Yoga Alliance Curriculum Template • 500 Core Hours (550h with Studio Practice)5 Chapters • 12 Class ModulesLead Faculty Guidance: 75% (375h)

500-Hour Comprehensive Yoga Teacher Training (RYS-500) Curriculum Template

A complete 500-hour curriculum template that bridges foundational 200-hour pedagogy with advanced 300-hour clinical, philosophical, and mentorship study—designed for academies running extended or bridge-style training tracks. Whether you are welcoming your very first cohort or refining a training you have led for years, you can use this chapter-by-chapter curriculum template to plan your weekends, share reading and practice prompts with your faculty, or customize the schedule around your studio's own voice.

Use This Template in Shala (Free)Download Schedule & Hour Log (.csv)Preview Live Studio Sandbox →
🌿 A Steady Starting Point for Your Faculty

Every training has its own rhythm. You are welcome to follow these week-by-week lesson plans as written, or treat them as a calm foundation that you reshape around your teachers' strengths.

🎨 Make It Your Own Lineage

Download the spreadsheet to edit offline with your co-teachers, or open this template inside Shala's Curriculum Designer to rename modules, adjust hours, and add your own reading or video lessons.

✨ Quiet, Effortless Hour Tracking

When your cohort begins—or even if you are already several weeks in—you can connect Mindbody, Momence, or Google Calendar so student attendance and graduation hours stay organized automatically.

Curriculum Balance & Hours Overview

How Hours Are Shared Across Educational Pillars

This guide balances the core 500-hour Yoga Alliance requirement with an optional 550-hour studio diploma path that leaves room for personal practice, reading reflection, and community classes.

Educational PillarRegistry MinStudio DiplomaCore Curriculum Scope & Representative Topics
Techniques, Training & Practice
Code: TTP		180 Hours200 Hours

Advanced sequencing, therapeutic alignment, assist labs, classical pranayama & kumbhaka ratios, yoga nidra, and subtle body mastery.

Complete Asana Family Progression: Standing, Hip Openers, Backbends, Twists & InversionsProgressive Pranayama & Kumbhaka Sadhana Across 40 WeeksGuided Meditation, Mantra Japa & Yoga Nidra Facilitation
Anatomy & Physiology
Code: AP		75 Hours82 Hours

Advanced kinesiology, functional movement mechanics, myofascial meridians, pathology modifications, and nervous system energetics.

Functional Joint Mechanics, Skeletal Variation & Load ManagementMyofascial Meridians, Cardiorespiratory & Autonomic Nervous System PhysiologyPathology Modifications, Hypermobility & Therapeutic Movement Screening
Yoga Humanities & Philosophy
Code: YH		70 Hours78 Hours

Classical texts (Yoga Sutras Books I–IV, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita), Samkhya, non-dual Tantric traditions, Sanskrit, and ethics.

Complete Study of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras (Books I–IV)Bhagavad Gita, Principal Upanishads, Samkhya & Kashmir ShaivismEthical Leadership, Studio Stewardship & Cultural Reverence
Professional Essentials & Ethics
Code: PE		60 Hours65 Hours

Multi-level sequencing architecture, studio operations, sustainable wellness entrepreneurship, equity/inclusion ethics, and mentorship dynamics.

Foundational, All-Levels, Vinyasa Krama & Master Class SequencingStudio Operations, Workshop/Retreat Design & Career Sustainability
Practicum & Lead Student Teaching
Code: ELEC		115 Hours125 Hours

Advanced lead apprentice teaching, hands-on assisting clinics, 1-on-1 private client case studies, feedback observation cycles, and master curriculum design assessment.

Phase I 60-Min Foundational Practicum & Phase V 75-Min Master ClassSupervised 3-Session Private Client Therapeutic Practicum & YTT Clinic Assisting
Total Accredited Program Hours500 Hours550 HoursIncludes ≥75% (375+ hours) delivered directly by designated Lead Trainer faculty across 5 chapters.

Chapter-by-Chapter Curriculum & Lesson Flow

Exploring 12 of 12 class sessions across 5 chapters • Includes suggested teaching flow, postures, partner labs, reading, and reflection prompts.

