How to Find the Right Yoga Teacher

With standards for yoga instruction evolving, enthusiasts need to ask questions before plunging into an asana with an instructor they’ve never met. Here are some questions experts recommend:

How long have you been practicing yoga (aside from teaching), and what is your own practice like? You want someone who practices-not counting the classes they teach-daily or every other day, says Rama Berch, founder of the Master Yoga Foundation in San Diego. Ideally that person is also still taking classes, indicating that they’re growing in their own understanding and expertise.

Where, for how long and in what style(s) did you train?

If an instructor received most of his or her training online, you may not want to attempt advanced poses. Similarly, if the teacher is not experienced in the class’ particular style, you may want to look for someone who is.

Where else do you teach? Many teachers who teach in corporations or gyms also teach at established studios, often a good sign.

How long have you been teaching?

Are you registered by Yoga Alliance? Some good teachers still are not, but it is one barometer of good training.

What style of yoga do you teach, and why did you select that one? This tells you whether you have philosophical compatibility with the instructor and whether his or her style of yoga matches your needs.

Once you’ve evaluated the teacher, evaluate the class. Take a few classes from different instructors to get familiar with the different types of yoga. Whatever the style, every class should have a period of tranquillity at the beginning, a focus on breathing along with the asanas and a relaxing finish.

A good yoga teacher demonstrates, then circulates, helping students attain postures through adjustments. At the beginning of the class, especially one with new students, teachers should ask if anyone has any health conditions. If not, the student should alert the teacher.

A teacher who makes forceful adjustments to students or spends too much time performing should raise red flags about his or her ability.