Best Sex Positions to Improve Your Sex Life

Have You Fallen Into a Sexual Rut? We've Got 67 Ways to Spice Things Up

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Have you and your partner fallen into a rut, doing the same old things, at the same old times, in the same old places? Familiarity is great and all, but your bedroom routine risks becoming plain old boring if you don't occasionally change things up, at least a little. You have a lot of options in front of you, in terms of how to do that: you could experiment with having sex in different places, up to and including the great outdoors, or you could introduce a sex toy into your night-time fun.

But one easy, free area to explore is the wide world of sex positions. Are you a fan of the classics, like Missionary, and Doggy Style? Do you like to cycle through half a dozen different ones each time? Is there a less common one that you’re prone to attempt, like the criss cross, the butterfly, or the surfboard?

There are tons of different sex positions for you and your partner to try, and if you’re used to just one or two, it can be overwhelming to know how to do what’s new to you. Here, you’ll find an illustrated sex position guide to help you have better sex tonight (or at this very moment, if you can’t wait that long).

It’s broken down into sections based on different position types. Each position is accompanied by an illustration and a description that’ll help you determine whether it’s a good fit for you and your partner. These illustrations primarily depict relationships featuring cis men and women, or at least one partner with a penis and one with a vagina.

However, if you're looking for anal sex positions, gay sex positions or threesome positions, we also have those!

Whether you're looking for positions that are great for slow, intimate, sensual sex or something more rough and intense, if you keep reading, you’ll find something for you.

Missionary Sex Positions

Missionary is one of the most well-known and popular positions for a reason. You don’t need to be flexible, there’s a lot of eye contact and physical closeness, and it doesn’t require anything except a flat surface. It’s also a great option for those who aren’t looking for anything too wild. However, if you are looking to keep things fresh, Missionary can be tweaked in a bunch of different ways to alter the pleasure, intensity, and kink factors for both partners. Check out these Missionary-inspired versions:

Missionary

The Missionary position (penetrating partner on top, couple facing each other) is arguably the most famous and classic of all positions. The eye contact, the mild dominance aspect and the angle of penetration make this a popular one, and odds are, the first time you had sex was in Missionary. A very comfortable option that allows for easy thrusting, there are plenty of benefits to it, so it's no surprise that it's as common as it is.

Coital Alignment Technique

Another spin on Missionary, the Coital Alignment Technique (C.A.T.), aka the Frog or the Perfect Position, looks to sacrifice elevation and power for proper alignment. Start in regular Missionary, and then flatten your torso as much possible, while your partner should arch their legs and put their legs on your butt. What you're doing here is targeting the clitoris for more direct rubbing and friction. The pressure you put on the clitoris could help your partner get to orgasm quicker. You should also be staying nice and deep inside in the C.A.T. too, to ensure maximum penetration. In other words, this one is more for your partner's pleasure than your own.

Legs on Shoulders

A classic take on Missionary, this one can either be done with you lying down on top of your partner, or with your partner positioned at the edge of the bed and with you in standing (or more accurately, leaning in) with their legs on your shoulders as you penetrate them. This position not only gives the penetrating partner all of the control, but it will also allow them to penetrate the receiver more deeply, so it’s kind of a win-win. You may need to grasp your partner's legs and pull in gently to prevent your thrusting from pushing them away from you, however.

The Pancake

A more extreme variant of Legs on Shoulders, this one really puts you in the driver's seat. Start with your torso more or less vertical and their legs on your shoulders. Descend slowly until you're basically folding your partner in half. For more leverage, you can reach around your partner's back with your arms and pull them tightly against you. This one is very intimate, but it also gives the receiving partner very little mobility, so it's basically you who is 100% in charge of the thrusting. The pressure you're putting on their muscles can also create a tightness in the pelvis, leading to an even tighter feel for you. However, you should make sure the receiving partner's flexible enough to pull this one off — many people aren't — and even some people who are won't be able to handle this position for longer than a few minutes.

Swivel and Grind

If your penis is on the shorter side, the Swivel and Grind is your friend. This position de-emphasizes the ol’ in-and-out pumping, which is actually better for the penetrating partner than it is for the receiver. Instead, once you’re inside, use your hip rotation to grind and twist a little, pressing your pubic mound as hard as you can against the clitoris. The friction and pressure will be makes this pleasurable for your partner, no matter what your size. To get maximum closeness, Missionary with legs on shoulders works best. You may also want to consider propping up your partner's hips on a sex pillow or wedge — like the one mentioned later in this article — to create the perfect angle.

