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How to try the Anvil Sex Position for Sublime Pleasure

The anvil sex position

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Anvil Sex Position

Are you a fan of the classic missionary position but looking to make things a bit more exciting? Then the anvil sex position could be a great choice for you!

This guide explains how to try it, its benefits, and tips to help you get the most out of your new favorite position!

What is the Anvil Sex Position?

No, I’m not talking about the type of metal anvil you see in the cartoons. This anvil is a sex position and an incredibly satisfying one, to say the least!

The anvil position is a variation of the missionary position. Just like missionary, the penetrating partner is on top. The receiving partner lies on their back.

The difference with the anvil position is, the receiving partner bends their legs back so their knees are tucked in towards their chest. They put their ankles on their partner’s shoulders. The penetrating partner is above them, supporting their weight on their hands.

Any consenting adult can try the anvil sex position. It’s great for either vaginal or anal sex.

The position needs some flexibility but is fairly accessible with the right support and props.

Why Do People Like the Anvil Position?

Anvil position

You might have guessed a lot of the reasons people like this position. The main one is because it feels great!

It has all the benefits of missionary, like sexy eye contact, skin-to-skin contact, and that feeling of intimacy we all love. It allows for even deeper penetration than missionary, which is why I love it.

One of my favorite things about this sex position is the ability to watch the pleasure on my partner’s face during sex.

As the receiving partner, your hands are also free to stimulate your clit or penis. It’s also great for power dynamics if the receiving partner is submissive.

How to Perform the Anvil Sex Position

I’ve found that the easiest way to get into the anvil sex position is to start out with the receiver lying on their back. They can then spread their legs slightly and raise their knees up towards their chest.

The penetrating partner holds their weight on their arms, leaning over their partner. They can rest their hands on the bed on either side of their partner’s shoulders or torso.

The receiving partner can then put their ankles or calves on their partner’s shoulders.

The person top can enter their lover either vaginally or anally.

the anvil anal sex position

What Does the Receiving Partner Do in the Anvil Position?

The receiving partner needs to hold their position and enjoy themselves! They have their hands free to touch their partner, stimulate their clit or cock, or use sex toys.

Top tip – pop a pillow under your head and a wedge under your hips to help you maintain the position and increase comfort.

What Does the Penetrating Partner Do in the Anvil Position?

The penetrating partner is in control of the depth, angle, and pace of penetration.

They can make adjustments to see what feels best for both people.

Variations and Similar Positions

If you like the sound of the anvil position but it doesn’t seem quite right for you, check out some of the variations below.

Anal Anvil

anvil gay sex position

You might have guessed from the name – this is just the anvil position but focuses on anal sex. The receiving partner raises their hips further off the bed to give better anal access. I recommend putting a pillow under your hips to make this easier.

Spread Legs Anvil 

eagle sex position


This is the same as the classic anvil position, except the receiving partner spreads their legs and holds them up like in the eagle position.

I like this option because I find it better for clitoral stimulation. If you’re seeking an intense orgasm, I recommend giving this one a try!

Viennese Oyster

Viennese Oyster position

Are you super flexible and feeling like the anvil position just isn’t challenging enough for you? Then try the Viennese oyster.

You get into the anvil sex position, then the receiving partner stretches their legs all the way back so they’re at either side of their head. Bonus points if you can get your legs behind your head!

Praying Mantis

praying mantis position

The praying mantis gives a similar level of intimacy to the anvil position, but it’s more accessible.

Instead of bending both legs back, the receiving partner bends one leg and puts the other leg up on their partner’s shoulder. The penetrating partner kneels upright to enter their lover.

Mating Press

mating press sex position

In the classic mating press technique, the man gets on his knees or feet so that he can thrust directly down into his partner (as opposed to the in-and-out thrusting of the missionary position). Meanwhile, her legs need to be up by her shoulders while he thrusts.

Done right, this position is the best of both worlds: he gets more pleasure and better control while she gets deep penetration and better clitoral stimulation.

Tips to Enhance the Anvil Sex Position

I’ve included some of my top tips below to help you get the most out of this position:

  • Communicate: Focus on open and honest communication with your partner and set clear boundaries. Communicate during sex too – how else is your partner going to know what feels good for you? And, of course, mutual consent is vital.

  • Use protection: Don’t forget your protection (like condoms) – STIs and unwanted pregnancies kind of ruin the mood!

  • Use pillows: Sex is supposed to be comfortable. It’s not supposed to be a challenge (unless you want it to be). Using pillows and props can reduce physical strain and make things more comfortable for both partners.

  • Focus on gentle touch: With such an intimate position, it can feel great to focus on gentle, sensual touching. It can create an even deeper connection, provide intense stimulation, and strengthen your bond with your partner.

  • Use sex toys: I love adding sex toys to positions like this. It can make all the difference! Try vibrating cock rings or a bullet vibrator for targeted stimulation.

  • Experiment: Try different angles and variations to see what feels best. The penetrating partner can also experiment with different rhythms and paces of thrusting to create different sensations.

  • Use lube: Lube can reduce friction and make things more comfortable. It can even add some new sensations depending on which type you choose (think warming lubricants).

  • Switch back and forth to missionary: I love switching back and forth to missionary with the anvil sex position. Not only does it give you a break if you find the position difficult to hold, it also feels great and varies the sensations you’re experiencing.

Final Thoughts: The Anvil is Awesome

The anvil sex position is incredibly satisfying. It allows for close contact, feels amazing, and provides some variation from the missionary position.

It’s all about open communication, experimenting, and having a good time! So, why not give it a try?

author avatar
Samuel Davis Senior Author & Content Manager
With a background in journalism and a strong interest in psychology, Samuel combines his storytelling skills with a passion for exploring kink and fetishes, crafting content that's engaging, insightful, and fun for readers.✍️📚