The system of yoga known as “Iyengar Yoga” was created and developed over 75 years ago by Yogacharya B.K.S. Iyengar. Iyengar Guruji devoted his life to the evolution of his approach to yoga, based on the traditional eight limbs of yoga taught over 2500 years ago by the sage Patanjali.  A worldwide, standardized instruction system differentiates Iyengar Yoga from other methods. Certified Iyengar Yoga Teachers (CIYTs) undergo rigorous training and evaluation to earn their certifications. Only CIYTs are permitted to describe their method of instruction as Iyengar Yoga. CIYTs are trained to provide clear demonstrations of each posture. They are skilled in using simple props to maximize the opening and awareness of the body, providing support to the less flexible and extra extension to the more advanced student. 
 
Iyengar yoga certification is considered the “gold standard” because it is the most rigorous teacher certification program in the world. Candidates for Iyengar yoga certification must study for a minimum of three years, complete a 500-hour training or equivalent program, complete an apprenticeship and pass two levels of intense testing and evaluation. 
 
For Iyengar yoga certification, teachers are evaluated on more than 45 different criteria, including the clarity of their instruction, their ability to teach poses to a wide range of students, and their skill in observing and correcting students.