The Viennese Oyster

In the Viennese Oyster, the receiving partner places their ankles behind their head, and either the receiver or the penetrator holds them in place as they thrust. The receiver's tightened leg muscles mean it’s great for deep penetration; meanwhile, they can use their hands to help support the penetrating partner's body weight. This position isn’t super common, and it definitely isn’t for everyone — it requires a pretty flexible receiving partner, for one. That said, it offers a lot of control for the penetrating partner, as well as eye contact. If those are musts for you, it might be worth a try.

Spread Eagle

This one's not for beginners, as it requires a little light bondage. But if you're exploring kinkier options with your partner, this is a great option that allows you to take a more dominant role while still offering both of you a lot of intimacy. With your partner on their back, have them spread their legs, and tie their ankles and wrists together. You then have total control for a very steamy, powerful romp.

Doggy-Style Sex Positions

Traditional Doggy Style, named because it’s, well, how dogs have sex, features the receiving partner on their hands and knees with the penetrating partner kneeling behind. It’s a less intimate option than Missionary-style positions, but sometimes, that’s just what you’re looking for. Doing it from behind can also mean easier access to the clitoris for one or both of you, and kneeling or standing positions can mean a very different thrusting experience where you’re not supporting yourself with your arms and upper body. However, in this section, we’ve grouped all kinds of doing-it-from-behind positions, featuring standing, kneeling, and lying-down options.

Doggy Style

Doggy Style is a favorite for millions of people for a few reasons. It really lets the penetrating partner be in control, it offers really deep thrusting, and there’s more than a few variations on it. In its simplest form, you kneel on the bed, with your partner on all fours in front of you — then you enter them from behind. You can decide to go slow or fast, and hold onto your partner's hair, arms, hips, or breasts as you go. If you want to add some roughness, and your partner is into that, Doggy is a solid option that allows for spank the receiver as well. If you have a free hand, a little reach-around can add extra stimulation, too.

Reach for the Sky

Doggy Style is normally done kneeling, but it doesn’t have to be. An easy transition from normal Doggy, in this version you actually get up on your feet and stand up, and lean way over your partner. You’ll get somewhat of a less intense thrust than regular Doggy Style, but in return you'll both have a different sensation, and a pretty decent workout for your hamstring and ankles from it. The leaning forward actually lets you get a somewhat deeper feel, and the difficulty quotient will make you feel all the more accomplished for pulling it off.

Bedside Doggy Style

A lot of sexual positions have the receiving partner on an elevated platform with the penetrating partner on the ground — this one flips the script. Go the edge of the bed and kneel. Have your partner standing straight up and back up to you slowly, and then bend over at 90 degrees. You then enter them from behind and thrust away. This one has a little bit less of the hands-on potential of traditional Doggy Style, but it’s an interesting take on the position that’s arguably even more dominant for you. If you want to make things easier on your partner's back, you can place a chair or desk nearby that your partner can lean on for support.

The Speedbump

The Speedbump position, aka “backdoor planking,” not only accesses the G-spot and the A-spot to create squirting orgasms but it's also comfortable for the female partner after switching into several positions. Backdoor planking is a position where the female partner lies on her stomach with her legs close together, and is penetrated from behind. This position requires little work on her behalf, but feels amazing because her legs are placed closely together which creates a tighter entry for him and increased sensation for her.

Doggy Style Stairs

Another set-up that works for anal sex or vaginal sex, the Doggy Style Stairs position takes advantage of the natural incline and steps to create new angles and supports for you. Again, carpeted steps (or a towel to protect the receiving partner's knees) are a good idea. Depending on your height, you can either be standing or kneeling for this one. The stairs mean the receiver can keep themself more upright, and the fact that you’ll be on a lower step means you have a more natural, upright angle to enter them than traditional Doggy Style on a flat surface. Just make sure you don’t fall!

Spooning

Spooning is one of the “cuddliest” of all the positions, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make it intense. You lie on your side, with your partner in front of you, facing away. Enter them from behind, and then both of you can control the pace and depth of thrusting. Spooning is comfortable; it's great for longer sexual sessions with a lot of sensual touching and kissing of the back of the neck. You can also get quite handsy and reach around the play with your partner's nipples or even reach down and add extra stimulation to the clitoris from the front, and it also works great as an anal option.

Kneel Together

This position is a great variation on regular Doggy Style. In this edition, you enter your partner from behind as you would normally with Doggy Style, only then both of you straighten your torsos straight up. This position means the receiving partner's hands are a lot freer than they’d normally be during Doggy Style, which means they can more easily play with themself — or even reach down and pleasure your balls.

