500-Hour Kripalu Yoga Teacher Certification: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I take one of the modules even if I do not plan to complete the entire certification program?
Yes. The modules are open to anyone who has completed a 200-hour Yoga teacher training.
2. Am I required to complete the 500-Hour Kripalu Yoga Teacher Training if I am a certified 200-hour Kripalu Yoga teacher?
No. As a 200-hour certified Kripalu Yoga teacher, you do have to complete 12 hours per year of continuing education (see the certification agreement in your yoga teacher training manual), but you do not have to complete the 500-hour teacher training.
3. Is there any time limit to start or complete?
You may start at any time after your 200-hour certification and take as many of the modules each year as you would like. We would like you to complete all four modules for graduation within 10 years of taking the first 500-hour module.
4. Do I have to apply before I take my first program?
No. You just need to apply before your final module, so that we can check that you have completed the requirements and give you your certificate. If you are not going to apply in advance, be sure that you know about all of the requirements.
5. Is there credit for training completed outside of Kripalu Center?
No. Our curriculum is predefined and comprehensive and needs to be completed in its entirety for you to become a certified 500-hour Kripalu Yoga teacher.
6. Are there any requirements in addition to the courses listed?
Yes. You are required to have taken CPR training, and we prefer that you renew it each year. In addition, you must document at least 100 hours of teaching experience.
7. How many hours are in each module?
Each module offers 75 hours of study.
8. What is the schedule for the modules?
We will begin at 7:00 pm Friday evening and end at 11:30 am on the final Sunday. Required sadhana class is from 6:30 to 8:00 am each day, with teaching sessions from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm as scheduled. Required evening sessions will be scheduled throughout the week.
9. Will I have an opportunity to participate in activities at Kripalu Center during the modules?
Due to the intensive nature of this program, it may be difficult to participate in other Kripalu evening events or receive healing arts services. Healing arts sessions may be scheduled on your arrival or departure days. There may be some evenings off. Scheduling healing arts in advance will insure that you have the opportunity to receive the service of your choice. Yoga classes will be offered as part of the curriculum.
10. What will be the focus of the 2-day retreats within the modules?
Meditation; asana and pranayama; self-inquiry; and special needs.
11. Will there be a graduation that family and friends can attend?
No. The graduation ceremony is open only to the participants of the module within which you complete your certification requirements. Because the modules may be taken in any order, each module will have students who are graduating.
12. Is there anything else I need to know about the curriculum modules for the 500-hour training?
The modules may be taken in any order. As you progress through the modules, teachers who are further along in their own training will mentor those who are in their first or second module. The practicum sessions and involvement in helping develop your fellow yoga teachers will be an integral part of your development and will replace the need to find and hire a mentor. All 300 hours of training are completed within the modules.
13. Still have questions?
For more information about 500-Hour Kripalu Yoga Teacher Training, call 800-848-8702 or e-mail KSY500@kripalu.org.
