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
Dandasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Sit on your mat with both legs extended straight in front of you.
strengthens the core and back muscles
Virabhadrasana I
1 min(8 breaths)
From Mountain Pose, step your left foot back about a metre.
strengthens the legs, glutes, and core
Tadasana
1 min(8 breaths)
Stand with feet together or hip-width apart, big toes touching.
improves posture and body awarenessPaschimottanasana
1 min(8 breaths)
Sit on your mat with both legs extended in front of you.
stretches the hamstrings, calves, and spineSalabhasana
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
Trikonasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Stand with feet about a metre apart.
stretches and strengthens the thighs, knees, and anklesUrdhva 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 wristsVirabhadrasana III
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Begin in Warrior I with your right leg forward.
strengthens the standing leg, glutes, and entire back bodySarvangasana
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
Lie on your back and draw your knees toward your chest.
stimulates the thyroid and parathyroid glandsJanu Sirsasana
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
Sit with both legs extended.
stretches the hamstrings, groin, and lower backSupta Matsyendrasana
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
Lie on your back with both knees bent.
releases tension in the spine and lower back
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.
- 1Staff Pose1 min
- 2Warrior I1 min
- 3Mountain Pose1 min
- 4Seated Forward Fold1 min
- 5Locust Pose1 min
- 6Dancer's Pose1 min
- 7Triangle Pose1 min
- 8Upward-Facing Dog1 min
- 9Warrior III1 min
- 10Shoulder Stand1-2 min
- 11Head-to-Knee Pose1-2 min
- 12Supine Spinal Twist1-2 min
- 13Corpse Pose3 min
Poses Used in This Sequence
