Okay, real talk: the first time I heard about the crab sex position, I laughed out loud. I thought, “What kind of Cirque du Soleil business is this?” But once I tried it, I was blown away.
And before you freak out thinking this position is only for yoga instructors or contortionists, let me stop you there. No matter your size, shape, or flexibility level, this position has some sexy quirks that can work with your body – trust me.
If you’re looking to spice things up and explore angles that you didn’t even know existed, the crab sex position might just change your bedroom game. So let’s break it all down.
What Is the Crab Sex Position?
Origins and Name Explanation
The name “Crab” isn’t just for giggles – it literally comes from the position your body mimics: back arched, hands and feet on the floor, kind of like doing a reverse tabletop or a trippy gym-class crab walk. But this isn’t about awkward stretches. This is about control, exposure, and an incredibly intimate twist.
While its exact origin is murky (like many adventurous positions), it’s become a fave among sex-positive educators and body-empowered couples for one big reason: it opens up an entirely new level of intimacy, especially for larger bodies or people who want to keep their hips supported while still being creative.
How It Looks and Works
Here’s how the crab position goes: you start by sitting on the floor or bed, then lean back onto your hands and lift your hips using your legs – basically a reverse tabletop. Your partner kneels or stands in front of you, entering from a seated or kneeling position, depending on height and the surface you’re using.
It can be face-to-face or reverse (think reverse cowgirl vibes). Either way, your hips are lifted, your chest is exposed, and there’s so much potential for eye contact, hand movement, and even clitoral stimulation during penetration.
Why Try the Crab Position?
Benefits for Physical Pleasure
The crab prioritizes pelvic tilt and control – which means, if you’re someone who loves stimulation along the front wall (hello G-spot), this position lets you experiment with exactly how much pressure you want and from what angle.
Your partner also gets a great view and a lot of access, making it easy to reach your hot spots with their hands or mouth while inside. Multi-tasking at its sexiest.
Unique Angles and Deeper Connection
In most penetrative positions, one partner is often “doing” while the other is “receiving.” But here? You’re both engaged. You move your hips together. You keep eye contact. You hold each other steady. It’s collaborative, communicative, and deep in more than just the physical way.
Fun and Playful Bedroom Variety
Even if you don’t make crab your go-to, it’s perfect when you want something new. It’s unexpected, playful, and honestly kind of funny during the initial setup – in the best way. Sex doesn’t have to be serious to be hot. And laughter is seriously arousing, okay?
How to Do the Crab Sex Position Safely
Setup and Proper Positioning
Start on a soft but firm surface, like a yoga mat, carpet, or sturdy bed. Lie back on your hands with your fingers pointing toward your feet (or out to the side if that’s easier on your wrists).
Lift your pelvis with knees bent and feet flat. Your hips should float slightly above the surface, supported by your arms and legs. Think reverse bridge pose – but sexier. Your partner can kneel, squat, or adjust height by adding cushions or blocks underneath their knees.
Comfort Tips and Modifications
If leaning on your hands is uncomfortable, place pillows or rolled towels under each wrist for support. Still too much? Try bending your elbows, supporting your upper back and head instead of holding yourself up. You’ll get a similar pelvic angle with way less strain.
Plus-size friends – you don’t need to raise your hips super high for this to work. Just a slight tilt can create the same internal stimulation magic. Make the move fit your body – not the other way around.
Useful Props or Support Items
- Yoga blocks or firm pillows: Great to support hands or knees.
- Non-slip mat or blanket: Helps avoid sliding.
- Put a wedge pillow or Liberator-style cushion under your buttocks: This can lessen wrist strain and elevate your hips for easier access.
- Wrist wraps: If you have joint pain or fatigue, soft compression wraps can make long holds feel easier.
Is the Crab Position Right for You?
Best for Flexibility and Core Engagement
I’ll be honest – crab requires a little bit of core activation. But it’s not about having ripped abs. If you can hold yourself up for just seconds at a time before using cushioning or lying back, you can do this position. Use breaks. Adjust. There’s zero shame in taking the adapted route. More comfort = more pleasure.
Partner Communication and Consent
Like with any new position, this needs a tiny conversation. Not a lifestyle summit – just: “Wanna try something a little unusual tonight?” If something feels off, stop, laugh it off, and switch it up. Exploration is sexy only when both partners are on board at every step.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Incorrect Leg or Arm Placement
Placing your hands too far back or keeping legs too wide can lead to aches or unstable balance. Keep your limbs close to your center of gravity. If it feels wobbly, reset. Straining = less fun.
Ignoring Comfort or Body Feedback
Your body talks. If your wrists hurt or your thighs cramp, pause. Crab isn’t about pushing through – it’s about creating new levels of comfortable pleasure. If your body’s saying “adjust, please,” listen to it. Always.
Tips to Maximize Pleasure
Adding Clitoral or Visual Stimulation
Because you’re open and tilted, it’s ridiculously easy to add fingers or toys for clitoral play. I personally love using a bullet vibe or suction toy during this position. It turns good into “oh-my-god-yes” real quick.
You also have amazing visibility. Your partner can literally see every reaction you make – blushes, moans, movement. That visual connection can take intimacy to a new level.
Incorporating Foreplay or Toys
- Wand massagers: Place them between your legs while your partner thrusts. You’ll thank me later.
- Butt plugs or anal beads: The position naturally opens you up and gives nice pressure against internal spots.
- Blindfolds and light bondage: Give over control while safely supported. Crab plus couple play = chef’s kiss.
Explore More Positions Like Crab
Crab Variants and Mobility-Based Moves
- Reverse Crab: Facing away from your partner adds a new psychological and sensory twist.
- Supported Crab: Use a low bench or wedge so you don’t hold any weight.
- Couch Crab: Sit on the edge of a couch instead of the floor. Comfort + leverage.
Complementary Positions for Variety
- Bridge: Like a lying-down crab with hips raised by shoulders and feet.
- Butterfly: Lie back on the edge of the bed with legs open and hips near the edge – similar pelvic angle, less strain.
- Cowgirl variations: Also allow body-led thrusting and hand-free stimulation.
Final Thoughts on the Crab Sex Position
So, here’s the deal: the crab sex position isn’t just for the ultra-flexy or the hyper-sexual. It’s for anyone who’s curious, open-minded, and ready for a little fun that’s both accessible and adventurous.
It’s not about perfection. It’s about play. Flirty chaos. New chambers of your body lighting up with pleasure. Whether you make it your new signature move or just try it once for laughs and moans, I promise you’ll walk (or crab-walk) away feeling sexier and more in tune with your body than ever.
Now go scuttle toward that orgasm. You’ve got this.
