For most people, after discovering how enjoyable sex can be and settling into their favourite positions, the next step is often a desire to explore. Questions like “What else can feel this good?”, “What can feel even better?” and “What can I try that’s a bit more adventurous?”, start to arise.
That’s where we come in.
Three curious members of the 21 MAG team decided to delve into the world of sex positions, rounding up 21 of them to test. From vanilla to slightly risky, we explored it all in our quest to find the ultimate sex positions. If you want to learn which ones made the cut and which are better left in your fantasies, keep reading.
Below, we give you our ratings, honest opinions, and tips to maximize pleasure for these steamy sex positions. Whether you’re looking to spice things up or you’re simply curious about what’s out there, this list has something for everyone.
1. Missionary (8.7/10)
Lie on your back facing the ceiling while your partner gets on top and inserts their penis or strap-on into your vagina. When this position involves two people with vulvas, it starts the same: you or your partner lies on their back, and the other person gets on top. The difference here is you (the top) won’t lie between both her (the bottom’s) legs. The bottom will slip one of her thighs between the top’s legs. Essentially, you would both have your thighs pressed against each other’s clit. For added pressure, the bottom can lift their thigh, allowing the top’s clit to press further into the bottom’s thigh.
Dodos: Missionary gets a bad rep for being the ultimate vanilla move—the pillow princesses’ all-time fave. Hear me out though: what’s more sexy than being able to stare deep into the eyes of your partner and embrace them in the closest way possible while you both float in ecstasy? Only real lovers will understand. 8.
Zara: I actually really enjoy this. This is baby-making position number one. Yes please, stare into my eyes while you smash my brains out. I want to feel all the love and more. Definitely a 9 for me.
Aurayana: Again, I know many people sh-t on this position, but I don’t know… maybe it depends on the person, but I can’t explain the rush I get watching my partner come undone right above me, as they rhythmically drill into me. Solid 9.
2. Face Sitting (6/10)
Have your partner lie on their back while you lower yourself onto their face, facing whatever direction works for you. As your partner opens their mouth and begins to use their tongue and lips to eat you out, support yourself with your knees and hands to control the depth and angle of the sensations.
Dodos: Hmmm, this ride can either be a hit or miss. 6.
Zara: Tbh, this position makes me feel awkward. It also hurts my knees, but, it can be empowering sitting on his/her face. It’s a 6 for me.
Aurayana: Have you ever ridden someone’s face a little high? Let’s just say, except you need to give her a little break to breathe, you won’t be getting off that throne anytime soon. It gets a 6 though because sober? It’s a huge ball of discomfort.
3. Deep Impact (7.3/10)
Lie flat on your back and spread your legs apart, letting your partner slide between them. Lift your legs high and rest them on your partner’s shoulders. Try to relax as your partner inserts their penis or strap-on into your vagina. This position is ideal for deep penetration..
Dodos: Kind of boring. However, it definitely looks like it will get the work done. 5.
Zara: Talk about deep impact. An 8 hands down.
Aurayana: You cannot start out with this move. 9 times over 10 you’ll rate it low because it’ll probably hurt. This is something you build up to because when/if you get to the point where you need deeper penetration, this move hits all the right spots. 9.
4. Doggy (8.7/10)
Get on your hands and knees, lowering your chest as you arch your spine, inching your booty a little higher, giving your partner more access to enter you with a penis or strap-on from behind. They can hold your hips for control and leverage. This position allows for deep penetration and sometimes, a sense of dominance.
Dodos: A classic. Not much to say. If you know, you know. 9.
Zara: It has its moments, but I can’t call it a cult classic. Definitely overhyped in my opinion. 7.
Aurayana: Does this really need an explanation? It doesn’t matter if you’re with a partner who has a penis/strap-on or a vulva, this position allows for some of the sultriest lovemaking you’ve ever experienced. Imagine bouncing on your partner’s thigh or penis, as they grab unto your boobs and start nibbling down your neck. If you want to take this up a notch, do it in front of a mirror as you stare deeply into your partner’s eyes. 10.
