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Strong 20: Functional Strength Training Program

Build strength for the demands of everyday life with this free functional strength training program: Strong 20! Push, pull, squat, hinge, lunge and rotate. Mimicking the moves you do everyday. So you can move better and feel stronger. Download this free, full body workout plan with daily workout videos on YouTube. All you need is a set of dumbbells and 20 minutes a day.

Strong 20 is our first 20-minute program – condensing the best strength training routines into achievable 20-minute workouts.

I created this program to fit the specific needs I had as a busy, sleep-deprived mom. I wanted quick and effective strength training workouts I could do at home in 20 minutes between nap schedules and work sessions.

This is a functional strength program, which means the workouts focus on functional movement patterns and strength exercises that help you perform activities in everyday life more easily.

Build a strong foundation of strength so you move better and feel stronger.

Two women performing a glute bridge with text overlay describing the strong20 functional strength training program
woman kneeling holding dumbbell at her face as part of strong20 functional strength training workout

LET’S GET STARTED

Download Your FREE Workout Plan Here

Download the PDF calendar for this workout plan so you can easily access your daily workouts.
Download Plan

This Functional Strength Training Program is for Anyone Looking to:

  • Train functionally to support the demands of everyday life.
  • Build strength in the upper body, lower body and core.
  • Increase core strength, flexibility and mobility.
  • Establish a solid weight training routine at home in just two weeks.

A functional strength program designed for real life. The workouts are short, efficient and scalable for all fitness levels – from postpartum/beginner to advanced.

This free, 2-week workout plan is modeled after our popular strength training programs: Stronger 25SplitStrong 35Build 30, MetCon 100, HIITStrong 35, and Zero 30. These programs are different from our other free workout challenges because they include 10 daily workout videos (a new workout video each day) that were cohesively filmed as one complete program. 

You can find more information about which signature program is right for you (and the order I recommend progressing through my programs) in this free Nourish Move Love Program Guide.

Read A 5-Star Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Such a great reminder that even 20 minutes can make a huge difference for both physical and mental health, no matter what stage of life you’re in. Thank you for making fitness accessible and effective for all of us! Inspiring to see so many people finding time for themselves with this program.”

— Natasha

Functional Strength Training program workout calendar PDF with clickable links to daily workouts

Already completed this challenge? Leave a review!

Week 1

Functional Strength Training Program: week 1

Day 1: 20-Minute Legs and Back Workout

  • YouTube Link: Leg and Back Workout (Strong 20, Day 1)
  • Equipment: Dumbbells
  • Pregnancy Modifications: Follow the workout modifier and slow down moves as needed. If you’re not comfortable lying on your back, take the glute bridges from a bench or exercise ball.

Day 2: 20-Minute Arm and Shoulder Workout

  • YouTube Link: Arm and Shoulder Workout (Strong 20, Day 2)
  • Equipment: Dumbbells
  • Pregnancy Modifications: Follow the workout modifier and slow down moves as needed. Taking exercises from a seated position or adding a bench incline as needed.

Day 3: 20-Minute Glutes and Abs Workout

Day 4: 20-Minute Standing Core with Weights

Day 5: 20-Minute Full Body Functional Strength Training

  • YouTube Link: Full Body Functional Strength (Strong 20, Day 5)
  • Equipment: Dumbbells
  • Pregnancy Modifications: Follow the workout modifier and slow down moves as needed. If you’re not comfortable lying on your back, take the chest press from a bench or exercise ball.

Week 2

Functional Strength Training program week 2

Day 6: 20-Minute Chest and Leg Workout

  • YouTube Link: Chest and Leg Workout (Strong 20, Day 6)
  • Equipment: Dumbbells
  • Pregnancy Modifications: Follow the workout modifier and slow down moves as needed. Take push ups from your knees or an incline. If you’re not comfortable lying on your back, take chest presses and flys from a bench or stability ball.

Day 7: 20-Minute Back and Arm Workout

  • YouTube Link: Back and Arm Workout (Strong 20, Day 7)
  • Equipment: Dumbbells
  • Pregnancy Modifications: Follow the workout modifier and slow down moves as needed. If you’re not comfortable lying on your back, take the dumbbell pullover and tricep skull crushers from a bench or stability ball.

