November Position of the Month: The Backdoor Plank
By: Katie Mitchell, M.A., LPC, CST
Senior Lead Clinical and Sex Therapist
When it comes to cultivating healthy, intimate relationships, communication, trust, and shared exploration are essential. For couples who are looking to deepen their emotional and physical connection, a thoughtful approach to physical intimacy can be a powerful tool. One aspect of this journey involves trying new experiences in the bedroom, and today we will explore a lesser-known sexual position: The Backdoor Plank. Before diving into the details, it is important to emphasize that introducing new positions or sexual techniques should always be a consensual, mutual exploration between partners. Open, honest communication about desires, boundaries, and comfort levels is key to maintaining a positive and respectful sexual relationship.
Setup: The Backdoor Plank is a variation of the classic doggy style position that emphasizes a unique balance between closeness, control, and comfort. For this position, the partner being penetrated will support themselves on their forearms (most comfortable to do on a sturdy surface like the bed, couch, or floor) in a plank-like position. The penetrating partner will kneel behind their partner in a typical doggie style set-up. The slight change in elevation and positioning (compared to tradition doggie style) allows for a deeper angle of penetration while maintaining physical proximity, which can foster a sense of both vulnerability and connection. Once penetration has occurred, then communication is key to makes changes to thrusting speed, positioning/angles, and adding other supports.
Benefits:
Versatility: What makes this position particularly appealing is its versatility. Whether you are aiming for slow, intimate moments of connection or seeking more intensity, The Backdoor Plank allows couples to explore a range of sensations, all while maintaining the physical closeness that can enhance emotional intimacy.
Increased Trust and Vulnerability: Sexual exploration often requires vulnerability, and positions like The Backdoor Plank offer opportunities for partners to express trust.
For this position, one partner will be in a more submissive role and/or physically exposed, which can foster feelings of surrender and openness. For couples who struggle with control or power dynamics outside of the bedroom, this type of experience can facilitate deeper emotional release and mutual trust.
Enhanced Communication: Any new sexual position requires communication-whether it is about comfort, boundaries, or pleasure. Discussing how each partner feels during The Backdoor Plank can open up new avenues for verbal and non-verbal communication, improving how partners express their desires both in and out of the bedroom.
Building Connection Through Shared Experience: Engaging in shared sexual experiences can strengthen bonds by allowing couples to explore something new together. The physical connection in The Backdoor Plank mirrors the emotional closeness many couples seek in their relationships, blending physical pleasure with a sense of emotional security.
Recommendations for success: I will begin by making my standard recommendations (as always): engage in foreplay to help aid in both partners being aroused and ready. If natural lubrication is a struggle, be sure to keep added lubrication readily available. Start slowly, safely, and comfortably. Communication is Key: Discuss expectations and comfort levels before introducing the position. Encourage each partner to express how they feel and be willing to adjust based on feedback. Use Support: Depending on your physical capabilities, pillows or cushions can help support the lower back, forearms, or knees, making the experience more comfortable for both partners. Prioritize Aftercare: After exploring new sexual positions or experiences, check in with your partner emotionally. This can be as simple as cuddling, sharing affirmations, or discussing how each person felt during the experience.
It is worth repeating that the success of any sexual exploration relies on mutual consent and respect. No position, no matter how exciting or physically stimulating, should be attempted without the enthusiastic agreement of both partners. Healthy relationships are built on the foundation of respect, understanding, and open dialogue.
Many couples fall into routines, both in daily life and in the bedroom. While consistency can offer stability, it is also beneficial to keep the relationship dynamic and exciting. Introducing new elements into your sexual repertoire, such as "The Backdoor Plank," can reignite passion and prevent boredom or stagnation. Sexual intimacy is often a reflection of emotional intimacy. Couples who explore new positions together may find that they are also more open to trying new activities outside the bedroom-whether that is in hobbies, communication styles, or emotional vulnerability. Essentially, sexual exploration can act as a microcosm of the broader relationship, encouraging growth, adaptation, and deeper connection. Here’s to exploring something new this November!