Hyper-Connected Doggy

It's a variant of the Doggy-Style position we are all familiar with. The penetrating partner stands on the floor at the edge of the bed, and the woman gets into the typical Doggy-Style kneeling pose on the bed. After the penetrating partner has entered his partner he pulls her up towards him so that she is now kneeling at the edge of the bed, instead of being an all fours. He supports her with one hand wrapped around her torso. This position is great because it allows you to get that deep penetration so many love about Doggy-Style, but you're more connected with your partner because her whole body is up against you. Added benefits are that you can pull her hair, see her face, and also whisper nasty things into her ear, all at the same time, since you have one free arm. It’s intense, intimate, and feels good!

Chicken Wing Doggy Style

While this is a pretty straightforward Doggy variation that gives you even more control, it might be tricky for couples if the penetrating partner struggles to support the receiving partner’s body weight. You start in the typical Doggy Style pose with your partner on all fours, then lift your partner up by their thighs from behind, with your arms underneath their legs to help support them. If need be, you can prop up one of their legs with your knee or thigh by planting your foot on the bed, while your other leg remains in a kneeling position.

The Superhero

Perhaps the ultimate strength test position, the Superhero sees you bend your partner over a desk or table, while they use it for support. Then, once you're inside your partner, lift their pelvis up slowly until their feet are actually off the ground, and you're holding on to them as you thrust in and out. The sheer physical intensity of this one means it's not for the faint-hearted, but can provide an adrenaline rush as you go closer and closer to your breaking point. Keep safety in mind and let your partner down gently as soon as your strength starts to wane, and make sure you don't pull out too much.

The Lean Doggy

How it looks depends on (a) your partner and (b) the thing she's leaning over. If you have a really understanding woman-friend who doesn’t mind being boned from behind while she rests her elbows on a wooden desk, all is well. Leaning your partner over, say, a table and taking her from behind requires work from her end (no pun intended) but allows the dude to go about sexy times while literally just standing there. Literally! How it feels depends on the surface. If you’re leaning your partner over a bathroom sink, it probably won’t be the best for her.

Bent-Over Standing Doggy

This standing twist on Doggy Style takes some serious flexibility and commitment, but if you're up for it (or down for it) it can be a fun addition to your roster of positions. This is also a great choice if you're trying to get it on in public without being caught — the receiving partner can completely dip down behind a bush or parked car for cover.

Out-of-Control Cowgirl

If you’re looking for a Doggy variant that offers the receiver a bit more control, you could try the Out-of-Control Cowgirl. In this version, rather than kneeling forward, the penetrating partner kneels back with their butt on their heels, shifting it from a thrusting position to more of a riding position. The receiving partner lowers themself onto the penetrating partner, actively riding rather than lying down or resting on their hands and knees. This one offers the penetrator easy access to the clitoris and/or breasts for extra stimulation, as well as lots of body contact if the receiver’s leaning back into your chest.

The Cowboy

Before we get to the Woman on Top positions (aka different variations of the Cowgirl) let's check out the Cowboy! Finally, your chance to ride. This is a variant on the Backdoor Planking position that sees you putting your thighs outside of your partner's thighs instead of inside them. Your partner should push their butt up in the air a little bit to help give you a better angle — a pillow can help here.

The Toad

In the Toad, the penetrating partner gets behind the receiving partner and enters them — but rather than classic Doggy Style or Standing Doggy, here, both partners are crouched over together. A good option for those who find that the Frog isn't crouch-y enough, the Toad is a master class in getting it on while your knees bent. While this one should be considered for experts only, it's a strong choice if you're trying to sneak in a quickie and want to keep a low profile without fully lying down.

Products to Enhance Your Experience

An All-Purpose Lube

There are plenty of formulas on the market engineered for specific use cases, depending on where (and what) you're trying to lube up. But if you're looking for a great lubricant perfect for any position you're trying out, this water-based formula takes just about any position to the next level. It's condom-compatible and completely safe to be used with toys. Plus it's super long lasting, meaning you'll get more bang for your buck... if you'll pardon the pun. And in case you haven't gotten to know your partner well enough to find out what they're allergic to, this formula is completely organic, chemical and paraben free — which means you'll be in the clear.

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A Clit Toy to Help Her Climax

Data shows that the majority of women need some kind of clitoral stimulation in order to reach orgasm, and a toy can help achieve that in a seriously fun way. As long as you're both getting off in a position you enjoy doing, everyone wins, right? You don't need one of those monster vibrators to get the job done, either. Something small like the Womanizer, which uses suction technology to deliver clitoral stimulation while allowing for simultaneous penetration will do the trick nicely.

