I wanna be a YOGA TEACHER

Almen Wong, 30 When doctors suggested a less intensive exercise regime to Almen due to her pregnancy, she decided to give yoga a try. It was love at first bend. A former model and actress, Almen soon found yoga to be the perfect partner for her hectic lifestyle. Two years ago, she helped establish Pure Yoga in Central, where she now teaches Hot Yoga (Hatha yoga in a heated room) and Yin Yoga (yoga for pregnant women).

What qualifications do you need?

It depends. In my case, I was certified by someone who is recognised by the renowned institute Yoga World. I needed to learn anatomy, yoga therapy, alignment and all the postures. The course was a couple of months long for 15 hours a day at yoga school.

What sort of person does the job suit?

People who love yoga and like to share what they love with other people. And most importantly, have no problem speaking in public to guide students through the class.

What's the best way into the industry?

First, start to practise different disciplines, find one kind you like the most and get into it. Practise it a lot, then learn to teach it.

What working hours do you keep?

It depends. Sometimes I work long hours, sometimes not so bad. I also manage the studio besides teaching, so at least eight to 10 hours a day.

Is there a clear career path?

If you keep taking advanced teacher training courses as a junior teacher, you can become a senior teacher or start to learn a new discipline in order to be able to teach it.

What's the best part of your job?

When students tell me how much yoga has helped them in terms of improving their health and shape, and made their lifestyles much healthier.

What's the worst?

When a dedicated student suddenly stops coming to practice because of laziness - when you see they've come a long way, and started to show improvement, and then they just give up. That makes me very disappointed.

Who is your role model?

Everyone around me. I think everyone has something nice to offer.

What do yoga instructors earn?

About $10,000 to $20,000 a month

Last words.

I might be their yoga teacher in my students' eyes, but all my students are also my teachers. I learn so much from them every day.