Best Sex Positions: Different Sexual Positions to Explore

Sex positions are the formations partners take to have sexual intercourse. Whether you are a heterosexual, queer, or gay couple, there are many positions to explore so both partners can enjoy great sex. The missionary position is among the most commonly known; in this position, the bottom partner lies down, the top partner penetrates from above, and each person can see their partner’s face. However, there are many other creative ways to have sex, including standing positions and oral sex positions.

There is no single best position, which means each person can define their favorite positions for themself. As with all physical contact, communication in a relationship is critical. If you want safe sex, good foreplay, and deep penetration, you and your partner should discuss your preferred positions (bottom, top, or versatile) and how you like to engage sexually.

Trying out new positions can spice up your sex life and help you discover an untapped part of your sexual potential. Couples often get into routines, and new positions (or lubrications or sex toys) help them find fresh ways to connect and pleasure one another. This is also important in expanding our worldview: Sometimes, people believe certain positions are only for certain groups. For example, more than just gay men or members of the LGBTQ+ community can enjoy doggy style or anal sex positions.

The Kama Sutra, an ancient Sanskrit text, is more than a sex manual. Sex is one part of wellness; knowing how to enjoy mutual masturbation or trying out a new position can help you connect more deeply with your partner and yourself.

If you are looking for new positions, beginners and established couples can follow the sex tips below for ways to have sex, whether standing up or lying down. Some of these may take more patience, so when trying out these intimate positions, make sure you make time for more than a quickie:

• Bumper cars: This is an anal sex position in which the receiving partner lies on the bed and spreads their legs to a forty-five-degree angle. The penetrator lies on their partner but in the opposite direction facing the other edge of the bed. The two partners bump their genitals and buttocks together; this is challenging, and lube can help make it easier.
• Doggy-style: For doggy-style, one partner positions themself on their hands and knees (or elbows). The other partner can stand on their knees and use their hands to hold onto their partner’s hips. This position can be great for vaginal sex or anal penetration, whether with a penis, strap-on, finger, or other sex toys.
• Pretzel: The pretzel is another great position: The receiving partner lies on their side while the penetrating partner holds up the top leg and straddles the bottom leg. The top partner scoots closer, making this a strong position because of the depth of penetration and G-spot stimulation.
• Reverse cowgirl: The reverse cowboy position or cowgirl position is one of the most straightforward and versatile positions. This position involves one partner lying face-up as the other partner straddles them while facing away from them. The person lying down can penetrate their partner’s vagina or anus with their penis or a strap-on or other sex toy, and the partner who is on top can grind on their partner or use their fingers or a toy to stimulate themselves and/or their partner.
• Rusty trombone: This sexual position involves one partner rimming the other while simultaneously jerking off their penis. Partners can lie down, stand on their knees, or crouch over to face the receiving partner’s buttocks.

Some other forms of sex that do not rely on genital penetration include rimming, mutual masturbating, and giving or receiving hand jobs. Sometimes, foreplay involving a cuddle or spooning can lead to sexual activity. Penis owners and vulva owners can use dildos or vibrators to tease anal or clitoral stimulation for new sensations.

Craving a little more intimacy? Grab a MasterClass Annual Membership and learn more about open communication with your partners, experimenting in the bedroom, and being your own best sexual advocate with a little help from Emily Morse (host of the wildly popular podcast Sex With Emily).