Making the Switch to a New Class

Figuring out a new class to teach can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. All it requires is a little brainstorming, talking with your students and studio, and keeping an open mind. Here’s a 5 step guide on developing and offering a new class.

What inspires you right now?

Ok, so if you don’t want to teach what you’re currently teaching, what would your ideal class be like? Make a list of what type of class inspires you. Is it more yin or yang? What level are you teaching? Who are the students? When you imagine yourself teaching, what elements does it have? Does it include more pranayama and meditation? What type of asanas are you teaching, if any at all? Is it a classic style of yoga or a blend of different modalities? This is your time to dream up the perfect class. You have a clean slate and the possibilities are endless. Write down all of your thoughts until you have a clear picture of what this new class is. 

If you’re not sure what other type of class you might teach, you can ask your students what they think is missing from the studio’s offerings or what is missing from their practice. Their thoughts might spark an idea for a class you could offer. You can take your brainstorming from there.

Think of a class title and description

Once you have a definite vision of the class you’d like to teach, come up with a title and write a description. Be concise with your description and make sure it’s clear what you’re offering.

Let your manager or supervisor know your needs

Once you’ve got your new class title and description, pitch the idea to your supervisor or studio manager. Provide the new class title and description for what you’d like to teach and propose a start date. Be clear and firm that this is a necessary change for you. Give a reasonable amount of time for the studio to make the changes to the schedule. Be open to any feedback or suggestions.

Offer solutions and be flexible 

If the class that you’re asking to stop teaching is a popular class, you need to be prepared to offer solutions to your manager. You might offer to give the class to another teacher. If the class was doing well, know that your studio may want to keep the class at the same time slot, so if they opt to have another instructor teach that class, be ready to offer a day and time where your new class can be added to the schedule. 

While staying flexible is important when navigating change, knowing your boundaries is also important. If you’ve come to the conclusion that you no longer want to teach a certain class, know that there’s a chance your studio wants to keep the class as is and they may not have room in their budget or schedule to add a new class. Are you willing to completely walk away from that class? Is there somewhere else you can teach? Have a plan for how you will respond if this is the case.

Let your students know about the change 

Once the class change is finalized, let your students know that you’re going to be teaching something new. Tell them when the new class will be starting. If it’s really different from what you’ve been teaching, express your enthusiasm for this new style and encourage them to try something new.

See? It’s that easy! Follow these steps and you’ll be on your way to teaching your new class in no time!