I was NEVER going to put YFFR Instructor School online.....and then I changed my mind.
As the founder of Yoga For First Responders (YFFR), I've held a staunch belief in the in-person nature of our Instructor School. Why? Well, the crux was to ensure a level playing field where everyone, regardless of their prior yoga experience, could immerse themselves in our research-backed YFFR training protocol.
It's not unusual at YFFR's Instructor School to see firefighters, fresh to yoga, sitting beside seasoned yoga teachers with certifications through Yoga Alliance International. This mix is not accidental; it stemmed from a realization that traditional yoga training often carried what I call "training scars." These scars inadvertently created barriers or, at worst, triggered traumas for first responders. Those approaching our training with a beginner's mind, devoid of such ingrained approaches, succeeded most in teaching yoga to first responders. In addition, this approach allowed us to thread seemingly two different cultures into the same fabric, which made many realize that they are not so different.
it's not unusual to see firefighters, fresh to yoga, sitting beside seasoned yoga teachers
However, as the times change and evolve, so do methodologies. Two of the four levels of our Instructor School have already found a home online. This shift in perspective stemmed from reevaluating the essence of our in-person sessions. The heart lay in practical teaching, demonstration workshops, aligning drills effectively, and mastering the art of instruction—skills that a 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) theoretically possesses after their Yoga Teacher Training (YTT).
What's left, then? The YFFR approach and protocol, the science behind it, cultural competency in public safety, practice, and certification requirements—are all feasible online. The pandemic pushed us to embrace more efficient teaching methods, making online learning not only accessible but also normalized.
The pandemic pushed us to embrace more efficient teaching methods, making online learning not only accessible but also normalized.
Moreover, my background in acting has made recording instructional content a more seamless process. But beyond these pragmatic considerations, the most pivotal reason for this change is you—the persistent, daily requests flooding our inbox for online certification training. Your enthusiasm and trust in us as experts supporting public safety through yoga, breathwork, and mindfulness have spoken volumes.
So, with great excitement, we're thrilled to unveil the YFFR Instructor School Bridge Course for 200-Hour + RYT (ISBC)—the bridge from a registered yoga teacher to a certified and licensed YFFR instructor.
introducing YFFR Instructor School Bridge Course for 200-Hour + RYT — the bridge from a registered yoga teacher to a certified and licensed YFFR instructor.
Key Details of the ISBC:
Note: Only those with a 200-hour RYT certification may enroll in ISBC. You must provide documentation of completing a 200hr+ YTT when registering.
Release Date: March 4, 2024 (registration opens February 20th!)
Beta Group Opportunity: A select group can register for the Bridge Course at a significant discount in exchange for feedback on the course.
Registration List: Complete the form HERE to be notified as more details are released, and you have a chance to join our beta group!
Duration: Structured as an 8-week program but adaptable to individual pacing.
Curriculum: Short video lessons, quizzes, short and long written questions, yoga classes, practice teaching uploads for feedback, certification requisites, and monthly live support.
Certification Path: Successful completion grants access to the YFFR Instructor Network for licensing. Licensing gives you access to materials, curricula, and teaching opportunities.
The ISBC is a comprehensive, intensive training program designed to effectively equip you with the skills and knowledge to support public safety personnel through yoga and mindfulness practices and access the research-backed YFFR Protocol. It's our answer to your persistent requests, and we're eager to embark on this online journey with you.
Stay tuned for further updates, and join us as we bridge the gap between YTT and serving those who serve us all.
