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
Janu Sirsasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Sit with both legs extended.
stretches the hamstrings, groin, and lower backDandasana
1 min(8 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 anklesGomukhasana
1 min(8 breaths)
Sit with legs extended, then bend both knees and stack the right knee over the left.
opens the outer hips and glutes deeply
Setu Bandha Sarvangasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Lie on your back with knees bent, feet flat and hip-width apart.
strengthens the back, glutes, and hamstringsPhalakasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Begin in Downward Dog, then shift forward so wrists are below shoulders.
strengthens the entire core, including deep stabilisersNavasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Sit with your knees bent, feet flat on the mat.
strengthens the deep core, hip flexors, and spineAnjaneyasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
From Mountain Pose, step your right foot back into a long lunge position.
stretches the hip flexors and groin of the back legVasisthasana
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
Begin in Plank Pose.
strengthens the obliques, deep core, and lateral stabilisersUttanasana
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
Stand in Mountain Pose.
deeply stretches the hamstrings, calves, and lower backMatsyasana (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 gently
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.
- 1Head-to-Knee Pose1 min
- 2Staff Pose1 min
- 3Warrior II1 min
- 4Cow Face Pose1 min
- 5Bridge Pose1 min
- 6Plank Pose1 min
- 7Dancer's Pose1 min
- 8Boat Pose1 min
- 9Crescent Lunge1 min
- 10Side Plank1-2 min
- 11Standing Forward Fold1-2 min
- 12Supported Fish Pose1-2 min
- 13Corpse Pose3 min
Poses Used in This Sequence
