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Illustration of The Arch
Anatomy and biomechanics

The receptive person sits astride the penetrating person, with knees bent and feet flat on the floor or bed. The penetrating person can be seated or lying down, with legs extended or bent depending on the variation.

Why this position works

This position allows for deep penetration and active control over the intensity and rhythm of the act. Additionally, it facilitates eye contact and communication between partners.

Physical effort: Medium Posterior

The Arch: Deep Sexual Position

The Arch is a sexual position where the receptive person straddles the penetrating person, allowing for deep penetration and active control over the intensity and rhythm of the act.

Also known as: Aries / The Mount / The Horse

Variations of this position

Variant: The Reclined Arch

The penetrating partner lies on their back, while the receptive partner straddles them, allowing for gentler and more controlled penetration.

  1. The penetrating partner lies on their back on the bed.
  2. The receptive partner straddles the penetrating partner, with knees bent and feet flat on the bed.
  3. Both adjust the position to ensure comfortable and deep penetration, using pillows if necessary.

Variant: The Seated Arch

The penetrating person sits on a chair or the edge of the bed, while the receptive person straddles them, allowing for a more upright and active penetration.

  1. The penetrating person sits on a chair or the edge of the bed.
  2. The receptive person straddles the penetrating person, with legs bent and feet resting on the floor.
  3. Both adjust the position to ensure comfortable and deep penetration, using pillows if necessary.

Variant: The Inverted Arch

The receptive person straddles the penetrating person but in the opposite direction, allowing for deep penetration and greater control over intensity.

  1. The penetrating person lies on their back on the bed.
  2. The receptive person straddles the penetrating person but in the opposite direction, with their legs bent and feet resting on the bed.
  3. Both adjust the position to ensure comfortable and deep penetration, using pillows if necessary.

✓ Tips

  • Make sure both of you are comfortable and stable before starting.
  • Use pillows or cushions to adjust the height and angle of penetration.
  • Communicate constantly to adjust the rhythm and depth according to your preferences.
  • Avoid sudden movements that could cause injury to the lower back or joints.

Key facts

Interaction type
vaginal sex
Active anatomy
Penis
Receptive anatomy
Vagina
Main stimulation
G-spot
Setups and participants
Couple · 2 people Hetero

Frequently asked questions

Is this position suitable for people with back problems?

Yes, but it's important to adjust the height and supports to maintain a comfortable posture and avoid unnecessary tension.

Can this position be performed on different surfaces?

Yes, it can be performed on a bed, floor, sofa, or any surface that allows for stable and comfortable support.

Is it possible to vary the intensity of penetration in this position?

Yes, the receptive person can control the depth and rhythm of the movement, adjusting it according to their preferences and those of their partner.

Safety and evidence 1 topic · 2 clinical and academic references

Scientific context for common terms used on this page. Keeping these terms makes the content easier to understand; the sources clarify what is established and what remains uncertain.

G-spot: what the evidence says

“G-spot” is a widely used term for a sensitive area of the anterior vaginal wall. Scientific literature has not established a discrete anatomical structure with an agreed location, size and nature; sensitivity and response can vary between individuals.

Sources
O'Connell HE, Sanjeevan KV, Hutson JM. Anatomy of the clitoris. The Journal of Urology. 2005. PubMed ↗
Vieira-Baptista P, et al. G-spot: Fact or Fiction? A Systematic Review. Sexual Medicine. 2021. PubMed ↗

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