Chapter 1 • Months 1–2 (Foundations)
110h Yoga Alliance Minimum121h Studio Diploma

Phase I: Foundational Asana Architecture, Functional Anatomy & Classical Roots (Hours 1–100)

Surya Namaskar biomechanics, standing/seated/twisting/backbending posture families, respiratory physiology, and Patanjali's Sutras Books I–II.

Pedagogical Objective:Establish rock-solid foundational alignment, anatomical literacy, vocal clarity, and ethical grounding across the first 100 hours of the 500-hour master track.
RYS500-C1-S01TTP • Master Techniques, Training & PracticeMonths 1–2 • Asana & Pranayama Lab (55.0 Hours)
55h Registry Contact61h Total w/ Self-Study

1. Surya Namaskar, Standing Posture Families, Inversions & Foundational Pranayama

Comprehensive posture clinics covering Sun Salutations A/B, neutral vs. externally rotated standing poses, seated forward folds, twists, foundational backbends, inversions, and Ujjayi/Nadi Shodhana pranayama.

Faculty Attribution: Lead Trainer (E-RYT 500) (Counts toward 75% Lead Trainer synchronous contact requirement)
Suggested Teaching Flow
  • 1Weeks 1–2 (15h): Tadasana, Pada/Hasta Bandha, Chaturanga scapular mechanics, Upward/Downward Dog, and Closed-Hip vs. Open-Hip Standing Postures.
  • 2Weeks 3–4 (15h): Hip openers, seated forward extensions, thoracic twists, prone/supine backbends (Cobra, Locust, Bridge, Wheel prep), and Dirga/Ujjayi/Nadi Shodhana breath.
  • 3Weeks 5–8 (15h): Foundational arm balances (Bakasana, Vasisthasana), 3-blanket Salamba Sarvangasana, Headstand/Dolphin prep, and daily morning sadhana.
Postures & Concepts Explored
  • •50 Foundational RYS-200 Postures (Standing, Seated, Twists, Backbends, Inversions)
  • •Dirga, Ujjayi, Sama Vritti, Nadi Shodhana & Kapalabhati
Practice Teaching & Partner Labs
  • →Daily Morning Sadhana + Posture Breakdown Labs with peer alignment coaching and prop scaffolding.
Recommended Reading

Light on Yoga (B.K.S. Iyengar), Part I & II

Student Reflection & Practice

Complete the 50-Posture Foundational Asana Reference Deck.

Learning Milestones
  • • Demonstrate, modify, and cue 50 foundational postures and 5 pranayama techniques safely.
RYS500-C1-S02AP • Clinical Anatomy, Physiology & BiomechanicsMonths 1–2 • Functional Anatomy Lectures & Labs (25.0 Hours)
25h Registry Contact27h Total w/ Self-Study

2. Musculoskeletal Anatomy: Planes of Motion, Spine, Pelvis, Shoulder & Knee

Covers planes of motion, tension vs. compression, spinal curves and disc protection, sacroiliac nutation, iliopsoas mechanics, SITS rotator cuff, and knee/ankle tracking.

Faculty Attribution: Specialist Faculty (DPT) & Lead Trainer (E-RYT 500) (Counts toward 75% Lead Trainer synchronous contact requirement)
Suggested Teaching Flow
  • 1Block 1 (12h): Axial skeleton, intervertebral discs, pelvic girdle, deep six lateral rotators, iliopsoas, hamstrings, and quadriceps.
  • 2Block 2 (13h): Appendicular skeleton — glenohumeral rhythm, rotator cuff, serratus anterior, carpal tunnel load distribution, and tibiofemoral/patellofemoral alignment.
Postures & Concepts Explored
  • •Skeletal Proportion & Range-of-Motion Assessments
  • •Disc-Safe Forward Folding & Twisting Mechanics
Practice Teaching & Partner Labs
  • →Applied Joint-Action Mapping across 25 core postures.
Recommended Reading

The Key Muscles of Yoga (Ray Long, MD)

Student Reflection & Practice

Foundational Functional Anatomy Exam & Joint-Action Workbook.