5. Cow Girl (9.2/10)
Straddle your partner while they lie on their back. Lower yourself onto their penis or strap-on and take control of the movement, either by bouncing or grinding. This position gives you control over depth and pace.
Dodos: Being on top is so fun! Apart from this being one of the surest ways to hustle your nut with a guy. Think; your partner is cradled between your legs, they are leaning above with a possessive hand trying to hold your jaw or a curious mouth trying to clasp your nipples, and every time you slide up and back down, you watch in a mix of amusement and satisfaction as his gorgeous face scrunches up and you pull a cry out of him. 10!
Zara: It is true what they say, only a woman can truly make herself orgasm. Pro-tip: practice some hip rotation movements before trying this. A perfect 9.
Aurayana: Whether you’re exploring penetration or gunning for some clit on clit action, if you want an orgasm, this is one of the positions guaranteed to get you just that! The level of control with this move is unmatched. 8.5.
6. Reverse Cow Girl (4.3/10)
This is essentially cowgirl but with a twist. You’ll lower yourself onto your partner with your booty facing them. This angle provides a different sensation and allows for a visual treat for your partner as you ride them.
Dodos: I like this in theory. But in reality? Nah, the orgasm gap is too wide for women to be making men this happy during sexual intercourse. 2/10
Zara: Nah, not for me. This can be fun, but lol, no. 6.
Aurayana: Uhhh, based on what I’ve seen/pictured in my head alone, I’d give this a 5.
7. 69 (5.3/10)
You and your partner lie head-to-toe while engaging in oral sex(eating each other out, giving a blow job etc). This can get incredibly intimate and highly stimulating. Ensure to take breaks and check in on each other as often as you need to.
Dodos: It promotes equality. How? You’re getting what you’re giving. But at what cost? Staring at each other’s buttholes. Hard Pass. 4.
Zara: Definitely not. Imagine he farts in my face. 5.
Aurayana: In theory, I can kind of see what the person who came up with this position was thinking, but clearly, they didn’t get much practice. However, as I write this, I’m forced to reminisce on a time when this position felt so good! For that, it gets a 6.9.
8. Scissoring (8.7/10)
Lie facing each other with one leg over the other’s leg, creating what pretty much looks like a scissoring motion. Grind against each other for mutual clitoral stimulation.
Dodos: Scissoring should be renamed The Abidoshaker. An orgasm-guaranteed sex position. They can never make me hate you. Bonus point? There’s a zero per cent chance of getting pregnant. What’s not to love? 10/10.
Zara: I haven’t tried this yet, so I don’t know. Based on what I’ve seen, I’ll go with a 6.
Aurayana: The first thing you feel is the warmth. It’s enough to let a groan slip past as you begin to grind and rock into it. Cumming from this position, fully enjoying the ecstasy that comes from the build-up of this mind-blowing position, cannot fully be put into words. 10/10.
9. Faceoff (9.5/10)
Have your partner sit wherever they’re comfortable. After, gently straddle their lap. With a penis or strap-owning partner, if that’s what you’re feeling, allow them to insert themselves into you. With a vulva-owning partner, start to grind and rock into their tailbone while they do the same to your ass. If you can angle it just right, you might even get some clit on clit action. If you feel like it, wrap your legs around their waist while they support your back. This position allows for deep penetration and some intense eye contact.
Dodos: Cozy, intimate and creative without being discomforting. 9/10.
Zara: This is the ‘I want to crawl into your soul’ position. 10/10.
Aurayana: Good sex feels electrifying. Picture the frenzy that sometimes happens – when you can’t do anything but move up and down or, for clitoral stimulation, back and forth. Imagine being face to face with your partner, their arms wrapped firmly around you as you ride that wave until the pleasure begins to build and build. 9.5/10.
10. Sideways 69 (3.8/10)
Like with 69, lie on your sides, head-to-toe, and engage in oral sex on each other. This variation of the classic 69 can be more comfortable for some.
