You know when you stick a key in a door and sometimes you have to jiggle it a little to open it up? The right sex position is just like that, and can unlock a world of pleasure.

Part of the beauty of sex is in exploration, and positions are an irreplaceable instrument to guide your journey. Everyone has a favorite and there’s an encouraging splendor in the variety offered.

The Best Sex Positions

While most of these positions were likely designed with heterosexual couples in mind, they can also be used for couples who are LGBTQ+. With a little imagination and sometimes a strap-on, we can make anything work in the bedroom for everyone.

Missionary: There’s nothing wrong with a top-shelf classic. This position is considered the most vanilla but it offers a profound level of intimacy and deep penetration. One partner lies on their back while the other lies on top of them, face-to-face. Stare into each other’s eyes while feeling euphoric pleasure.

Doggy Style: Another all-time favorite, doggy style provides deeper penetration and the capacity for working different angles. One partner kneels on all fours while the other partner enters from behind for mutual satisfaction.

Cowgirl: While this one does have girl in the title, any person can put on a cowboy hat and ride off into the sunset. In this position, one person lies down and the other sits on top, allowing the top to control the cadence of the clapping and the depth of penetration. The top can face their partner or face away from them for reverse cowgirl.

Spooning: What if you took the most tender act of physical comfort and then started fucking? With both partners lying on their sides and facing the same direction, the person in the back of the line finds the right angle and optimal leg positions to begin penetrating. The loving, sex-fueled embrace can be quite intimate and comfortable, not to mention super hot.

Scissors: An absolute staple in lesbian relationships, scissoring the act of pressing your genitals against your partner’s in a scissor-like position. Success with this position is more about hip control than the usual push-and-pull. It’s a bit tricker for penetration considering the downward angle required but it can be worth the effort if you go slowly and safely. You know what scissors look like so I’m sure you don’t need an explanation to sexily cut each other up.

Other Interesting Sex Positions

Prone Bone: If you love doggy style and have never tried the prone bone position, please correct your mistake. An exquisitely pleasurable position for many, prone boning requires one person to lie face down while the other mounts from behind. Work with different angles by raising the hips of the person laying down flat on their stomach with pillows.

The Lotus: Imagine a serene, intertwined dance. In this deeply romantic position, both partners sit facing each other, legs intertwined like a blooming lotus flower. A deep connection, a compelling angle for penetration and a comfortable stance make this position a true beauty.

The Wheelbarrow: Let’s get to work! The Wheelbarrow is a playful and acrobatic position requiring flexibility and strength in which one partner supports their weight with their hands on the floor while the other holds the other afloat by grabbing their legs or hips while penetrating from behind. Plow away.

What to Know Before Trying a New Position

Most of us are not gymnasts or yogis. Before trying a new sex position, consider your flexibility, strength and physical limitations. Some positions can be high-stakes with a risk of injury if not taken seriously. When trying out a new position, start slowly, respect your limitations and listen to your body. With arms locking, hips thrusting and legs flinging, it’s quite easy for sexy time to turn into emergency room time. Ease into everything.

Modify positions as needed by using pillows or props for support. Use your environment to help you, such as stairs to assist with height differences, the edge of the bed to find new angles, (sturdy) tables and so on. And of course, if a position feels uncomfortable or painful, don’t hesitate to stop and try something else. Open and honest communication is key!

Different Sex Positions Can Be Fun

To approach your partner about trying a new sex position, create a comfortable atmosphere where you’re both relaxed. Start by expressing your desire for intimacy and talk about the position you want to try.

Be mindful of your partner’s reaction. If they seem hesitant, don’t push it. Instead, reassure them that it’s OK to feel nervous or unsure. Offer to research the position together or watch a video to get a better idea of how it’s done.

The goal is to explore new experiences together and deepen your connection. By approaching the conversation with openness, playfulness understanding and a sense of adventure, you can create a positive and exciting experience for both of you.

Not every position will be a good fit for every body, so don’t be afraid to fail — just don’t get hurt! Plus, maybe you’ll get a good workout and you can get a lil’ treat after.

Do you want to try these sex positions but you’re unsure of your relationships status? Maybe you’re in a situationship.