20-Minute Yoga for Strength
This 20-minute sequence develops the functional strength that supports a safe, sustainable yoga practice. Expect your legs, core, and upper body to work together in poses that build stability and control.
Duration
20 minutes
Poses
13 poses
Goal
Strength
The Flow
Ananda Balasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Lie on your back.
opens the inner groins and hip flexorsJanu Sirsasana
1 min(8 breaths)
Sit with both legs extended.
stretches the hamstrings, groin, and lower backPaschimottanasana
1 min(8 breaths)
Sit on your mat with both legs extended in front of you.
stretches the hamstrings, calves, and spine
Virabhadrasana I
1 min(8 breaths)
From Mountain Pose, step your left foot back about a metre.
strengthens the legs, glutes, and coreUrdhva Mukha Svanasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Lie on your belly with palms by the lower ribs, elbows close in.
strengthens the spine, arms, and wristsMalasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Stand with feet slightly wider than hip-width, toes angled out.
opens the hips and groinSalabhasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Lie face down with arms alongside your torso, palms facing up.
strengthens the muscles of the spine, glutes, and backs of the arms and legsPhalakasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Begin in Downward Dog, then shift forward so wrists are below shoulders.
strengthens the entire core, including deep stabilisersParivrtta Utkatasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Begin in Chair Pose with feet together.
strengthens the thighs and core simultaneouslyNavasana
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
Sit with your knees bent, feet flat on the mat.
strengthens the deep core, hip flexors, and spineDandasana
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
Sit on your mat with both legs extended straight in front of you.
strengthens the core and back muscles
Balasana
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
Kneel on your mat and bring your big toes to touch behind you.
gently stretches the hips, thighs, and ankles
Savasana
3 min
Allow every muscle to soften completely. This is where the practice integrates.
promotes full recoveryQuick Reference
All 13 poses in this sequence, in order.
- 1Happy Baby1 min
- 2Head-to-Knee Pose1 min
- 3Seated Forward Fold1 min
- 4Warrior I1 min
- 5Upward-Facing Dog1 min
- 6Garland Pose1 min
- 7Locust Pose1 min
- 8Plank Pose1 min
- 9Revolved Chair Pose1 min
- 10Boat Pose1-2 min
- 11Staff Pose1-2 min
- 12Child's Pose1-2 min
- 13Corpse Pose3 min
Poses Used in This Sequence
