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 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 coreJanu Sirsasana
1 min(8 breaths)
Sit with both legs extended.
stretches the hamstrings, groin, and lower backParivrtta Utkatasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Begin in Chair Pose with feet together.
strengthens the thighs and core simultaneouslyMalasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Stand with feet slightly wider than hip-width, toes angled out.
opens the hips and groin
Bhujangasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Lie on your belly with your legs extended, tops of your feet on the mat.
strengthens the spine and erector muscles
Vrksasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Stand in Mountain Pose with feet together.
improves balance and proprioception
Trikonasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Stand with feet about a metre apart.
stretches and strengthens the thighs, knees, and anklesArdha Chandrasana
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
Begin in Triangle Pose on the right side.
strengthens the ankles, legs, glutes, and spineMatsyasana (Supported)
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
Place a bolster horizontally on your mat (or use two stacked blocks).
opens the chest, heart, and throat gentlyUttanasana
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
Stand in Mountain Pose.
deeply stretches the hamstrings, calves, 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 II1 min
- 3Warrior I1 min
- 4Head-to-Knee Pose1 min
- 5Revolved Chair Pose1 min
- 6Garland Pose1 min
- 7Cobra Pose1 min
- 8Tree Pose1 min
- 9Triangle Pose1 min
- 10Half Moon Pose1-2 min
- 11Supported Fish Pose1-2 min
- 12Standing Forward Fold1-2 min
- 13Corpse Pose3 min
Poses Used in This Sequence
