What is Iyengar Yoga known for? (part 2: the best of the best teachers)

Iyengar Yoga is known for:

1. being a method with roots in tradition
2. creating the best of the best teachers
3. accommodating a huge variety of students

Regardless of the reason for taking classes, anyone who attends an Iyengar Yoga class is taught how to be a student of yoga. If you come to class because you want to fix a physical pain – you are a student. If you come to class because you want to cultivate a spiritual connection – you are a student. If you come to class to get in shape – you are a student. And if you come to class because you want to teach – you first must be a student.

In Iyengar Yoga studentship has to be established before any amount of teaching can commence. Once the student has had enough experience studying the art of yoga then, guided by the mentor teacher, the art of teaching is explored. And when the mentor deems the mentoree to be ready he or she may apply for certification. The candidate then must pass a four part test administered by the Iyengar Yoga National Association of the United States. In the assessment process itself, candidates are carefully observed and evaluated as they demonstrate asanas and Pranayamas and as they teach a class of students. It is the rigor and thoroughness of this process which produces some of the best yoga teachers in the world.