$99.00 at Lovehoney.com

A Penis Ring

If you've written off the idea of trying out a cock ring because you don't need extra help lasting, it's time to revisit the benefits of using one. For starters, wearing a a cock ring during any variation of Woman on Top gives your partner the advantage of added clit stimulation as they're riding you. This also takes your standard Missionary and Coital Alignment Technique positions a step further, letting you stimulate your partner's most sensitive area without much additional effort. A vibrating ring like this rechargeable one amplifies that stimulation even further — and will feel extra good for you, too.

$39.66 at Amazon.com

A Ramp or Cushion

When you're exploring new positions, it's all about finding new angles that feel the best for both you and your partner. And sometimes, that extra throw pillow or three just doesn't quite do it when you're going for more complex positions — like legs on shoulders, swivel and grind, or the pancake. A ramp or cushion that gives your partner just enough lift off the floor, but enough support that it won't collapse under your pressure could be the key to finally finding your partner's G-spot. With this new piece of very strategic furniture, the possibilities are infinite.

Liberator Jaz Cushion, $74.99 at Amazon.com

Woman on Top Sex Positions

A lot of people will associate Missionary and doggy-inspired sex positions with the penetrating partner being in control. That’s all well and good, but if you want to switch things up, receiver-on-top positions, aka Woman on Top positions, are the way to go. These options give the receiver more control over the speed, intensity, and angle of penetration to best suit both their pleasure and comfort level. Different variations on this type of position let you both face each other or away from each other, and with versions that involve more thrusting for the penetrator or more riding for the receiver, there’s sure to be one for every two people going at it.

Cowgirl

It's arguable that the Cowgirl is one of the most popular positions in the world — and for good reason. The penetrating partner gets to lie back and get a simply wonderful view of their partner moving up and down; the receiver can get excellent clitoral stimulation and a lot of control of depth and penetration. Penetration-wise, this is one of the best ways for a people with vaginas to reach an orgasm. The penetrating partner can let their hands roam, massaging the receiver's breasts, for instance, and if you're looking for a little kinky bonus, adding light choking to the mix is pretty straightforward in Cowgirl.

Reverse Cowgirl

A certified porn classic, the reverse Cowgirl position similarly puts the penetrating partner on the bottom and has the receiver straddling them — this time while facing away. The receiver can control the angle of penetration here, but it may be considered a less intimate position since you can't look each other in the eyes. Unless, that is, you try the position in front of a mirror — that could definitely turn up the heat a little bit. Another option? If you want to change things up, have the penetrating partner arch their knees a bit to give the receiver something to easily push off of.

Crouching Reverse Cowgirl

The Reverse Cowgirl is usually done in something of a vertical T-position, with the penetrating partner lying flat on their back and the receiving partner bouncing up and down mostly upright. You can add a variation to this by having the receiver lean forward, so that their head is actually almost over top of the penetrator's feet. By planting their arms onto the ground/bed or even grabbing their partner's shins, the receiver can really get a lot of leverage to move themself back and forth. This one really leaves the receiver in control, and lets the penetrating partner sit back and relax, essentially.

Woman Lying on Top

This position requires a lot of exertion on the receiving partner’s part, but could be very intense; it can also work for anal sex, and give the receiver a lot of control in that scenario. In this position, the penetrator lies flat on their back, holds the receiver by the hips or butt, while the receiver partly props themself up using their elbows and legs, arching their back and placing their shoulders and shoulder blades on the penetrator's chest. Then the receiving partner moves themself up and down to control how the depth of the penetration. To prevent the receiver from getting tired, the penetrating partner can help them by supporting their butt and taking some of the weight.

The Backseat Special

The backseat is a favorite car sex spot — probably because it's the most convenient spot to engage in full penetration in a car: It's much roomier than the front seats. Plus, hooking up when you're parked means it's semi-public, which can add to the thrill of it for people with an exhibitionist bent. As for the best car sex positions, you're probably better off sticking to the standard Cowgirl, although Missionary might also be an option.

The Waterfall

The Waterfall is a variation on the popular Cowgirl position, but packs a super-sized climactic punch. Start by laying on the couch or bed with your head near the edge and your partner on top of you, but instead of riding you from her knees, she’ll need to lean back and shift her weight to her feet. Once she’s got the stance down, inch toward the edge of the bed or couch, letting your head and shoulders slide off onto the ground while your hips remain elevated. If you’re on a couch, drape your legs over the back of the seat or simply let your knees fall open. From here, your partner has complete control over the speed, depth and intensity of her gyrations, not to mention a free hand to use as she wishes — clitoral stimulation, anyone? There are a couple of ways to execute this pose: You can either use it as a bridge while building to orgasm, or moving into it right before the big finale. Either way, this position will cause the blood to rush to your head (and your other head) for an explosive climax.

