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Criss Cross Sex Position: The X-Traordinary Move That Feels Amazing

he is sitting in Criss cross position and pleasuring her

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Criss Cross Sex Position

Do you love the missionary position but you’re looking to spice things up? Well, the crisis cross sex position could be the perfect option for you!

This article will tell you everything you need to know to try this exciting position!

What Is the Criss Cross Sex Position?

The crisis cross position is similar to missionary in that the receiving partner lies on their back, but this time the penetrating partner stands up. The receiver has their legs lifted and crossed, with their feet on their lover’s shoulders. Now the crisis cross name makes sense, right?

This position is also known as the ‘X position’. There are other varieties, such as a rear-entry version. But for this article, we’re focusing on the criss cross missionary position.

This position can work for either vaginal or anal sex. This also makes it perfect for partners of any gender pairing (with the addition of a sex toy for those without a penis).

Criss cross sex position

Is it Accessible?

Yes! This is one of my favorite positions both as the giver or receiver because it’s fairly easy to do and it’s accessible.

If you’re plus-sized and have a large belly, it’s also much easier than missionary because there’s more space between you and your partner. Plus neither partner is leaning their weight on the other. As a queer, plus-sized, disabled woman, what more could I want?

If it doesn’t suit you, you can try some sex positions variations or adapt it slightly to make it work.

What Are the Benefits?

So, why do people like the X position? There are tons of reasons!

The main one is pretty obvious – it feels good! It creates a tighter fit which can make penetration more intense and pleasurable.

It also leaves your hands free to touch your lover or involve sex toys (if you’re thinking of a vibrator or cock ring, we’re on the same wavelength).

It has all the benefits of missionary too! Plus, you get a great view of your partner’s body.

So, How Do You Do It?

The good news is that performing the criss cross position is pretty easy for both partners.

The receiving partner lies on their back with their ass towards the end of the bed. The penetrating partner stands facing them.

The receiver lifts their legs and the giver slides inside. The person on the bottom then slowly crosses their legs and rests their feet or calves on their partner’s shoulders.

The giver can support their partner’s legs or ass as they thrust.

The receiver can adjust the angle of their ass and hips. They can also play around with how tightly their legs are crossed to see what feels best.

Prefer Something a Bit Different? Here Are Some Other Positions

If the criss cross position doesn’t sound quite right for you, or you just want to shake things up a bit, here are some other similar positions to experiment with.

Splitting Bamboo

Just like with the X position, the receiver lies on their back. This time the giver kneels in front of them. The receiver lifts a leg and puts it over their lover’s shoulder. The other leg is bent and resting on the bed. Hello, deep penetration!

Butterfly

The butterfly sex position is another favorite of mine and you’ll see why. It’s basically the same as the criss cross position but the receiver’s legs aren’t crossed and the giver kneels in front of them. Bonus points if the giver lifts their lover’s hips to get even deeper!

Adapted Butterfly


If you struggle to hold your hips up or just want some extra support as the receiver, why not pop a pillow under your hips? The adapted butterfly is a more accessible option and offers deeper penetration.

Legs Closed Variation

If you find crossing your legs too tough, how about keeping them closed? The receiver can rest one or both legs on one of their lover’s shoulders. You’ll still get that tight penetration you’re looking for. You can adjust it so it feels good for you!

Banana Split

interracial coupe in banana split position

Who doesn’t love a good ice cream sundae? It’s creamy, it’s delicious, and it always hits all the right spots. Well, the banana split sex position is no different! And as an added bonus, it’s lactose-free!

Don’t worry – there’s no ‘bananas’ being split in this position. It’s all about pleasure and flexible fun.

The banana split is a sex position where the receiving partner lies on their front with their legs spread as far as they can get them. Ideally, wide enough that their legs are in ‘the splits’.

Let’s Make It Even Better!

Are you ready to give it a go? I’ve included my top tips below to help you get the most out of it:

  • Talk to your partner first about what you want to try and whether you have any concerns.

  • Make sure you both fully consent.

  • Use protection (I know, it sounds boring but it’s important)!

  • Make adjustments, such as trying different variations or using pillows to help you get comfortable.

  • Try adding in toys or other elements like bondage to make things even more exciting.

  • Play around with different leg placements, rhythms, and depths of penetration to see what feels best for both of you.

  • Have fun and don’t put too much pressure on yourself!

Criss Cross Your Way to Climax!

The criss cross position is a fun twist on missionary with many of the same benefits. It’s great for romance and deep penetration, and it creates a deliciously tight fit.

So cross those legs and have some mind-blowing fun! Enjoy!

author avatar
Ann-Marie D'Arcy-Sharpe Senior Author & Content Editor
Ann-Marie D'Arcy-Sharpe is a writer and blogger with 8 years of experience creating content across a range of niches, with a special focus on health and wellness. Passionate about her work, Ann-Marie puts her all into every project, delivering content that’s both engaging and insightful✍️📚