Vinyasa vs Ashtanga vs Yin: Choosing Your Yoga Teacher Training Style

The three most popular YTT specializations in Bali are Vinyasa, Ashtanga, and Yin Yoga. Each attracts a different type of student and opens different teaching opportunities. Here is how they compare.

Vinyasa: The Creative Flow

Vinyasa is the most popular yoga style globally and the most employable specialization. Training focuses on breath-synchronized movement, creative sequencing, cueing techniques, and building intelligent class flows. It is physically dynamic and appeals to students who enjoy movement and creativity. Over 20 Bali schools include Vinyasa as a primary style.

Ashtanga: The Traditional Discipline

Ashtanga follows a fixed sequence of postures performed in the same order every practice. It is the most physically demanding of the three styles. Training includes the Primary Series, Mysore-style self-practice, and an emphasis on discipline and consistency. It appeals to students who value tradition, structure, and measurable progression. 15 Bali schools include Ashtanga in their curriculum.

Yin: The Contemplative Practice

Yin Yoga involves passive floor postures held for 3 to 5 minutes, targeting connective tissue and the body's fascial network. Training covers fascia-focused anatomy, meridian theory, and the therapeutic applications of deep stretching. It appeals to students interested in meditation, healing, and working with the body's subtle systems. Over 22 Bali schools include Yin in their curriculum.

Which Should You Choose?

If you want the widest teaching opportunities: Vinyasa. If you value tradition and discipline: Ashtanga. If you are drawn to healing and meditation: Yin. Many students combine two styles, doing a Vinyasa-focused 200-hour and adding a Yin specialty later.