Learning Milestones
  • • Identify primary agonist/antagonist muscle pairs and joint actions across all posture families.
RYS500-C1-S03YH • Comparative Yoga Humanities, Ethics & TextsMonths 1–2 • Humanities & Methodology Seminars (30.0 Hours)
30h Registry Contact33h Total w/ Self-Study

3. Historical Lineage, Yamas/Niyamas, Yoga Sutras I–II & Foundational Cueing

Establishes historical roots (Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Yoga Sutras Books I–II), Yamas/Niyamas studio ethics, vocal projection, and the 3-part action cue formula.

Faculty Attribution: Lead Trainer (E-RYT 500) (Counts toward 75% Lead Trainer synchronous contact requirement)
Suggested Teaching Flow
  • 1Block 1 (18h): Vedic-to-Modern timeline, Patanjali's Samadhi & Sadhana Pada, the 8 Limbs, the 5 Kleshas, and Bhagavad Gita Karma/Bhakti/Jnana synthesis.
  • 2Block 2 (12h): Trauma-informed ethics, scope of practice, vocal command, and eliminating passive filler language.
Postures & Concepts Explored
  • •Sutras I.1–II.55 Textual Study
  • •Breath + Body Part + Direction Action Cueing
Practice Teaching & Partner Labs
  • →15-Minute Foundational Sequence Micro-Teaching Rounds.
Recommended Reading

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (Swami Satchidananda); The Bhagavad Gita (Eknath Easwaran)

Student Reflection & Practice

Personal Code of Ethics & Philosophy Reflection Essays.

Learning Milestones
  • • Articulate Patanjali's Eight Limbs and apply the Yamas and Niyamas to classroom leadership.
Chapter 2 • Months 3–4 (200h Milestone)
80h Yoga Alliance Minimum87h Studio Diploma

Phase II: Bell-Curve Sequencing, Subtle Body, Special Populations & 200h Milestone (Hours 101–200)

60-minute class architecture, Koshas/Chakras/Prana Vayus, prenatal/senior adaptations, consensual assists, and 60-minute Phase I Practicum.

Pedagogical Objective:Complete all foundational 200-hour competencies and evaluate each trainee leading a full 60-minute public foundational class before transitioning into the 300-hour advanced curriculum.
RYS500-C2-S01PE • Advanced Methodology & Program DesignMonths 3–4 • Sequencing & Practicum Lab (35.0 Hours)
35h Registry Contact37h Total w/ Self-Study

1. 60-Minute Sequencing Architecture, Consensual Assisting & Phase I Evaluated Practicums

Covers the 7-phase bell-curve sequence, peak-pose reverse engineering, the 4-tier Hierarchy of Adjustment, trauma-informed consent protocols, and evaluated 30-minute and 60-minute foundational practicums.

Faculty Attribution: Lead Trainer (E-RYT 500) (Counts toward 75% Lead Trainer synchronous contact requirement)
Suggested Teaching Flow
  • 1Block 1 (25h): Bell-curve sequencing, ladder flows, mixed-level bus stops, room pacing, and strategic 80/20 observation vs. demonstration.
  • 2Block 2 (15h): Verbal assists, prop mastery, and consensual grounding hands-on adjustments.
  • 3Block 3 (25h): Evaluated 30-Minute Midterm and 60-Minute Phase I Milestone Practicums with full rubric sign-offs.
Postures & Concepts Explored
  • •7-Phase 60-Minute Foundational Class Blueprint
  • •4-Tier Hierarchy of Adjustment
Practice Teaching & Partner Labs
  • →Evaluated 60-Minute Live Community Class (200-Hour Milestone Gateway).
Recommended Reading

Teaching Yoga & Yoga Sequencing (Mark Stephens)

Student Reflection & Practice

Pass the 60-Minute Phase I Practicum Evaluation to unlock Phase III Advanced Mastery.

