Move Your Body: Yoga Poses for Strength

Yoga is not just about flexibility; it's also an excellent way to build strength in your body. By incorporating specific poses into your practice, you can target different muscle groups and improve your overall strength. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced yogi looking to enhance your physical power, these yoga poses are perfect for building strength.

1. Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)

Start on your hands and knees, then lift your hips up and back, forming an inverted V shape with your body. This pose strengthens the arms, shoulders, and core while stretching the hamstrings and calves.

2. Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II)

Step your feet wide apart, extend your arms parallel to the floor, and gaze over your front hand. Warrior II builds strength in the legs, arms, and core, improving balance and stability.

3. Plank Pose

From a push-up position, keep your body in a straight line from head to heels. Engage your core and hold this pose to strengthen the arms, shoulders, chest, and core muscles.

4. Boat Pose (Navasana)

Sit on the floor, lean back slightly, lift your legs, and extend your arms forward. Boat pose targets the core muscles, helping to improve abdominal strength and balance.

5. Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)

Lie on your back, bend your knees, and lift your hips off the mat. Bridge pose strengthens the back, glutes, and hamstrings while opening the chest and shoulders.

Include these yoga poses in your practice to build strength, increase muscle tone, and enhance your overall physical well-being. Remember to listen to your body, breathe deeply, and enjoy the journey to a stronger, healthier you!

Find more yoga inspiration and guidance at Yoga Journal.