up for teacher training but you are not currently attending vinyasa (flow) classes because of physical limitation, injury, etc, reach out to Sarah for more information and to discuss options.
Is this training affiliated with Yoga Alliance?
No. I have stepped away from Yoga Alliance for a number of reasons. Yoga Alliance is not a governing body. YA is a middle man that charges teachers and studios annually for registering on their website. YA does not oversee training programs, perform due diligence or support qualified, working teachers in any meaningful way. Therefore the Yoga Alliance RYT 200/500hr “certification” credential does not hold any weight or carry much value.
I recommend that teachers and studios avoid Yoga Alliance and, rather, use their resources in valuable, creative ways. It is up to the integrity and accountability of the teacher training faculty to create a cohesive and effective teacher training program. Graduates of the Rogue Valley Yoga Training are invited to join the SYTT registry at no cost to the graduate teacher. Alumni continue to receive support with their on going practice, teaching opportunities, referrals & recommendations from Sarah Sol and the teacher training faculty.
What is the SYT Registry?
The Sol Yoga Teacher Registry is a networking registry. I offer this platform to graduates from teacher training programs as a means to build an online presence that can includes their picture, contact information, links, personal statements, teaching specialties, and more.
I continue to check in with graduates who are actively pursuing teaching jobs and opportunities. The SYT registry simplifies the process for us to refer other facilities to a selection of teachers in the area who have graduated from a rigorous and thorough Yoga Teacher Training Program.
The SYT registry is also my first choice of teachers called for referrals and teaching opportunities
The SYT registry It is 100% voluntary and free for graduates to use as it suites them.
Are there any payment plans or scholarships available?
While there are no scholarships available at this time, there are some payment plans available on a case by case basis. Options can be discussed at your interview.
What if I sign up for only part 1 and then decide I would like to continue to part 2?
Happens all the time! That said, space is limited so do make your request as soon as you know. Your place will only be held in part 2 when you put your request in writing via email and make payment arrangements. Before training begins, priority placement for part 2 is given to current students who are signed up for part 1. However, after the first week of training, students from previous training years will have the option to join part 2 if space is available.