Learning Milestones
  • • Design and lead a safe, inspiring 60-minute all-levels yoga class.
RYS500-C2-S02TTP • Master Techniques, Training & PracticeMonths 3–4 • Subtle Body & Special Populations Lab (45.0 Hours)
45h Registry Contact50h Total w/ Self-Study

2. Subtle Body Anatomy (Koshas, Vayus, Chakras), Restorative/Meditation & Special Populations

Integrates Pancha Maya Koshas, Prana Vayus, Nadis, Chakras, Dharana/Dhyana meditation, Restorative bolster setups, and prenatal/postnatal/healthy-aging modifications.

Faculty Attribution: Lead Trainer (E-RYT 500) & Prenatal Specialist (Counts toward 75% Lead Trainer synchronous contact requirement)
Suggested Teaching Flow
  • 1Block 1 (20h): Koshas, Vayus, Chakras, Bandhas, 4 portals of seated meditation, and Restorative/Yin foundations.
  • 2Block 2 (15h): Trimester-by-trimester prenatal adaptations, osteopenia/joint replacement safety, and chair yoga variations.
Postures & Concepts Explored
  • •Restorative Bolster Architectures & Guided Meditation
  • •Prenatal & Healthy-Aging Modification Matrix
Practice Teaching & Partner Labs
  • →All-Levels Dual-Track Cueing Lab for pregnant and older-adult students.
Recommended Reading

Eastern Body, Western Mind (Anodea Judith); Relax and Renew (Judith Hanson Lasater)

Student Reflection & Practice

Subtle Body Sequencing Portfolio & Prenatal Safety Matrix.

Learning Milestones
  • • Integrate subtle body themes, meditation, and special-population modifications into all-levels classes.
Chapter 3 • Months 5–6 (Advanced Practice)
105h Yoga Alliance Minimum117h Studio Diploma

Phase III: Advanced Vinyasa Krama, Myofascial Trains & Prana Vidya (Hours 201–300)

Apex arm balances, freestanding inversions, deep backbends, myofascial meridians, Kumbhaka retention ratios, and Yoga Nidra.

Pedagogical Objective:Transition into advanced 300-hour biomechanical kramas, myofascial force transmission, classical breath retention, and 8-stage Yoga Nidra.
RYS500-C3-S01TTP • Master Techniques, Training & PracticeMonths 5–6 • Advanced Asana & Pranayama Lab (80.0 Hours)
80h Registry Contact89h Total w/ Self-Study

1. Apex Asana Kramas (Arm Balances, Inversions, Lotus, Backbends) & Classical Kumbhaka

Advanced posture kramas (Tittibhasana, Astavakrasana, Galavasana, Visvamitrasana, Pincha Mayurasana, Handstand, Kapotasana, Hanumanasana, Padmasana) plus progressive Kumbhaka ratios, Maha Bandha, and Yoga Nidra.

Faculty Attribution: Lead Trainer (E-RYT 500) (Counts toward 75% Lead Trainer synchronous contact requirement)
Suggested Teaching Flow
  • 1Block 1 (35h): 4-Stage Krama Engineering for apex arm balances, forearm/handstand inversions, and flip-grip backbends.
  • 2Block 2 (35h): Classical Pranayama (Surya Bhedana, Bhastrika, Bhramari, Sheetali) with Antara/Bahya Kumbhaka ratios, Bandha locks, Antar Mouna meditation, and full 45-minute Yoga Nidra scripting.
Postures & Concepts Explored
  • •4-Stage Apex Asana Krama Progressions
  • •Progressive Kumbhaka Ratios (1:1:2:0 to 1:4:2:1) & Maha Bandha
  • •8-Stage Satyananda Yoga Nidra Protocol
Practice Teaching & Partner Labs
  • →Teach a 20-minute progressive Krama clinic + a 30-minute live Yoga Nidra session.
Recommended Reading

Light on Pranayama (B.K.S. Iyengar); Yoga Nidra (Swami Satyananda Saraswati)

Student Reflection & Practice

21-Day Advanced Pranayama Log & Original 45-Minute Yoga Nidra Script.

