24/07/2025
Yoga Teacher vs. Fitness Instructor
So often they are lumped into the same category. But they are actually two very different things. Let's set the record straight.
A Fitness Instructor inspires and teaches people to stay physically fit. They show you how to strengthen muscles, lose weight, increase endurance, among other things. A common goal of fitness is to make the body look aesthetically pleasing. Fitness instructors typically put a lot of hard work into beautifying their physical form and empower others to do the same.
A Yogi, on the other hand, honors their body but does not obsess over it. They see the physical body as just one layer, the outer shell of a profound, multi-dimensional, ever-fluctuating, cosmic manifestation. Part of a Yoga teacher's role is to encourage physical fitness, because they know that stability and ease are foundational requirements to prepare the body for Yoga. But a Yoga teacher does much more than teach stretching and movement exercises.
A Yoga Teacher shows us how to access and work with the physical, energetic, mental, emotional, and spiritual expressions of who we are. Their role often mirrors aspects of a physical therapist, psychologist, and clergy all rolled up in one. A well-trained Yogi will teach you how to cleanse and purify your body, regulate your nervous system, release tension and trauma, and harness control over the mind...and that's just the beginning. A Yoga Teacher is a conduit for ancient wisdom and their ultimate role is to guide you back to your spiritual core.
Although the minimum requirements to become a certified Yoga teacher are not terribly demanding (or well regulated), some Yoga teachers spend a lifetime, and tens of thousands of dollars, training and specializing in the various dimensions of their field.
Does this contradict what you thought you knew about Yoga?
This is not a "better than thou" post. One is not superior to the other. Fitness is good! Fitness instructors are skilled and important! But, traditionally speaking, their role is different to that of a Yoga Teacher. I feel called to make this distinction. For the sake of an ancient tradition that I highly revere, and for the sake of a role that I hold dear. For the sake of all the Yoga Teachers out there who are dismissed, under-rated, under-paid, and lumped into a label that doesn't quite do them justice.
There is no right or wrong reason to practice Yoga. Approaching the practice with the intention to get physically fit, or even a desire to be physically attractive, is a reasonable endeavor. Both goals are attainable with Yoga. But please know that Yoga is more than that. Be open to going deeper. Come for a nibble... but consider staying for the feast!
For the record, I am not a fitness instructor, but I know some good ones and happy to make a referral if that is what you are looking for 😊
