Yoga has become a very successful moneymaking endeavor, which brings with it several different styles and levels to choose from. But too many yoga centers are simply interested in making money off the buzz, instead of being interested in increasing the physical and mental health of clients.

So, how do you choose where to go?

Firstly it is important to research the yoga center you intend study at. Ask questions. A quality center will have the biographies of each teacher, with levels of study, years teaching and training, and what course they can offer.

Be wary of teachers who are certified after a short course at a yoga school. Six weeks is not enough time to start teaching anything. Ask yourself: Would you study Kung Fu with someone who only took a six-week teacher-training course?

Look at class size limits. The more one on one interaction you can have with the teacher the better, especially for beginners. Yoga is a very precise study and simple tweaks and turns in postures along the way help to develop your ability to advance properly.

Research Timetables. Some centers will only offer certain courses at certain times. It is important to understand your own schedule and how it meshes with that of the center you want to go to.

Know your style. A basic understanding of the different possibilities is important. Maybe you are a person who wants to build strength, or someone who wants to focus on the meditative benefits of yoga, but don’t know which style is which. With so many choices it can be hard to know which one is right for you.

For a list of different styles and their descriptions, click here.

Getting started into yoga can be hard – there is so much available – but with a little research on your own, you can find what works best for you and your lifestyle, while not wasting time in a center that is only out to get your money.