Zen Sex

Some people want lustful, intense, passionate sex... and some people want more relaxed sex. If you're in the mood for something a little more zen, try this position. In order to pull it off, your partner should put their legs into a full lotus position and lean forward on their hands. Or, they can move their hips up and down. Alternately, you can help by lifting their hips from behind to achieve an up-and-down motion.

Oral Sex Positions

Not all sex has to be exclusively genitals-on-genitals. Oral sex is always a great pleasure option, whether you're giving or receiving — or both at once. Not to mention that data shows women enjoy more pleasure from oral sex than penetrative sex. So what are your options when it comes to blowjobs, cunnilingus and 69ing? Let's check it out.

Lying for Him

This is probably the least work you'll ever have to do to achieve orgasm, as you just lie back and let your partner do the work. This allows your partner to control everything that's going on, too, meaning they has full control over the speed, the angle, the duration and more, making this a great option for both of you.

Lying for Her

One good turn deserves another — this position is the gender-swapped version of the above one and similarly allows your partner to relax and you to really get to work. It's also perfect for amping things up a bit by adding some fingering to the mix to really take their pleasure to the next level.

Standing for Him

This has been a staple of porn scripts for a long, long time. While it might be a little less relaxing position to receive a blowjob, it's a great option if there isn't a bed available and/or if you want to feel more dominant or engage in role play while receiving oral pleasure. It also means you can experiment (only with your partner's express consent!) with thrusting a little rather than just being passive.

Standing for Her

This is a bit trickier than the male equivalent, but it's a solid option if there isn't a bed available — although trickier to pull off in more public situations if your partner's wearing pants or shorts. Just kneel at their feet, have them spread their legs a bit, and go for it.Face-Sitting for Him

Face-sitting can be very hot, because it adds an extra element of dominance and submissiveness to your oral play. Have your partner lie on their back; they can prop up their head either using a pillow or leaning their shoulders against the wall. Then, thrust into their mouth. It’s a good idea to go gently here, because you could make this uncomfortable otherwise. Talk to your partner beforehand to establish some boundaries and maybe a signal for whether you should stop; then during the act, work with your partner's body language and cues to figure out your rhythm and how deep you can go.

Face-Sitting for Her

As far as face-sitting goes, this version is a lot simpler than the above: You lie flat on your back, and your partner straddles your face with their thighs, lowering their crotch onto your head. You can also use a pillow to take some of the pressure off your neck. Vulva-havers love this position, but they're far from alone, a) because it’s a pretty comfortable way to eat someone out and b) there’s a bit of female dominance to it. You also get the full experience: The taste, the heat, the smell and the moisture of the vagina are all right in your face. Your partner can also add a bit more pressure if you want to kick the intensity up a notch — though in that case, you’ll want to work out a signal in case you find yourself struggling to breathe.

The 69

The classic mutual pleasure oral position, 69-ing is a thrill for the head-to-toe positioning. It also works for any combination of two sex partners. If you're lying one on top of the other, it should be easier for whichever one of you is smaller or lighter to go on top, with each of you pleasuring the other orally at the same time. An intense oral option that's not for everybody, the 69 also tests your concentration and your ability to pleasure your partner while they’re doing the same for you.

Sideways 69ing

Another fun option for the 69 is to simply turn it on its side. While sideways 69ing requires a bit more effort than the upright version, it's a great option if lying on top of each other is tricky for any reason, and offers a fun new spin — literally — on a classic oral position.

The Upside-Down 69

Not satisfied with simply turning the 69 sideways? Amp it up another level with the Upside-Down 69. This variation, which is not for beginners, also requires some specific hardware, as you'll need a chin-up bar or some sort of equivalent bar for the top person to hang from. Don't try this without first ascertaining that it can hold your weight (or your partner's), though. You can also alternate which one of you is upside down if you're really enjoying yourselves.

Sideways Oral

Recline on your side, and have your partner position themself so that their head is in line with your crotch. They should also be on their side, and can wrap their arm around your legs for balance and leverage. From there, it’s up to you; you can totally sit back and let your partner do all the work, or provide the thrusting motion yourself. This is an incredibly comfortable and relaxed position for both of you. Your partner may need to tuck their legs in to prevent them from hanging off the side of the bed, or even placing a chair next to the bed if you’re a taller couple.

