9 Best Positions to Have Sex Standing Up (And Make It Feel *Really* Good)
For when you just can't wait to make it to bed, or chair, or tabletop, let these positions be your guide.
We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we love. Promise.
Standing sex positions are essential to moments of raw, urgent lust. They’re perfect for when you cannot wait another second to get your hands all over each other. Forget the bed I need you now kind of vibes.
But standing sex has other bonuses besides easy access when you’re overcome by passion. “Standing sex can bring a sense of closeness and novelty to your sex life,” says sex and relationships psychotherapist Sarah Kelleher, LCSW. Changing things up is a great way to bond over a new shared experience while also experiencing pleasure—aka, stellar multi-tasking. “It’s also a great option for folks who prefer not to lie down due to physical discomfort or mobility differences,” she says.
The big caveat is that standing sex can be challenging. “Like shower sex, sometimes standing sex is not always as effortless and sexy in practice as it is in theory,” says Kelleher. Height differences can pose difficulty, but standing positions generally can also just be physically arduous. (See: Standing 69).
Nevertheless, there are a few to make standing sex hot, fun, and slightly easier. “Walls and furniture are your friends,” says Kelleher. Sit on a counter, lean against a chair, or try it on steps. “Make sure there’s stable footing and don’t be afraid to adjust your angles.”
Don’t be afraid to bring in sex toys, either. “Standing with support makes a hand or two available to apply a toy like the Magic Wand to the vulva, clitoris, or perineum,” says Kelleher. You can also try a sex swing! “Sex on a swing is unrivaled,” says certified sex educator Sarah Tomchesson, marketing director at Magic Wand. You’ll have an easier time thrusting, your hands are free for toys and stroking, and it's the closest feeling of weightless sex we have on here on planet Earth. Sounds great, doesn’t it?
If you’re still not totally convinced, try to expand your definition of what standing sex even is. “It doesn’t have to involve both or multiple parties standing, and also doesn’t have to be penetrative,” says sex educator Laura Borichevsky, founder of Sex Outside. Try standing oral, masturbation, or just take a shower with your partner and hand them the shower-head. Et voila, you’re doing it!
Ready? Defy gravity with these nine delightful standing sex positions.
The Mirror
If you have a little voyeur and/or exhibitionist in you, try doing it next to a mirror. “This turns up the eroticism with eye contact, self-viewing, and the thrill of being watched (even if it’s just by yourselves),” says Kelleher. “It’s also a great opportunity for praise, dirty talk, or giving playful feedback.” Try bent-over penetration on each other, or have one of you use a toy on the other while you both watch.
SHOP NOW Magic Zenith, $123, Good Vibes
On Tap
Use some local furniture to help you in your standing quest. One partner stands with their back against a table or countertop and props one leg up on a chair, which opens the hips slightly. The other partner stands for penetration (or oral, or a directed hand job, or whatever you want.) “This position offers a more open hip angle, which can increase pleasure and comfort,” says Kelleher. “It’s great for partners who want the standing experience with less intensity or strain, and it offers great access for clitoral or manual stimulation.”
SHOP NOW Satisfyer Legendary Duo Penis Ring, $32, Adam & Eve
The Bathroom Quickie
The bathroom might not be the sexiest place to get it on, but it is one of the most private, and you’ll always have something to lean on—basically, everything you need for spontaneous standing quickie. “There’s something sexy about leaning over a bathroom sink, widening your stance, and watching a hand or penis fuck you in a mirror. The person can grab your hips, smack your ass, or reach around for your tits,” says sex and relationships writer Ryn Pfeuffer, author of 101 Ways to Rock Online Dating. Make sure you carry some lube with you if you’re trying to keep things quick!
SHOP NOW Coconut Love Oil, $27, Woo More Play
The Swinger
Having trouble getting comfortable? “Take some of the weight off from both of you so you can actually relax enough to enjoy it,” says former Playboy TV and radio host Miyoko Rifkin. A sex swing can do the hoisting for you, and can also be super helpful if you have a big height difference—just adjust the straps up or down and you’re good to go.
SHOP NOW Bondage Boutique Soft Over-the-Door Sex Swing, $43, Lovehoney
The Door Jam
This isn’t quite the spontaneous up-against-the-wall-have-me-right-now vibe that makes standing sex so sexy, but if you're willing to take a few moments to arrange yourselves, this will give you deep penetration and perfect internal stimulation. Lean back against the door frame for stamina/leverage and you'll have your hands free to roam.
Yourself on the Shelf
Perch your ass on the very edge of a counter or dresser top. Your partner stands to enter, but instead of them thrusting, put your feet into their hands and have them rock you back and forth over their strap-on or peen. New sensations plus super yummy, direct focus on the top wall of your V.
The Tight End
You know the “hike” part of a football game? Borrow the stance and lean over, bending your knees. Touch the ground or brace your hands on your knees. Your partner enters, standing from behind, entering a hole of y'all's choice. If your partner has a penis, further the football metaphor with some adept ball handling—just reach back and gently cup and stroke their balls.
Standing O
If you're feeling a little BDSM-y (which is not a word but totally a real thing), invest in a pair of over-the-door restraints. Your hands are bound above your head while your partner kneels on the ground before you, leaving you helpless to do anything but succumb to the very good things they are doing with their mouth. (If you're not trying to go all out, this still works if you just hold on to the doorknob.)
SHOP NOW Door Jamb Cuffs, $32, Babeland
The Jack and Rose
If you're athletic, unduly risky, and a little bit extra, have your partner stand up with their legs bent and feet slightly apart to brace themselves. They lift you (jump a little to give ‘em a break) until you're penis- or strap-on height and they can penetrate. Bend your legs and wrap your feet back around your partner’s bum. They wrap their legs around your waist, you lock your arms back through theirs. Try not to fall. (For an easier version: Do the same thing but stand next to a sturdy counter and rest your hands on it.
Have We Reached Peak Goon?
I Gave a Handy at the Frat Bro Holiday Party
How to Buy Your First Sex Toy
Steamy Sex Games for Couples
