Legs on shoulders is a penetrative sex position in which the receiving partner's legs are lifted and rested on the shoulders of the penetrating partner. The receiving partner typically lies on their back while the penetrating partner kneels or stands in front of them, holding or supporting the legs against their shoulders. This position significantly increases the angle and depth of penetration compared to a standard missionary position, and it also alters the angle at which the penetrating partner's body makes contact with the receiving partner's pelvic region. It is one of the more commonly explored variations of face-to-face intercourse and can be adapted for vaginal or anal penetration. The position allows for eye contact and physical closeness while also enabling deeper physical engagement. It can involve varying degrees of flexibility on the receiving partner's part, and the intensity can be adjusted by changing the height of the hips, the angle of the legs, or the positioning of supporting pillows or furniture. It is popular among people who enjoy deep penetration, a sense of closeness, and a degree of physical intensity in their sexual experiences.
In practice, the receiving partner lies flat or at a slight incline, with their hips either on the bed or elevated by a pillow. The penetrating partner lifts the receiving partner's legs one at a time and rests them against their own shoulders, then moves into position for penetration. The result is a significant tilt of the receiving partner's pelvis, which changes the internal angle and generally allows for notably deeper penetration than flat missionary. Many people find that this angle also increases pressure against the front wall of the vagina or the prostate gland in anal variations, which can feel more intense or pleasurable. The position maintains face-to-face contact, which many partners find intimate, and allows the penetrating partner to use their hands to hold the hips, support the lower back, or stimulate other areas. Variations include crossing the ankles behind the partner's head for even more tilt, or keeping only one leg raised for an asymmetrical angle that reduces flexibility demands. Some people are drawn to this position for the sense of physical openness and vulnerability it creates, while others appreciate the degree of control it gives the penetrating partner over pace and depth. The position works on beds, sofas, or with the receiving partner near the edge of a surface for easier access.
Clear communication before and during this position is important because it involves depth and angle of penetration that some people find intense or uncomfortable. The receiving partner should have the flexibility to comfortably bring their legs up; forcing or pushing beyond a comfortable range can cause hip, lower back, or hamstring strain. Use pillows under the hips to reduce pressure on the lower back. The penetrating partner should check in regularly, as deep penetration can cause cervical or rectal discomfort. Establish a signal or safeword to pause or stop at any time. Go slowly at first and adjust angles based on ongoing feedback.
It depends entirely on the individual. Some people find the depth and angle very pleasurable, while others experience discomfort, particularly if penetration reaches the cervix or if there is tension in the hips and hamstrings. Going slowly and communicating throughout helps both partners find a comfortable version of the position.
Average flexibility is usually sufficient for a basic version of the position. Using a pillow under the hips reduces how far the legs need to travel. People with limited hip or hamstring flexibility can try keeping the legs at a lower angle on the arms rather than fully up on the shoulders.
The primary difference is the angle of the pelvis, which creates noticeably deeper penetration and changes the internal pressure points. Missionary with legs flat keeps the body more aligned, while legs on shoulders tilts the pelvis upward, altering both depth and the direction of thrust relative to internal anatomy.
Yes, the position works well for anal penetration and is commonly used for that purpose. The pelvic tilt can make access easier and may increase pressure on the prostate. Ample lubrication and especially slow, communicative pacing are important for anal variations.
The penetrating partner's hands are largely free and can be used to support the receiving partner's lower back, hold the hips to help control depth, or provide manual stimulation to the genitals or other erogenous zones. This freedom of the hands is one practical advantage of the position.
The main physical risks are lower back strain for the receiving partner and hip or hamstring discomfort if the legs are pushed beyond a comfortable range. Using pillows, moving slowly, and not forcing the legs further than they go easily reduces these risks significantly.
Reviewed by Reviewed by the Jar of Kinks editorial team