Day 8: 20-Minute Thighs, Legs and Abs Workout

  • YouTube Link: Legs and Abs Workout (Strong 20, Day 8)
  • Equipment: Dumbbells and Optional Towel/Exercise Glider
  • Pregnancy Modifications: Follow the workout modifier and slow down moves as needed.

Day 9: 20-Minute Functional Core Training

Day 10: 20-Minute Full Body Functional Training

two women standing with dumbbells at shoulder height as part of functional strength program

Find This Workout Plan On Youtube

youtube icon Youtube Playlist

Strong 20 Workout Program Details

1. Gym Equipment Needed:

A Set of Dumbbells (Discount Code: NMLTF5). Most of the daily workouts require a set of free weights. Each weight training workout will have a recommended dumbbell weight, usually between 8-20 pounds. You want a weight heavy enough that your last few reps are a struggle, but you are still able to complete the workout with good form.

Optional Exercise Equipment: Mini Loop Resistance Bands (Discount Code: NML). And Glider or Towel.

2. Time Requirement: 

Workouts are 20 minutes per day, 5 days per week.

This plan includes 2 rest days per week. You get to choose which days are your rest days. I suggest resting after day two or three (Wednesday or Thursday) and then again after day five (Sunday). OR completing days 1-5 and then resting on days 6-7; over the weekend. The goal is to make this plan work for YOU!

If you’re a runner, I would suggest completing 2-3 of the strength workouts per week. So your training plan would look like:

Week One: 

Day 2: Arms and Shoulders

Day 3: Glutes and Abs

Day 5: Full Body Strength

Week Two: 

Day 7: Back and Arms

Day 8: Legs, Thighs and Abs

Day 10: Full Body Strength

3. Fitness Level:

Beginner to advanced, with modifications offered for all fitness levels in the daily workout videos.

4. Cost:

FREE! No sign up needed.

two women performing a curtsy lunge in a full body functional workout

Functional Strength Training Program FAQs

What Is Functional Strength Training?

Functional strength training means training for movement, not for aesthetics. Functional training creates a base of strength that directly enhances one’s ability to perform daily movement patterns, like squatting, reaching, and twisting. This is a program designed to build strength in the muscles and movements that we use in daily life, so you can move better and feel stronger.

Can I Do This Plan If I’m A Beginner/Pregnant/Postpartum?

Yes. Functional training is naturally low impact and a great option for beginners and pregnancy/postpartum. I filmed this program at 5 months postpartum – weight training workouts like this were some of the first I did when I was ready to return to exercise. Follow along with the modifier for options to scale each move up or down.

What Are Examples of Functional Strength Training Exercises?

Popular examples of functional training exercises include squats, overhead press, single leg or balance work, and core rotation. Functional training works to improve your range of motion, mobility and full body strength. These are all moves we use in every day life, and can benefit from training in a controlled setting.

Is Functional Strength Training Effective?

Functional fitness workouts are some of the best workouts you can do to build muscle, improve endurance and reduce risk of injury. This form of training targets the muscle groups we rely on the most for daily movement (and builds in core strength to every workout).

How To Download and Use This Workout Plan

  1. Download the Functional Strength Training Workout Program PDF by clicking here, or bookmark this webpage for reference as weekly workouts are outlined below.
  2. Save this workout calendar to your mobile device home screen for easy access.
    1. Open this workout calendar pdf in the safari browser on your phone.
    2. Tap the bottom arrow in the center of your screen.
    3. Select ‘Add to Home Screen’.
  3. Hover over and then click on the bold text each day to access the full video on nourishmovelove.com. Or scroll down to find the daily workouts linked below.
  4. You can also access all of the home workout videos on this workout challenge calendar on YouTube via this YouTube Playlist: Strong20 Workout Program.
  5. Share your daily workouts with me by tagging @nourishmovelove on social and ‘Pin’ the daily workouts on Pinterest so you can do them again.

Pin this Free Workout Program: Strong 20 Functional Strength Training Program

Pin for pinterest - strong in 20 program

Leave A Review

Your review helps us keep creating free workouts.

