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CHOICES, CHOICES Intensive vs extended yoga teacher training; local vs overseas. What’s right for you? By Vidya Heisel
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When considering a yoga teacher training, one of the first decisions is whether to take an intensive course or spread the training out over time. While both formats have their benefits, it’s important to choose what aligns best with your lifestyle and learning style.
Intensive trainings are immersive and focused, allowing you to step away from daily life and fully dedicate yourself to the practice. However, many people assume that doing an intensive overseas – such as in Bali or India – will also double as a travel experience. The reality is that you’ll be spending most of your time in the classroom.
Some more appropriate questions might be how qualified are the teachers? How comfortable is the classroom and the practice hall? What is the food going to be like? It could be advisable to save some money on travel and spend it instead on a good quality training.
On the other hand, trainings that are spread out over several months can be challenging for those balancing work and home responsibilities. It can be difficult to maintain focus and continuity when sessions are spaced apart, and the experience may feel less immersive.
A great middle ground could be a hybrid training. At my yoga retreat centre in Andalusia, I offer a format where students complete the theoretical material online at their own pace, and then join us in person for a week-long intensive. During that week, we focus on hands-on practice, teaching, feedback, and real time connection. This approach provides flexibility while preserving the depth and focus of an intensive.
Ultimately, the best training is the one that integrates well with your lifestyle and provides you with a thorough training that will set you on the right path for success.
Vidya Heisel is the director of Frog Lotus Yoga Academy and runs yoga teacher training programmes at her award-winning retreat centre, Suryalila, in southern Spain. Visit: froglotusyogainternational.com and suryalila.com
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