Learning Milestones
  • • Deconstruct any apex posture into 4 progressive kramas and guide classical Kumbhaka and Yoga Nidra safely.
RYS500-C3-S02AP • Clinical Anatomy, Physiology & BiomechanicsMonths 5–6 • Advanced Anatomy Lab (25.0 Hours)
25h Registry Contact28h Total w/ Self-Study

2. Myofascial Meridians (Anatomy Trains), Biotensegrity & Nervous System Regulation

Deep study of Thomas Myers' Anatomy Trains (Superficial Back/Front, Lateral, Spiral, and Deep Front Lines), fascial hydration/rebound, and polyvagal neurobiology.

Faculty Attribution: Specialist Faculty (DPT) & Lead Trainer (E-RYT 500) (Counts toward 75% Lead Trainer synchronous contact requirement)
Suggested Teaching Flow
  • 1Block 1 (18h): The 7 Myofascial Meridians and whole-body tensegrity in complex transitions.
  • 2Block 2 (12h): Autonomic nervous system regulation, vagal tone, heart-rate variability (HRV), and respiratory neurophysiology.
Postures & Concepts Explored
  • •Myofascial Sling Activation & Fascial Rebound Sequencing
Practice Teaching & Partner Labs
  • →Myofascial Line Sequencing Lab for 75-minute master classes.
Recommended Reading

Anatomy Trains (Thomas W. Myers)

Student Reflection & Practice

Myofascial Meridian Class Design Portfolio.

Learning Milestones
  • • Design sequences targeting whole-body myofascial continuities and nervous system resilience.
Chapter 4 • Months 7–8 (Therapeutics & Philosophy)
105h Yoga Alliance Minimum115h Studio Diploma

Phase IV: Comparative Philosophy, Therapeutic Pathology & 1-on-1 Privates (Hours 301–400)

Samkhya Karika, Principal Upanishads, Sutras III–IV, Non-Dual Tantra, spinal/joint pathology protocols, and therapeutic private client series.

Pedagogical Objective:Combine scholarly mastery of Indian philosophical systems with clinical-grade biomechanical adaptation for injured, hypermobile, and private 1-on-1 clients.
RYS500-C4-S01YH • Comparative Yoga Humanities, Ethics & TextsMonths 7–8 • Advanced Humanities Seminar (40.0 Hours)
40h Registry Contact45h Total w/ Self-Study

1. Samkhya (25 Tattvas), Principal Upanishads, Sutras III–IV & Non-Dual Kashmir Shaivism

Covers Samkhya's 25 Tattvas, Katha/Mandukya/Taittiriya/Isha Upanishads, Patanjali's Vibhuti & Kaivalya Padas, and Non-Dual Shaiva Tantra (Vijnana Bhairava Tantra).

Faculty Attribution: Lead Trainer (E-RYT 500) (Counts toward 75% Lead Trainer synchronous contact requirement)
Suggested Teaching Flow
  • 1Block 1 (22h): Samkhya Karika, Principal Upanishads, and Advaita Vedanta.
  • 2Block 2 (23h): Yoga Sutras Books III–IV, Kashmir Shaivism (36 Tattvas, Spanda), Vijnana Bhairava Dharanas, and modern yoga social ethics.
Postures & Concepts Explored
  • •Upanishadic Mahavakyas & Vijnana Bhairava Tantra Dharanas
Practice Teaching & Partner Labs
  • →Deliver a 25-minute YTT-level Philosophy Lecture to the cohort.
Recommended Reading

The Upanishads (Eknath Easwaran); Tantra Illuminated (Christopher Wallis)

Student Reflection & Practice

Philosophy Seminar Lesson Plan & Student Handout.

Learning Milestones
  • • Teach comparative yoga philosophy across Vedic, Upanishadic, Samkhya, Classical, and Tantric traditions.
RYS500-C4-S02AP • Clinical Anatomy, Physiology & BiomechanicsMonths 7–8 • Clinical Biomechanics & Therapeutic Lab (25.0 Hours)
25h Registry Contact27h Total w/ Self-Study

2. Spinal & Joint Pathologies, Hypermobility & 1-on-1 Therapeutic Private Assessment

Covers flexion- vs. extension-intolerant spines, scoliosis, rotator cuff/labral/meniscus pathologies, hypermobility stabilization, and functional movement intake screens.