Did you love this workout challenge or notice your strength improving? We would truly appreciate a review! Every single one helps us keep creating free fitness content that supports you in your health journey.

Short + Effective

January 5, 2026

It is still impressive to me that a 20-25 minute workout can accomplish so much! Strong 20 is my go to when I want to keep up with strength goals but lack time or motivation, or want to go up in weights. Every time I complete the program, I am shocked with how much stronger I feel and how challenging yet doable this program is. Truly a gift to have it for free! Thanks, Lindsay!

Sarah C

This is the best for when you’re short on time or energy

January 1, 2026

I love this series so much because it feels so attainable! I feel like there are always seasons or days when I need something that feels very doable, and this is it.

Alli

Love these workouts quick and effective!

January 1, 2026

I’m 56 and these workouts are so great. I love increasing my strength and I don’t have to go to an hour long body pump class at the gym . I love that Rachel is always there with alternative options.

LeAnn

I love everything NML does

January 1, 2026

NML just GETS what it’s like to be a busy mom who wants to be strong. The easy weekly workout plans tells me exactly what I need to be doing. I just have to show up. THANK YOU!

Samarah

Favorite workouts!

December 30, 2025

Strong 20 is my favorite workout plan on NML! They are the workouts I keep coming back to! I have worked out with Lindsey and Rachel during both pregnancy and postpartum seasons and these workouts are perfect for ALL seasons of life! They are quick, efficient, fun and really do help you get strong and feel strong! Thank you team NML!

Leah

Started for overall strength, unexpected bonus it relieved chronic sciatica!

December 30, 2025

I found NML during a deep dive of all things Perimenopause. Knowing I need strength training more than ever for this season of life, but also nervous because I’m 2 back surgeries in and still battling sciatica. Strong 20 was my starter program. 7 months in, my sciatica is gone on top of getting workouts that are truly enjoyable. My Husband and I are able to knock out a workout before getting the kids up for school!

Jessica

Perfect for runners!

December 29, 2025

I am training for a marathon and this is perfect a few times a week to be able to still get strength in, but not compromise the amount of running I have to do!

Shelby

Love the modification options and motivational prompts!

December 29, 2025

I love that NML’s workouts are designed to be accessible to all fitness levels. I know I can always find a way to complete the workout so I’m never discouraged. I keep coming back and improving! They also offer a well rounded approach to fitness by providing tips on nutrition and wellness.

Kimberly

Great motivation and quick

December 29, 2025

This is my go to workout plan when I’ve missed a few weekly workouts and I’m trying to get back on track or if I’m recovering from being sick. I start this workout after completing a gentle 20 minute workout. I love that it’s 20 minutes because that’s the perfect amount of time to give my kids a quick break from homework to watch something so I can fit in a workout after we all get home from school. Lindsey and Rachel are super motivating and I love the strength and mobility in every workout! This helps me continue to show up!

Caroline

I started here and loved it!

December 28, 2025

I started doing strength workouts in 2023 with the Strong 20 program. I knew nothing about strength exercises, but Lindsey’s demonstrations were easy to follow and the 20 minute format wasn’t intimidating at all. I loved it so much, I’ve been doing NML workouts ever since and I keep coming back to repeat Strong 20.

Leanne Parsons

My favorite go-to program!

December 27, 2025

When you’re short on time (or motivation!) this program is the perfect option! It’s quick and effective and all in 20 minutes! I come back to it several times a year! I love seeing how much stronger I am each time!

Ashley

Positive and productive

December 27, 2025

This 20 minute format makes a difference! I’ve gone up in my hand held weight and Lindsay is so positive! As a teacher, mom and post menopause lady, I can’t recommend these work outs enough!

Kirstin

20 minutes is all you need

December 27, 2025

I turn to Strong 20 if I’m in a time crunch but still want an effective, well-rounded workout. The full body sessions provide just that. Likewise, if I want an “add on” to another workout (i.e if I’m really focusing on a specific body group – like back, while working on pull-ups) this is a good way to get some extra muscle fatigue in. It was also very doable while in my third trimester of pregnancy.

Michelle

I love short workouts!

