By Dr. Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500
Quite often, people, who are interested in teaching Yoga, want to know what the right course is for them. The following question and answer session refers to questions about our Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Course.
Q: As I was reading your “So You Want to Teach Yoga” book, a couple of questions occurred to me. It was implied that Power Yoga applies to people from the ages of 20 to 30. What I had in mind is to teach to a middle-aged group as well – would that be possible?
A: Yes, it is possible to have classes full of middle-aged students practicing Vinyasa, Power, or Ashtanga Yoga. However, I rarely see large populations of students, in my age group, in the southeastern New England region of the US, who stay with Vinyasa Yoga training for long. I am sure it is different in the big cities, such as Boston, but I did not see large numbers of middle-aged Vinyasa students in Providence, either.
There are also some cultural differences within the same country. For example: It is different in California, where more middle-aged students are physically active.
That being said – some parts of the country are more or less physically active than others. Yet, we all incur some injuries over a lifetime, which can slow one’s physical Yoga practice. Some of those injuries may be due to trauma, work, sports activities, or normal wear-and-tear on the joints.
Q: What if I choose the less strenuous asanas when older people participate in my Vinyasa Yoga class?
A: Some of your students will be able to keep up with your Vinyasa flows, regardless of age. When possible, always give options or modifications; and tell students (of every age and ability) to do their personal best, without competition in mind.
Q: Would it be acceptable, in my Vinyasa class, if there is a predetermined and must-follow sequence?
A: That is what many Vinyasa teachers do. Over time, you will begin to create sequences on your own, but I recommend a pre-determined sequence to start with.
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