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
Trikonasana
1 min(8 breaths)
Stand with feet about a metre apart.
stretches and strengthens the thighs, knees, and anklesUtkatasana
1 min(8 breaths)
Stand in Mountain Pose with feet together or hip-width apart.
strengthens the thighs, calves, spine, and ankles
Vrksasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Stand in Mountain Pose with feet together.
improves balance and proprioceptionPhalakasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Begin in Downward Dog, then shift forward so wrists are below shoulders.
strengthens the entire core, including deep stabilisers
Virabhadrasana I
1 min(8-10 breaths)
From Mountain Pose, step your left foot back about a metre.
strengthens the legs, glutes, and coreVasisthasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Begin in Plank Pose.
strengthens the obliques, deep core, and lateral stabilisersArdha Matsyendrasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Sit with both legs extended.
deeply rotates the spine, improving mobilityUrdhva Mukha Svanasana
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
Lie on your belly with palms by the lower ribs, elbows close in.
strengthens the spine, arms, and wrists
Savasana
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
Lie on your back on the mat.
calms the nervous system and promotes deep restUttanasana
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
Stand in Mountain Pose.
deeply stretches the hamstrings, calves, and lower backSavasana
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
- 3Triangle Pose1 min
- 4Chair Pose1 min
- 5Tree Pose1 min
- 6Plank Pose1 min
- 7Warrior I1 min
- 8Side Plank1 min
- 9Half Lord of the Fishes1 min
- 10Upward-Facing Dog1-2 min
- 11Corpse Pose1-2 min
- 12Standing Forward Fold1-2 min
- 13Corpse Pose3 min
Poses Used in This Sequence