December 27, 2025

I loved every single workout of this program.

Mihaela

Quick and effective

December 27, 2025

These workouts are perfect for when you are in the season of “fitting-it-in, ” which, let’s be honest, is pretty common in the mom, wife, work rhythm many of us are in.

Tara Harvey

Perfect for baby season

December 27, 2025

I have done this specific program 4 or 5 times when I’m in the midst of a busy season. I started at 10 and 15 lbs and I’m now consistently picking up 25 and ready for 30. Perfect program for busy moms or difficult seasons when it feels like there’s not much in the tank.

Jodi

Begin here!

December 27, 2025

You will sweat, move, and burn calories in only 20 minutes. Start here if you are a beginner, do a couple of rounds of this. NML is amazing!!

Beth

Perfect Quick Program!

December 27, 2025

This program is an incredible way to get a good workout when you’re short on time. Shorter does not mean easier!! It still tricks me every time! Perfect for nap time workouts or squeezing in an early one before everyone wakes up. I’ve gone back to this plan so many times!

Danielle

Great program

December 26, 2025

This program helped me grow so much and I find myself repeating it over and over and getting stronger every time. Thank you so much for this program and sparking my motivation about being active!

Ava

Best at home workout videos out there!

December 26, 2025

I used to go to a strength class at my yoga studio, which I loved, but I found it difficult to drive there after work and finding time for it all. I have tried other workout videos many times and could not find something that I enjoyed. Having to drive somewhere after work also made it difficult to work out consistently. I almost gave up and then my friend recommended NML to me and I was amazed at how much I loved it. The workouts are challenging yet fun and I feel motivated to do them at home! This is the first time I’ve been consistent with a workout five days a week! So happy I found NML.

Gabby

When your short on time but want a great workout

December 26, 2025

I discovered NML when I moved and didn’t have a gym close by my home. Decided to make a home gym and got tired of making up my own workouts that would fit my day with long commutes to work. These workouts are perfect so I can get a challenging workout that doesn’t take much time.

Sarah

Great Postpartum Plan!

December 26, 2025

This was the program that got me hooked on NML! I loved these short but intense workouts that let me get back to my family (and my to-do list) quickly. This program made me do all the others and was a great stepping stone to lifting heavier and heavier. I still come back to it during my busiest seasons of life!

Nikki

QUICK & EFFICIENT WORKOUT

December 26, 2025

Lindsay and her team are incredible! When you’re short on time or just don’t want to think about what workout to choose, NML has you covered with a weekly workout plan. All you have to do is press play

Erin

Great workout

December 26, 2025

Love the quick efficient 20 min workout. Has made me so much stronger. Following nourish move love. Thanks for the great workout.

Karen

A staple workout plan!

December 26, 2025

Strong 20 is such a staple plan for me. I always come back to it especially when I’m pressed for time (kids, holidays, life!) It’s one of my favorites along with Perform 20. I love these functional strength moves in my 30s!

Megan

Note: before beginning any new exercise program you should consult with your physician or midwife. The information provided with this workout challenge is intended for general information and use; it does not include specific, individualized recommendations and is not intended as medical advice. Before you begin any new exercise program Nourish Move Love recommends that you consult with your physician. Nourish Move Love primarily educates clients to assume more personal responsibility for their health by adopting a healthy and active lifestyle.

This post does include affiliate links and I earn a small commission on products purchased using these links. All words and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting Nourish Move Love.

4 comments
  1. I LOVE your workouts. I’ve been doing them regularly for more than a year, and they have been the easiest workout routine for me to stick to. I adore you and Rachael as you are genuine and bring a lightheartedness to a hard workout. I have 4 kids under 11 and work part time as well, and you have made it possible for me to stay strong and fit. I tell my friends about your workouts so PLEASE just keep them coming!

    • Jennifer! I’m so glad you’re loving the workouts!! We are all about quick and effective workouts for busy moms! Thank you so much for sharing our workouts with others we really appreciate it! And we hope you keep coming back for more! Thank you! Lindsey

  2. Yay! So excited to start working out again after getting cleared in a few weeks. Do you recommend starting with this program or the postnatal one as an adjustment back to working out?