Faculty Attribution: Specialist Faculty (DPT) & Lead Trainer (E-RYT 500) (Counts toward 75% Lead Trainer synchronous contact requirement)
Suggested Teaching Flow
  • 1Block 1 (15h): Spine, shoulder, hip, and knee pathology modification protocols.
  • 2Block 2 (10h): Hypermobility spectrum stabilization and 5-point functional movement screening.
Postures & Concepts Explored
  • •Pathology-Specific Modification Tracks & 5-Point Movement Screen
Practice Teaching & Partner Labs
  • →Conduct live postural and movement screens on volunteer students.
Recommended Reading

Yoga as Medicine (Timothy McCall, MD)

Student Reflection & Practice

Clinical Pathology Adaptation Portfolio.

Learning Milestones
  • • Adapt yoga postures safely for common musculoskeletal pathologies and hypermobility.
RYS500-C4-S03ELEC • Practicum & Lead Student TeachingMonths 7–8 • Private Teaching Practicum & Therapeutics (40.0 Hours)
40h Registry Contact43h Total w/ Self-Study

3. Ayurvedic Diagnostics (Prana/Tejas/Ojas), Yin/Restorative & 3-Session Private Practicum

Integrates Ayurvedic dosha/sub-dosha assessment, Prana/Tejas/Ojas balancing, Yin/Restorative therapeutic sequencing, and a supervised 3-session 1-on-1 private client practicum.

Faculty Attribution: Lead Trainer (E-RYT 500) (Counts toward 75% Lead Trainer synchronous contact requirement)
Suggested Teaching Flow
  • 1Block 1 (15h): Ayurvedic Prakriti/Vikriti assessment, seasonal routines (Ritucharya), and Ojas restoration.
  • 2Block 2 (15h): Supervised 3-Session Private Client Practicum & Case Study Debriefs.
Postures & Concepts Explored
  • •Dosha-Specific Therapeutic Prescriptions
Practice Teaching & Partner Labs
  • →Complete 3 private 1-on-1 sessions with a test client and present the progression.
Recommended Reading

Yoga and Ayurveda (Dr. David Frawley)

Student Reflection & Practice

3-Session Private Client Case Study Portfolio.

Learning Milestones
  • • Combine Ayurvedic constitution insights with biomechanical assessment in private yoga sessions.
Chapter 5 • Months 9–10 (Mastery & Graduation)
100h Yoga Alliance Minimum110h Studio Diploma

Phase V: Master Assisting, YTT Faculty Apprenticeship, Capstone & RYS-500 Diploma (Hours 401–500)

Advanced hands-on assisting, assisting in 200-hour YTT posture clinics, workshop/retreat business, 75-minute Master Practicums, and RYT-500 certification.

Pedagogical Objective:Complete the 500-hour journey by mastering hands-on assisting, co-teaching YTT clinics, presenting a Capstone Workshop, and passing the 75-minute Master Class evaluation.
RYS500-C5-S01ELEC • Practicum & Lead Student TeachingMonths 9–10 • Lead Student Teaching & Final Practicums (75.0 Hours)
75h Registry Contact82h Total w/ Self-Study

1. Master Hands-On Assisting, YTT Faculty Pedagogy & Evaluated 75-Minute Master Classes

Advanced inversion/backbend spotting, myofascial Savasana assists, adult learning pedagogy for 200-hour YTT faculty, studio audition/workshop business, and final 75-minute Master Class assessments.

Faculty Attribution: Lead Trainer (E-RYT 500) (Counts toward 75% Lead Trainer synchronous contact requirement)
Suggested Teaching Flow
  • 1Block 1 (25h): Advanced hands-on assisting across standing, inversions, backbends, and restorative postures.
  • 2Block 2 (20h): YTT Faculty Pedagogy — Leading posture clinics, scoring rubrics, and mentoring junior trainees.
  • 3Block 3 (30h): Final Evaluated 75-Minute Master Classes, Capstone Defense & RYT-500 Credentialing.
Postures & Concepts Explored
  • •75-Minute Multi-Krama Master Class Delivery
  • •Advanced Inversion & Backbend Spotting
Practice Teaching & Partner Labs
  • →Lead a 30-minute YTT Posture Clinic + Lead an assessed 75-Minute Master Class.
Recommended Reading

Yoga Adjustments (Mark Stephens)

Student Reflection & Practice

Pass the 75-Minute Master Class Evaluation and Capstone Defense.