Dodos: You’re chilling with your best eater and then you guys manoeuvre into this position. Imagine this: he licks your clit and a wave of intense pleasure runs through you, so uncontrollably, your teeth sinks into his penis…and it detaches.
See. Let’s be doing things one by one—he gives you head, then you give him head. It will reach everybody. 4/10.
Zara: I have never suggested this, and I will never suggest it. This is awkward. Imagine if she/he is taller than you, how much would he have to bend? Lol 3/10.
Aurayana: Hmm, it does have its moments. It can be very hot. 4.5/10.
11. Wheel Barrow (1/10)
Have your partner stand while you get into a push-up position. They lift your hips and enter you from behind, holding your legs for support. This position requires strength but offers deep penetration.
Dodos: This is the kind of move you do when you are gunning for the gold medal at the Coitus Olympics because there’s no way anyone is *just randomly* doing this much in this economy. -2/10.
Zara: I’m sorry but this feels like way too much work. My poor arms. This is clearly not for short people, please. Nothing but 3/10
Aurayana: 2/10.
12. Cowboy (1/10)
To perform cowboy, start in the regular missionary position, where you lie on your back, and your partner gets on top. However, instead of having your partner kneel between your legs, he/she will essentially straddle you. Gently part your thighs a bit to allow your partner slip through and insert themselves into your vagina. When done right, this close contact increases friction and enhances clitoral stimulation due to the pressure between your bodies. Your partner can control the depth and angle of their thrusts, allowing for a more intimate and stimulating experience.
Dodos: I prefer cowgirls. 0.
Zara: Errrr 0.
Aurayana: Just because I’m curious, 3/10.
13. Cunnilingus (8.8/10)
Lie on your back or sit comfortably while your partner uses their mouth and tongue to stimulate your clitoris and vulva. Communication is key to guiding them to your most sensitive spots.
Dodos: I hope the first person who ever went down on a woman is having a beautiful day (in heaven.) If I could give it a hundred, I would. 10/10.
Zara: This is way too popular for the number of people who don’t know how to go down on a woman properly. However, when it’s done right, it’s the best feeling. 9/10.
Aurayana: This position isn’t one I typically go for. Maybe it’s my brain, but I usually have to block out the initial wetness of my partner’s tongue before I can attempt to get lost in the sensations. However, some of my most blind-blowing orgasms have come from this position and variations of it. For that, 7.5.
14. Ballet Dancer (4.3/10)
Stand on one leg, lifting the other leg around your partner’s waist while they support you and insert their penis or strap-on while standing. This position requires a certain level of balance but it also offers some closeness and that could lead to a more intense feeling.
Dodos: Apart from size, height matters. This is an ambitious move but when you consider the leg and torso height differences of many couples (maybe even you and your boo), you will notice that anatomically it won’t work. 6.
Zara: I’m too short for this one abeg. 3.
Aurayana: This can only work when you’re both in the mood to step out of your comfort zone and if you and your partner have similar height ranges. If there’s a drastic difference between your heights, someone will have to compensate for the other and it’s honestly, usually not worth the hassle. I’ll give it a 4.
15. The Sea Shell (6.5/10)
Lie on your back and pull your legs back towards your chest, allowing your partner to kneel and enter you deeply. This position creates a tight angle for intense stimulation.
Dodos: This is what it means to take a deep dive into a wet {redacted}. Ideal for quickies. 4.5
Zara: Not my favourite but I definitely recommend it. It hits. 7/10.
Aurayana: It’s perfect if you love deep-deep penetrations. 8/10.
16. Table Top (7/10)
Sit on the edge of a sturdy surface, like the edge of your bed or a table, while your partner stands or kneels in front of you. This position allows for easy access and deep penetration.
Dodos: Congratulations on turning your bed into one big sex prop! 7/10 for creativity.
Zara: This can either work or it won’t. Does he have to squat down to reach you? Will his knees start shaking from the triple exercise? 7/10, though, for the comfort.
