Your First Yoga Teaching Job
How to make a living doing what you love. By Deven Sisler
You did it! You graduated your first 200 hour yoga teacher training. Now comes the exciting question: where do you begin teaching?
Start with your everyday life: notice the communities and spaces you already move through. Yoga doesn’t only belong in studios: you can teach anywhere there is open floor. Gyms, recreation centres, libraries, churches, workplaces and local shops are great to consider. Outdoor spaces like parks or beaches are perfect for seasonal classes. You may be paid directly and can offer donation-based or sliding-scale pricing. Of course, studios are a valuable starting point. If your home studio offers you a class time, say ‘yes’ regardless of the slot. Early mornings, late evenings, or weekends get your foot in the door and offer experience. Be proactive: ask how to join the substitute list and what the audition process looks like. If you are exploring a new studio, take classes with different teachers, build relationships and inquire about opportunities. Many studios offer a base rate with bonuses depending on class size, so it is helpful to understand each studio’s payment structure.
Private sessions and corporate yoga can take time to establish, and are often the most financially sustainable paths. Meeting clients in their homes can reduce overheads, while hosting privates through a studio offers a more structured, supported environment. Either avenue requires organisation— clear communication, invoicing and consistency are key.
As you gain experience, typically after teaching 50 to 150 classes, you may notice a natural niche emerging. This is a great time to offer your first workshop. Choose a topic you are passionate about, set a date a few months in advance, and create a clear proposal for a studio. Set the price and time of your workshop at about 1.5 times your regular class rate. Once it’s scheduled, share it regularly with your students, friends and fellow teacher training graduates — your community is your strongest support.
It’s important to be realistic about your time, energy and financial needs. If your schedule is limited, choose one or two avenues and commit fully. If you need steady income, consider pairing teaching with another job while you grow. Factor in not just teaching time, but also commuting, planning, setup and follow-up. Above all, prioritise reliability. Showing up week after week creates a foundation for growth that no training can replicate, allowing your voice and community to develop. When you’re just starting out, a ‘say yes’ mindset is helpful; in my early years, it built confidence and versatility across student populations. It’s also important to develop strong boundaries around what you commit to, so you remain dependable, avoid burnout and give your best to the opportunities you choose. Finally, reflect on your process through journaling after classes to help you process challenges, celebrate progress and stay connected to your purpose. Say ‘yes’, stay consistent and trust that your students will find you as you continue to grow.
Deven Sisler is a published author and yoga teacher trainer specialising in Kids Yoga & AcroYoga. Learn more at: DevenSislerYoga.com
Om Magazine
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