Elevated Cunnilingus

A table, a windowsill, a countertop, whatever the case, having your partner up above means that you can go down on them… without going down too much. Have your partner bring their legs right up to the edge of whatever platform they’re on, and then either kneel or stand (depending on your respective heights) and give in to the pleasure of cunnilingus. This is another one that is great for getting it on in public, because you don’t need a nice cushy surface to lie down on.

The Dragon

Sort of a reversal of the Face-Sitting for Her position, this one is great for guys who love cunnilingus but who still want to be a bit more dominant. Typically, this one starts with the receiving partner lying on their back; the giving partner can then pick the receiver's lower body up and support it while their head and shoulders remain in place. This position is also great for anilingus, as it gives the giver full access to the their partner's crotch and anus.

The Seated Blowjob

Is there anything better than getting a blowjob while seated? Don't answer that; it's a rhetorical question, and besides, the answer is no. Perhaps the most famous version of this blowjob position is getting one in a car, known as "road head." That's a sideways angle, but of course you can always do this in the privacy of your home instead of in a motor vehicle. In that case, your partner would probably approach from the front, with you seated on a chair of your choice and them kneeling in front of it.

Doggy-Style Oral

Unlike most other oral positions, this doggy-style one is (crazy bending ability aside) pretty much just for performing on vulva-havers. Have your partner get down on all fours, either propping themself up on their hands and knees, or knees and elbows. You then either get down on all fours and pleasure them orally from behind, or have them on all fours next to the edge of the bed so that you can either stand or kneel on the ground to make it easier on your back. This position is also great for giving anilingus.

Standing Sex Positions

Whether you have a bed at your disposal or not, sometimes you just want to get it on standing up instead of lying down. Standing sex is a great option if you're in the mood for something that burns a few more calories, and if your heights line up just right, standing sex means, like some Doggy Style positions, that you have a lot of freedom of movement. It's also probably the most common go-to for public sex because it typically doesn't require anything except two bodies (and you can still be wearing most of your clothes).

Standing Sex

Bro, do you even lift (your partner up to have sex with them?) Grab your partner's thighs and then have them wrap their legs around you while hanging off your shoulders with their arms. Make sure you're strong enough to pull this one off before you go full-throttle on it. You'll probably have to lift your partner up higher and then slowly lower them onto your penis. We'd add a pretty big note of caution here: make sure you have a very firm grip and take this slowly and safely, as there is the potential for injury here if you lose your grip — for both of you.

Against a Wall

This is a staple of movie sex scenes — two characters passionately embrace for the first time and, too lustful to make it to the nearest bed, simply get it on against the nearest wall. Like its wall-less equivalent, it's taxing on your upper-body strength, but the wall means you're not supporting all of your partner's weight. It also offers great access to the neck and breasts so you can get in a lot of passionate kissing, and a lot of intimate face-to-face time.

Standing from Behind

Another public sex favorite that can also work for anal, this position is relatively simple; both of you are standing, and you enter your partner from behind. The receiver can be completely upright, in which case you'll want either a wall, or a tree, or a similarly vertical object for them to lean against. Another way to do it is to have the receiving partner lean against a desk or table.

Woman on Table Sex

For truly intense thrusting and sex that involves a lot of power, having your feet firmly planted on the ground is a great way to go. Have your partner lie flat on the table (this also works with any roughly waist-high platform) and have their butt pushed right up to the edge, or even overhanging a tiny bit. When you enter them, you’ll see how much power and stability you have from being in a standing position. Here, your partner could wrap their legs around you, could leave them hanging or prop them up against your shoulders, or they could even lie on their side as for a whole new angle of penetration.

Criss Cross

This is one of the less standard positions, but great to have in your arsenal. What this position does, essentially, is make your penis feel twice as big as it actually is, and all she has to do is cross her legs. You in? Figured as much. Find yourself a surface that is roughly at hip-height. Then lay your lady down on said surface with her legs draping over the edge. Standing between her legs, enter her, then lift and cross them so they form an X. From here, you can place her ankles on your shoulders. By crossing her legs, you have better access to her G-spot and become the girthiest dude she’s ever had. Presumably.

