Trainings
Dive deeper into areas of study or become certified to teach yoga with our Playful Yogi Teacher Trainings.
Playful Yogi 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training
Nyack Studio
Thank you so much for your interest in our 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training! Let's build a world of Playful Yogis!
Below are the details on our next training launching in October 2025.
Lead Trainers:
Naomi Camilleri, E-RYT 500
Kenny Frisby, E-RYT 500
PYS Trainers:
Jodi Daly
Laura Zaino
Suzie Diano
Guest Trainers:
Chris Loebsack
Shaun Nanavati
Mary Partridge
Lynne Aubrey
Gina Turner
Marco Jo Clate
Jamie Shields
Terry Ryan
You can learn more about Naomi and Kenny as well as our entire teaching team on our About Us page.
Areas of Study and Training Topics Covered:
Yoga Philosophy and History:
Introduction to the history and origins of yoga.
Exploration of classical yoga texts such as the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.
Understanding the philosophy of yoga, including concepts like the Eight Limbs of Yoga and the path to self-realization.
Yogic Lifestyle and Ethics:
Discussion of the ethical principles and values associated with yoga, such as the Yamas and Niyamas.
Insights into mindful living and how to integrate yogic principles into daily life.
Asana (Yoga Postures):
In-depth study of yoga postures, alignment and variations.
Developing a personal practice and exploring asana techniques.
Sequencing and modification of postures for different levels and needs.
Pranayama (Breath Control):
Learning and practicing various breathing techniques to enhance vitality and control the mind.
Understanding the connection between breath and movement.
Anatomy and Physiology:
Basic anatomy of the human body and how it is applied to yoga practice.
How yoga postures affect the body and how to avoid injuries.
An introduction to the energy systems in the body, such as chakras and nadis.
Meditation and Mindfulness:
Techniques for cultivating a regular meditation practice.
Training in mindfulness and concentration to improve mental clarity and inner peace.
Teaching Methodology:
How to create and structure yoga classes.
Effective teaching skills, communication and adjustments.
Dharma Talks, contextualizing yogic philosophy and ethics into life, teaching with compassion, empathy, inclusion and a social justice/trauma-informed mindset.
Business and Ethics of Yoga Teaching:
Understanding the business aspects of being a yoga teacher.
Ethical considerations, including student-teacher relationships and maintaining professionalism.
Practicum:
Teaching practice with peers and receiving constructive feedback.
Leading classes under the guidance of experienced instructors.
Final Exam and Evaluation:
Written and practical assessments to gauge understanding and teaching skills.
Successful completion of these evaluations is required to receive certification.
Special Topics:
Some additional topics may include introduction to Prenatal Yoga, Gentle, Yin and Restorative Yoga, yoga for specific populations (e.g., seniors or athletes), or yoga therapy. We will also include CPR certification and teaching safely in a hot room.
Throughout the program, students are encouraged to maintain a consistent personal practice and reflect on their own yoga journey. The goal of a 200-hour YTT program is to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to teach yoga safely and effectively while deepening their personal practice and understanding of yoga's philosophy and lifestyle.
2025-26 Schedule:
This training runs Saturday, October 25th, 2025 - Sunday, March 29th, 2026 and is a hybrid of 11 in-person weekends and 10 livestream Wednesday evenings.
In-person weekends at PYS will be from 9am - 5pm (60-minute break for lunch) and will incorporate class with Kenny, Naomi or a guest teacher both days.
Wednesday evening sessions on Zoom will be from 6 - 8:30pm.
Thank you again for your interest in joining us in our 200-hour Teacher Training!
Playful Yogi 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Schedule 2025-2026:
IN-STUDIO WEEKENDS:
October 25 & 26
November 8 & 9
November 22 & 23
December 6 & 7
January 3 & 4
January 17 & 18
January 31 & Feb 1
February 7 & 8
February 28 & March 1
March 14 & 15
March 28 & 29
WEDNESDAY EVENING ZOOM SESSIONS:
October 29th
November 12th
December 3rd
December 10th
January 7th
January 21st
February 4th
February 11th
March 4th
March 18th
"The Playful Yogi 200-hour yoga teacher training program was, hands down, the best thing I’ve done for myself in a long time. It got me back into my yoga practice at a deeper level than ever before, providing a solid foundation and understanding of yoga philosophy and asana practice. The structure of the program itself is incredibly thoughtful, as it built community among the trainees and teachers (and everyone at PYS!). Each training weekend felt like such a magical experience. If you’re wondering if it’s worth it, it one million percent is!"