Columnist: Olivia Goldrick Barefoot Yoga: Not Just for Teachers: Why Many Join Yoga Teacher Training Without Planning to Teach

Many are surprised to find that yoga teacher training isn’t always pursued with the intention to teach.

They’re not preparing to lead classes or step to the front of the room. They’re not focused on giving instructions or adjusting alignment. In fact, some don’t even consider themselves particularly advanced in their practice — and that’s perfectly okay.

Why do it? Especially if there’s no intention to teach?

The answer varies, but one common thread is the desire to go deeper — not just into yoga, but into themselves.

Some join because they’ve reached a point in life where something needs to shift — perhaps after burnout, a breakup, or the sense that time is moving too fast. Others are drawn by curiosity — a quiet pull they can’t quite explain. Many are simply tired, overstretched, or seeking something more grounded and nourishing than the pace of daily life allows.

Yoga teacher training isn’t just about learning to teach — it’s a deep dive into the practice itself: physically, emotionally, and philosophically. It’s a journey inward as much as outward.

Over the years, I’ve witnessed all kinds of individuals come through training — parents in between school runs, young professionals feeling burnt out, those in big life transitions, and others who simply want to reclaim time for themselves. Some go on to teach, of course. But many don’t. And that’s never a problem — because the real transformation often happens long before anyone steps into a teacher role.

Training offers a chance to explore yoga beyond the postures. It covers anatomy, meditation, breathwork, philosophy, and the subtle aspects of practice that can be hard to touch in a regular class setting. Most of all, it offers space — space to ask questions, reflect, connect, and take stock.

It’s no exaggeration to say our graduates leave these trainings changed — not because they’ve mastered a handstand or learned Sanskrit pose names, but because they’ve had time to slow down and really listen to themselves. That’s something our culture doesn’t always allow for. But it’s something yoga has always held space for.

This September, we have three different training programmes beginning at Barefoot Yoga Studio in Lucan:

• Yin Yoga Teacher Training – Begins 6th September
  A quiet, introspective journey into surrender and stillness. This is ideal for those drawn to the slower, meditative side of the practice and a deeper connection with the inner body.
• Kids Yoga Teacher Training – Begins 17th September
  A joyful, playful programme attracting parents, teachers, and those working with children — anyone who wants to share movement, mindfulness, and calm with children.
• 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training – Begins 27th September
  Our most comprehensive course. While it qualifies graduates to teach, it also welcomes anyone wanting to deepen their own understanding and connection to yoga.

Whether you’re called to one of these trainings or just considering the idea, know that there’s no “right” reason to join. You don’t need to want to teach. You don’t need to be the bendiest in the room. You don’t need to know where it will lead.

Namaste!

Olivia

Join Our Community

At Barefoot Yoga Studio, we believe yoga is more than just a practice; it’s a way of life. We are dedicated to fostering a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. Whether you’re interested in our 200-hour teacher training program, which offers a comprehensive understanding of yoga philosophy and teaching methodologies, or our specialized courses for teaching kids yoga, we have something for everyone. We are excited to see our community grow and evolve, and we encourage you to take the next step in your yoga journey.

*To register for the course or learn more about our offerings, please visit our Instagram and Facebook pages or stop by the studio. We look forward to welcoming you into our community!

Barefoot Yoga Studio
Unit 13, Millbank Business Park
Lower Lucan Road,
Co. Dublin
k78 DK30

Tel: 083 804 1873
Email: info@barefootyogastudio.ie
Website: http://www.barefootyoga.ie
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