Pile Driver

Another position that works better in porn than in real life, this one is no walk in the park for the penetrating partner either. It’s an intense position by any stretch of the imagination, and one you’re not likely to be able to sustain for long. To get into this position, have the receiving partner lie on their back, then lift their legs up slowly from their thighs until their torso is fully coming off the floor. Slowly raise their butt up so that it’s almost above their head, and then straddle them, using up and down motion to penetrate. Pro tip: You’re going to have to lean forward somewhat in order to position your penis at the right angle, which is going to take a bit of bending regardless.

Bridge and Tunnel

The Bridge and Tunnel is a dual Standing Doggy variant that requires some flexibility on the receiving partner’s part. The receiver spreads their legs, bends over and touches the floor while the penetrating partner holds onto their hips and enters them from behind. Frankly, this is a complicated position that shouldn't be attempted by the inexperienced. That being said, if you're both really in sync, it's a great new option that’ll burn a few calories.

The Sitting V

Have your partner sit on a table or counter with enough room for them to lean back, and with their butt slightly hanging off the edge. Support their back with your hands, and then have them place one leg on your shoulder, and then the other on your other shoulder. Have your partner grab behind your shoulders for extra support. Then you can enter them. You control the thrusting in this position, because keeping their balance is going to be enough of a challenge for your partner in itself. This is a tough position, requiring flexibility on the receiving partner's part, and it’s made tougher if they have short legs — or if you have a long torso.

Sitting & Kneeling Sex Positions

Of course, standing positions aren't for everyone. If the two of you don't match up well height-wise, sitting or kneeling positions can be more comfortable and intimate, while also offering some new and unique options for getting it on.

Seated Sex

This is a highly intimate sitting position that can be performed at the end of a bed if it’s a good height, or on a chair bench that’s wide enough. The seated penetrating partner has the receiver straddling them in a kneeling position, with the receiver's knees on either side of the penetrator's hips. While it doesn’t allow for much by way of thrusting for you, it’s a great position for a more low-key vibe, and also works if the receiving partner wants to take charge a little bit and ride their partner. This position also offers a lot of opportunities for kissing, eye contact, and breast play.

Sit on My Lap

Who hasn’t been aroused when their partner’s sitting on their lap? Well, this position is basically that, minus your clothes. As you’re directly on top of each other, this one is very doable anywhere a single person can sit (so long as it can hold the weight of both people). You’re not face-to-face, which might take away from the intimacy for some people, but there’s still lots of skin-to-skin contact and easy access for clitoral stimulation by both partners. Like the previous position, this one is better suited for when the receiving partner wants to ride the penetrator, as opposed to when you wants to thrust into them.

Kneeling Sex

Another position that’s all about intimacy, kneeling sex can be seriously rewarding if properly pulled off. We’d suggest finding a cushion, pillow or yoga mat to take some of the strain off your knees. This one also works best if the penetrating partner isn’t too much taller than the receiving partner; if you’re 6’3” and your partner is 5’5”, this might not work. You kneel, placing your left outstretched knee to the left of the receiving partner and your right leg behind you. The receiving partner does the same. To get penetration, you should try to lower your pelvis beneath your partner’s (hence why this might be difficult for taller folk) and slip your penis into them. Once you’re inside, this position becomes easier, as the receiving partner rocks their pelvis back and forth. If your balance is good enough, there’s also potential for a bit of anal or nipple play with your hands.

Kneel and Deliver

Another kneeling position, this one also doesn’t require a bed or even nice surface to do your thing on. You get on your knees, resting your butt on your hamstrings. Have your partner sit down slowly until you enter them, wrapping their arms around you for added balance. While this one looks uncomfortable, the angle and stability actually mean this one can be reasonably intense, while providing lots of eye contact and a certain “do-it-anywhere” convenience.

The Bridge

A kneeling position for the penetrating partner, the Bridge gives you a wonderful view of your partner's chest and torso; but it doesdemanding a lot from them, physically. While your partner creates an arch with their arms and legs, you kneel in front of them and penetrate them. Your partner won't be able to do too much moving, aside from keeping themself upright, so your job is to grab their butt and start pulling their hips back and forth to get the necessary motion to make the whole thing work. Supporting your partner's butt with your hands a little will also take some of the strain off their arms.

The Butterfly

She lays on her back with her hips off the bed. Her legs can either be wrapped around his hips, her feet can be flat on the floor or she can have her knees bent up to her breasts. This position allows for her to control the angle of penetration with her hips and both of them have hands free to explore one another and make sure the clitoris isn't ignored. Plus, he can control the depth and speed of penetration that works for them both. This position also promotes intimacy through ease of eye gazing and kissing [...] and it promotes communication because you see one another's responses to stimulation.

