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
Paschimottanasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Sit on your mat with both legs extended in front of you.
stretches the hamstrings, calves, and spineMalasana
1 min(8 breaths)
Stand with feet slightly wider than hip-width, toes angled out.
opens the hips and groin
Virabhadrasana II
1 min(8 breaths)
Stand with feet about a metre apart.
strengthens and tones the legs and ankles
Virabhadrasana I
1 min(8 breaths)
From Mountain Pose, step your left foot back about a metre.
strengthens the legs, glutes, and coreSalabhasana
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 legs
Tadasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Stand with feet together or hip-width apart, big toes touching.
improves posture and body awarenessVirabhadrasana III
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Begin in Warrior I with your right leg forward.
strengthens the standing leg, glutes, and entire back bodyAgnistambhasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Sit on your mat with legs extended.
deeply stretches the outer hips and glutesUtkatasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Stand in Mountain Pose with feet together or hip-width apart.
strengthens the thighs, calves, spine, and anklesNavasana
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
Sit with your knees bent, feet flat on the mat.
strengthens the deep core, hip flexors, and spineParivrtta Utkatasana
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
Begin in Chair Pose with feet together.
strengthens the thighs and core simultaneously
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.
- 1Seated Forward Fold1 min
- 2Garland Pose1 min
- 3Warrior II1 min
- 4Warrior I1 min
- 5Locust Pose1 min
- 6Mountain Pose1 min
- 7Warrior III1 min
- 8Fire Log Pose1 min
- 9Chair Pose1 min
- 10Boat Pose1-2 min
- 11Revolved Chair Pose1-2 min
- 12Child's Pose1-2 min
- 13Corpse Pose3 min
Poses Used in This Sequence