Learning Milestones
  • • Demonstrate 500-hour mastery across teaching, assisting, sequencing, and YTT faculty mentorship.
RYS500-C5-S02PE • Advanced Methodology & Program DesignMonths 9–10 • Program Design & Graduation Intensive (25.0 Hours)
25h Registry Contact28h Total w/ Self-Study

2. Specialty Workshop & Retreat Design, Career Architecture & Closing Master Sadhana

Packaging and pricing 2-hour workshops, multi-week series, and international retreats, followed by the closing Master Sadhana and RYS-500 Diploma ceremony.

Faculty Attribution: Lead Trainer (E-RYT 500) (Counts toward 75% Lead Trainer synchronous contact requirement)
Suggested Teaching Flow
  • 1Block 1 (15h): Workshop, Retreat & Online Course Curriculum Packaging, Pricing, Waivers, and Studio Partnerships.
  • 2Block 2 (10h): Closing Master Sadhana, Lineage Blessing & Official RYS-500 Accredited Diploma Presentation.
Postures & Concepts Explored
  • •Signature Workshop & Retreat Syllabus Design
Practice Teaching & Partner Labs
  • →Deliver a 20-minute preview of your Signature Specialty Workshop.
Recommended Reading

Capstone Specialization Reading List

Student Reflection & Practice

Claim and e-sign your official RYS-500 Accredited Diploma.

Learning Milestones
  • • Graduate ready to register as an RYT-500, lead workshops/retreats, and serve on teacher training faculty.
Literature & Svadhyaya

Required Reading & Textual Library

In Shala, trainees complete interactive Socratic reading reflections on each assigned book rather than passive checkboxes.

Light on Yoga & Light on Pranayama
by B.K.S. Iyengar
Techniques, Training & Practice (TTP)
The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
by Edwin F. Bryant
Yoga Humanities (YH)
Science of Yoga: Understand the Anatomy and Physiology to Perfect Your Practice
by Ann Swanson
Anatomy & Physiology (AP)
Yoga Adjustments: Philosophy, Principles, and Techniques
by Mark Stephens
Professional Essentials (PE)
Practicum Evaluation Sign-Offs

Core Graduation Competencies

Lead Trainers verify and sign off on each competency inside the Shala Cohort Command Center prior to minting accredited diplomas.

1Master both foundational and advanced sequencing across Hatha, Vinyasa, and Restorative modalities
2Apply clinical biomechanical principles and therapeutic modifications for private and group students
3Lead philosophical satsangs grounded in primary texts (Yoga Sutras, Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads)
4Complete 40+ hours of observed and evaluated practicum teaching with Lead Trainer sign-off
5Design and deliver specialty workshops, retreats, and introductory training modules

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a 500-hour training typically structured across a cohort?

Academies either run a continuous 500-hour program over 9 to 18 months (with a 200-hour foundational milestone halfway through) or pair their 200-hour foundational training with a 300-hour advanced bridge.

Explore Other Curriculum Templates

Yoga Alliance • 200h
200-Hour YTT (RYS-200) Template
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Yoga Alliance • 300h
300-Hour YTT (RYS-300) Template
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National Pilates Certification Program (NPCP / PMA) • 450h
450-Hour Pilates Comprehensive Template
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Yoga Alliance Continuing Education (YACEP) • 50h
50-Hour Yin Yoga YACEP Template
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Spend Your Weekends Teaching, Not Reconciling Spreadsheets

When you are ready to welcome students into your next cohort, Shala connects quietly to your Mindbody, Momence, or Google Calendar—organizing class attendance, category hours, and graduation certificates so you can stay present with your trainees. Free for cohorts up to 3 students, or $99/mo for up to 15 students.

Use This Template in Shala (Free)Download Schedule & Hour Log (.csv)