Iyengar Yoga Certification

What is Certification?RIMYI Assessment Certificate

The phrase “Iyengar Yoga” describes the method of yoga developed by B.K.S Iyengar and his family. Certified Iyengar Yoga Teachers (CIYT) are educated in the yoga method set forth by B.K.S. Iyengar. They have passed a standardized assessment and maintain ongoing education, practice, and commitment to the Iyengar Yoga method.

To be granted a certification credential, teachers must pass an assessment of standards in three categories: a demonstrated practice of asanas, a written exam, and demonstrated teaching skills.

B.K.S. Iyengar developed all the essential requirements for certification and rules governing certification. The Ramamani Iyengar Yoga Institute (RIMYI) in Pune, India, periodically updates these requirements and rules. IYNAUS is responsible only for the administrative aspects of the Assessment Process in the United States. RIMYI in India provides certificates of assessment.

As of August 14, 2007, the name “IYENGAR” associated with “YOGA” was registered as a trademark and is protected in the United States to ensure that yoga associated with the Iyengar name reflects the work of B.K.S. Iyengar.

The trademark protects the teachings of Mr. Iyengar and the professional integrity of CIYTs. It represents years of study, practice, and strict dedication to the Iyengar method.

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Levels of Certification

There are five distinct levels of certification in Iyengar Yoga, recognized globally and in the U.S. Each level has its own syllabus of poses, required knowledge, set of skills, and responsibilities. IYNAUS administers the assessment of Levels 1, 2, and 3. Currently, Level 4 and Level 5 are assessed directly by the Iyengars at RIMYI in Pune, India.

Refer to the current RIMYI Certification and Assessment Guidelines for a detailed description of the levels. The IYNAUS Assessment Manual outlines the assessment process and what it entails to assess at each level. This manual is available for purchase in the IYNAUS Store.

What it Means to be a CIYT

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