Yab Yum

This is one requires a lot of intimacy and patience; you won’t get much intensity or deep thrusting. To get into this, you sit down facing your partner, and wrap your legs around them. The receiving partner does the same, keeping their legs inside the penetrating partner's. Then the receiver slides their butt forwards a little bit until the penetrator can slide inside them. Probably not one to try on a first date, but it can be rewarding all the same.

The Splits

While you're in a sitting pose, your partner lowers themself onto you. Once you're penetrating them, have them rotate their torso so their legs are pointing in opposite directions. Fair warning: You probably shouldn't try this one unless your partner is extremely flexible. However, for those of you who are sleeping with athletes, dancers, or just naturally flexible people, this option is a fun twist (literally) on a number of other sitting versions.

Unusual Sex Positions

Something as varied as sex could never fit into six neat little categories. This final section is for all the wacky, wet, and weird positions that didn’t really slot in anywhere else. Whether you and your partner are on the hunt for something new and adventurous, or you’re just looking to try as many positions as possible, these last few are for you.

The Wheelbarrow

The Wheelbarrow one is all about the receiver's upper body strength and the penetrator's back and leg strength. Barring some kind of Olympian training you each have, this is probably a bit of a transition position rather than anything that’s going to lead to long-lasting sex or orgasm. Either way, have the receiving partner start on all fours, and then you lift up their pelvis until you can penetrate them. Grasp them around the hips firmly and thrust. Rather than having your partner try to do vertical pushups, or you pulling them back and forth, both of which are liable to tire you out, try to do the work with your hips.

The Surfboard

This one requires a bathtub big enough to accommodate the size of both partners and can be enhanced by lighting a few candles and adding some champagne. It is important to only fill the bathtub up half way to avoid overflow when you both sit down. In this position, the male partner sits in the tub with his legs extended and gets to relax. The female partner sits on top of her partner and puts in the work. She can sit with her back facing him or face him positioned on her knees or with her feet flat in the tub. The water in the tub can wash away natural lubricant, but the feeling of the water between both bodies will feel amazing!

Sex in a Hot Tub

Is there a specific position for the hot tub? Probably not, but it’s a natural place for sex; you’re already in close contact with people wearing very little other clothing anyway. In addition to the jets of a hot tub being a wonderful masturbatory aid for people with clitorises, there are benches all around for the penetrating partner to sit on.

Scissoring

To be honest, aside from the awesomeness of the name, you might find this one a bit challenging. Scissoring involves you intertwining your legs together, and placing yourself at something approaching a 90-degree angle to each other. Insert yourself into your partner, and then move your hips to thrust in and out. You'll need to do this slowly and carefully, as it's pretty easy to slip out while scissoring. This position is pretty unique, because it involves very little eye contact, and places your heads pretty far away from each other, and your body position is such that you can't really use your hands to fondle your partner in any way.

The Pretzel

Like its namesake, the Pretzel position requires a bit of twisting to make it happen — and some knee endurance. Perfect for the receiving partner to be fully comfortable and let themself go, this puts the penetrating partner in full command of how fast and how deep they want to penetrate. As with all such kneeling positions, this one is going to seriously test your leg muscles and how cramp-proof you are, but the effort is always worth it.

The T-Position

Most positions are have your bodies more or less lined up; here, this one involves putting the “dick” into perpendicular. Have the receiving partner start off by lying on their back; you lie on your side, and penetrate them from the side. This sort of thing either works best on a nice comfy floor or a queen- or king-size bed, as you’ll need a fair bit of real estate to pull this off. Once you’re inside your partner, you control the pace and depth of the thrusting.

The Spork

Sort of a cross between the T-position and Spooning, this one features the receiving partner on their back while penetrating partner, lying on their side, cradles the receiver and enters them from below. It's a very cuddly option that allows for a decent amount of tenderness (and the whispering of sweet nothings, or dirty talk, depending on what you're into), plus it's a great way to switch things up if your partner's most comfortable on their back and you're sick of Missionary-style positions.

The Sit 'n' Spin

This position uses the vibrations of your washer or dryer to add a little extra kick to your sexual experience. Sit on the edge of the machine while it’s running (spin cycle works best on a washer), and then have them mount you in Cowgirl position, or with their legs wrapped around. From there, your partner should feel the vibrations running through your penis, making the penetration all the more pleasurable. Best of all? Once you’re done, you’ll have clean clothes to change into.

Still hungry for more? Check out our guides to advanced positions, sex positions for men with big penises, sex positions for men with small penises, sex positions for people having first-time sex and for heavier lovers.

All illustrations by Carlee Ranger.

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