The Crab Sex Position: Deeply, Deliciously Unstable

If you’ve been dreaming of a wild and weird bedroom adventure, look no further than the crab sex position. It’s one of those positions that looks off-kilter, but doable until you take in the details. Nonetheless, once you get into it, the crab position feels surprisingly natural. 

Think of it as cowgirl in a sex swing, minus the sex swing, with added stability, and a dangerous amount of penile stretching. Now add deep penetration, hot power dynamics, and complete control for the receiver. 

Fortunately, you won’t need claws, but you will need tricep strength and some serious balance. A sense of humor probably wouldn’t hurt either. 

Looking for new and exciting ways to shake up a boring routine? Try sex furniture—it’s exactly what you think it is and more. For some inspiration, check out our list of the 5 best sex furniture positions, sure to get you thinking about some kinky redecorating. 

How to Do the Crab Sex Position

Here are the basics to get you started:

1. Start by getting into cowgirl: Giver lying supine, receiver straddling on top, facing forward.

2. The receiving partner will lean back into a reverse tabletop position, placing both hands behind them to take their weight. While checking in with their partner continuously about the angle of penetration, the receiver places their feet flat on either side of the giver’s torso.

3. The option is there to begin with penetration and enter the position slowly to test each angle of penile stretch. Secondarily, once in the position, the giver can enter. It’s entirely personal preference. 

Once penetration is established, the partner on top will rock back and forth, shifting their weight from hands to feet—similar to swinging.

The crab sex position works best when both partners are in sync—rocking gently and using your arms and core to adjust the angle. With a slight tilt in the receiving partner’s pelvis, the crab position offers exceptional G-spot stimulation and deep, precise penetration.

If you want to make it easier, less muscle strain, and risk, place a pillow under the giver’s hips. This will lift them up, making the top partner’s job easier, while tilting the giver’s hips to cut down on penile strain. Tabu sells a 7-inch pillow made specifically for easing strain during sex and improving the angle of penetration.

Frankly, your main goals here: pleasure and not breaking their penis.

For a more intimate version, the receiver can bend at the waist, maintaining eye contact with the giver. 

For a wilder version, explore backdoor play in this position. The crab sex position is primed for different types of penetration.

With this kind of deep penetration, you want to be careful about going too deep, too quickly. If you’ve ever felt tenderness during penetration, you may have a bruised cervix. Learn more about what this is and how to avoid it in our article What is a Bruised Cervix?

Benefits of the Crab Sex Position

1. Deep penetration and personalized angles

The crab sex position requires a natural tilt that hits all the right spots for both partners. Whether you’re exploring G-spot, prostate, or anal stimulation, this angle delivers pressure and intensity that’s hard to match.

2. A fun, albeit tough, workout

Some sex positions are like a trip to the gym, and the crab sex position is no exception. Your abs, thighs, and arms will definitely feel the burn from this one. But the balancing act of the crab position is part of what keeps things interesting.

3. Watch the pleasure play out

From below, the giver has a full view of what’s playing out before them. It’s a satisfying show of dominance, pleasure, and intimacy that will keep them coming back for more.

4. Customizable

Both partners can easily adjust the depth, motion, and rhythm to fit their present desires. The penetrating partner can raise their hips to thrust deeply, or grind slowly, while the receiver can steal the show with angles.

5. A twist on the classics

Cowgirl is a fan favorite for a reason, but not all of us want to watch the same movie night after night. The crab sex position is a fresh, cheeky alternative that’s easy to slip in and out of when the mood strikes.

Safety is always the name of the game, but sometimes a couple of lucky swimmers will slip through. Learn the Real Deal on Plan B, and be prepared for any situation. 

Hot Tips for the Crab Sex Position

• Start Slow: Since this is a new position, and balance is so crucial, begin by gently rocking before picking up the pace.

• Use Your Legs: The receiving partner’s legs are planted for stability, giving them a little extra control over depth.

• Keep Communication Open: The angle and pressure can vary, and like I said, the goal is not to break the giver’s penis. So keep the line of communication open. A little mid-action feedback goes a long way.

• Add Some Support: A pillow under the giver’s hips is a game-changer. Just like in a yoga class: if you can’t touch the floor, bring the floor closer. If your muscles are strained or the angle is too tough to perfect, just bring their hips closer.

• Experiment with Touch: The giver’s hands are free to explore—use them. Tease their thighs, hold their hips, or explore extra stimulation. The crab position is meant to be playful.

If you’re new to external stimulation or just need a roadmap, How to Find the Clit is the best place to start.

• Play with Pace: Alternate between stillness and motion—slow grinds, small thrusts, and synchronized rocking can add tension and build arousal. 

The Bottom Line

The crab sex position has gained popularity for one simple reason: it combines the depth of rear-entry sex with the femme dominance of cowgirl. It’s a position that says, “I’m in charge, and you have a front seat to the show.”

This sex position fits any mood. Only have time for a quickie? Feel like taking things slow? The crab has you covered. With the right balance, rhythm, and communication, the crab sex position adapts to your needs. 

So the next time you feel like shaking things up, don’t be afraid to be shellfish.