Aurayana: This seems like it’ll give your partner the room and grip they need to basically go to Pound Town in you. There are times when that can be everything. It gets a 7.
17. The Notebook (6.7/10)
Stand facing your partner, wrapping your legs around their waist while they support you and enter from a standing position. This position is passionate and requires strength.
Dodos: This looks hot, but I’m not a petite babe. If someone carries me up in the middle of sex, I would immediately start thinking, “This boy better not drop me”, and the vibe will be ruined. 6.5. An extra 1.5 points if I can let go of my trust issues.
Zara: I’m always scared that someone will drop me. Are you sure you have enough arm strength? There’s only so much we can do like this. 7
Aurayana: With the right upper body strength and angling, this position could actually bang. 6.5/10.
18. The LeapFrog (10/10)
Start on all fours while your partner kneels behind you, lifting your hips slightly higher than usual. This position allows for deeper penetration and control.
Dodos: *extra points for a great arch* Extremely pleasurable. Ladies, if he puts a pillow underneath your stomach, he’s a keeper. 10/10.
Zara: This position leaves my toes curling. 10/10.
Aurayana: Doggy is great and all, but this? I think what I love the most about it is that you can stay in this position for a long, long time. Picture the weight of your partner pressing you into the bed as they lean into the palms they’ve laid on your back. Now, imagine their thrusts starting to increase. 10/10 across all boards.
19. Tea Spooning (8.3/10)
Start by lying on your side with your partner behind and curved into you. It starts out a lot like the spooning-cuddling position. You can bend your knees slightly for comfort and to allow your partner easily insert their penis or strap. This position is perfect for deep, gentle penetration and allows your partner to wrap their arms around you, providing a sense of closeness and intimacy. You can enhance this by stimulating your clit using your hand or a small vibrator.
You can also perform this position by getting on your knees while your partner cradles you from behind. After engaging in a bit of foreplay, arch a little so your partner can slip their strap-on or penis into your vagina or reach around and engage in either nipple, clitoral or vaginal play. This position can get sweaty and heated pretty quickly.
Dodos: Tea spooning when standing? No baby, let’s move to the bed or couch. Let’s go under the sheets. Let’s get as close as we can physically get. Let’s take in each other’s scent. Let our hands wander in exploration. Let it slip in. Oops. 7/10.
Zara: Imagine his fingers around your neck while your arms try to snake around him for support. Yes, daddy. 10/10.
Aurayana: It can go slow or get a little heated. Whatever mood you’re in, there’s probably a variation that’ll match it. 8/10.
20. The Bridge (1.2/10)
Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the bed or whatever surface you’re using. Lift your hips into a bridge position, just like you would in yoga. Your partner will kneel or stand between your legs, entering you with deep, upward thrusts. If you both prefer, wrap your legs around their waist for a deeper fit.
Dodos: Uhm, this looks so uncomfortable. I won’t be participating. -10.
Zara: This position isn’t meant to be maintained for long, but damn does it have its impact. 7/10.
Aurayana: This position has more potential than people realise. In the right setting and with the right person, you may just find yourself asking for more. 6.7/10.
21. The Pretzel (9.8/10)
Lay on your side with one leg extended straight and the other bent at the knee. Have your partner kneel, and straddle your straight leg while lifting your bent leg over their shoulder. This is where they then insert their penis or strap on or start rocking into your vulva with theirs. This position allows for deep, angled penetration and sensational clitoral stimulation.
Dodos: This is the position you adopt when you and your beloved partner are ready to start a family. The pretzel is a special type of lovemaking; it’s how black girls who grow into gorgeous, ambitious black women who create generational wealth for their families are conceived. 10/10.
Zara: 9.5 on soul sex level. This position is everything. This is Baby Maker 2.0. It is is never pull-out again position.
Aurayana: This isn’t a position that you want to end quickly. It typically starts slow but when that tension builds? The grinding or thrusting sensation can be toe-curling and eye-rolling. 10/10.
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