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 musclesPaschimottanasana
1 min(8 breaths)
Sit on your mat with both legs extended in front of you.
stretches the hamstrings, calves, and spineJanu Sirsasana
1 min(8 breaths)
Sit with both legs extended.
stretches the hamstrings, groin, and lower back
Tadasana
1 min(8 breaths)
Stand with feet together or hip-width apart, big toes touching.
improves posture and body awarenessNavasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Sit with your knees bent, feet flat on the mat.
strengthens the deep core, hip flexors, and spineMalasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Stand with feet slightly wider than hip-width, toes angled out.
opens the hips and groinParivrtta Trikonasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Stand with feet about a metre apart, right foot forward.
deeply stretches the hamstrings, hips, and it band
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 musclesUtthan Pristhasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Begin in Downward Dog and step the right foot outside the right hand.
deeply opens the hip flexors and groin
Virabhadrasana I
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
From Mountain Pose, step your left foot back about a metre.
strengthens the legs, glutes, and core
Savasana
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
Lie on your back on the mat.
calms the nervous system and promotes deep restMatsyasana (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 gentlySavasana
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
- 2Seated Forward Fold1 min
- 3Head-to-Knee Pose1 min
- 4Mountain Pose1 min
- 5Boat Pose1 min
- 6Garland Pose1 min
- 7Revolved Triangle1 min
- 8Cobra Pose1 min
- 9Lizard Pose1 min
- 10Warrior I1-2 min
- 11Corpse Pose1-2 min
- 12Supported Fish Pose1-2 min
- 13Corpse Pose3 min
Poses Used in This Sequence
