Guide to Standing Sex: Tips and Positions for Standing Sex

Standing sex refers to the act of having sex while at least one partner is fully (or partially) standing upright. Standing sex positions offer creative and flexible avenues to sexual pleasure during penetrative sex (with either a penis or a strap-on dildo) or oral sex, including blowjobs, rimming, and cunnilingus. Standing sex suits couples of all gender identities and sexual orientations.

If you’re new to standing sex, it can be a little tricky to find a position that works. Be patient, keep trying, and consider the following tips:

1. 1. Choose your surface. Choosing the right surface for standing sex is key, especially if there’s a notable height difference between you and your partner. Whether it’s the edge of a bed, dresser, countertop, or couch, select a surface that’s both comfortable and allows for different angles and leverage. For example, if you’re in a shower, a non-slip spot—a ledge or bar—to plant you or your partner’s hands is always a good idea.
2. 2. Incorporate toys. To enhance pleasure during standing sex, incorporate toys like cock rings to encourage harder erections or pocket vibrators to stimulate the clitoris. Learn more about the different types of sex toys in our complete guide.
3. 3. Use your body weight. Correctly leveraging body weight can help stabilize both partners during standing sex, so look for ways to offset or shift it by placing a foot or hands on a nearby surface to create tension.
4. 4. Use lubricant. Use your favorite lube when trying a new position or a potentially awkward angle. Lubrication will help keep stroking motions smooth during any necessary adjustments.
5. 5. Use props. There are suction-based foot rests specifically made for shower sex, which you can place at the height and angle that works best for your session. Secure sex swings, bars, and straps to door frames for easy elevation and extra support, and wedge-shaped “ramp” pillows to help find the right angle.
6. 6. Change positions to avoid fatigue. Many standing sex positions rely on the strength of the involved parties to hold each other up, which can be tiring after a while. If either partner finds it difficult to climax while standing or muscle aches begin to take their toll, switch up the position or finish lying down.

There are many variations of standing sex, depending on height, flexibility, and setting. Here are three starting positions with lots of progression opportunities.

1. 1. Against the wall. The receiving partner stands against a wall or doorframe and wraps one leg up around the penetrative partner’s waist while they enter them from the front. The receiving partner can wrap both legs around the penetrating partner’s waist for a more advanced twist on this position.
2. 2. “The Freefall.” In this version of a standing doggy-style, both partners are standing, and the receiving partner bends at the waist, allowing access for penetration (or oral stimulation) from behind. This position enables the bodies to connect closely, which creates more intense sensations. As a bonus move, the receiving partner can play with their partner’s genitals or their own. Try this one in the shower.
3. 3. “Edge of the World.” For this position, one partner lies down on the edge of a bed, table, or any lifted surface so that everyone’s genitals are at the same height. The receiving partner should be relaxed and wholly supported by the surface. You can look into each other’s eyes and use your hands to explore each other’s bodies.

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