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 backUttanasana
1 min(8 breaths)
Stand in Mountain Pose.
deeply stretches the hamstrings, calves, and lower backAnjaneyasana
1 min(8 breaths)
From Mountain Pose, step your right foot back into a long lunge position.
stretches the hip flexors and groin of the back legDandasana
1 min(8 breaths)
Sit on your mat with both legs extended straight in front of you.
strengthens the core and back muscles
Tadasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Stand with feet together or hip-width apart, big toes touching.
improves posture and body awareness
Trikonasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Stand with feet about a metre apart.
stretches and strengthens the thighs, knees, and anklesUtthan 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 groinGarudasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Stand in Mountain Pose.
stretches the shoulders and upper back deeplyDhanurasana
1 min(8-10 breaths)
Lie on your belly with arms beside your torso.
opens the full front body: chest, abdomen, and hip flexorsUrdhva 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 wristsSupta Matsyendrasana
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
Lie on your back with both knees bent.
releases tension in the spine and lower backPaschimottanasana
1-2 min(10-15 breaths)
Sit on your mat with both legs extended in front of you.
stretches the hamstrings, calves, and spine
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
- 2Standing Forward Fold1 min
- 3Crescent Lunge1 min
- 4Staff Pose1 min
- 5Mountain Pose1 min
- 6Triangle Pose1 min
- 7Lizard Pose1 min
- 8Eagle Pose1 min
- 9Bow Pose1 min
- 10Upward-Facing Dog1-2 min
- 11Supine Spinal Twist1-2 min
- 12Seated Forward Fold1-2 min
- 13Corpse Pose3 min
Poses Used in This Sequence
