Grandfathering Pathway (RYT Only)
We recognize that many qualified yoga teachers have developed their skills outside formal certification systems. The Grandfathering Pathway exists to acknowledge real-world teaching experience while maintaining professional standards.
This pathway is limited to Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) designations only:
- RYT 200
- RYT 500
It does not apply to:
- ERYT (Experienced levels)
- RYT-Therapy 300
Who This Is For
This pathway is designed for teachers who:
- Have consistent teaching experience
- Have developed competency through practice, mentorship, or independent study
- Are actively teaching or have taught in real-world settings
Experience Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate:
RYT 200 (Grandfathered)
- Minimum 2 years of teaching experience
- Minimum 300–500 teaching hours
RYT 500 (Grandfathered)
- Minimum 4+ years of teaching experience
- Minimum 800–1,000 teaching hours
Experience must be:
- Verifiable (references, studios, or student base)
- Recent or ongoing
Competency Assessment (Required)
Grandfathering is not automatic.
All applicants must complete a baseline competency assessment, which may include:
- Video submission of a full class or teaching segment
- Demonstration of cueing, sequencing, and safety awareness
- Basic understanding of anatomy and teaching principles
Applicants who do not meet competency standards will not be approved.
Why This Exists
Most registries reward hours completed.
We recognize ability demonstrated.
This pathway allows experienced teachers to:
- Receive formal recognition
- Join a professional registry
- Validate their skills without repeating entry-level training
Important Notes
- This is a limited pathway and may be removed or adjusted at any time
- Approval is not guaranteed
- Standards are enforced to protect the integrity of the registry