American Pie
A classic American position with a sweet twist.
About This Position
The receiving partner lies on their back with a pillow under their hips, legs raised and resting on the penetrating partner's shoulders. This creates an optimal angle for G-spot stimulation while allowing for deep penetration — a classic that never gets old.
Best For
Anatomy & Physiology
Muscle Groups Involved
- Hamstrings
- Lower back
- Hip flexors
- Core
Angle of Penetration
Upward angle from the elevated leg position, deep penetration
Targeted Pleasure Zones
Body Contact Points
Step-by-Step Guide
The receiving partner lies on their back and places a firm pillow under their hips to elevate the pelvis. Then raises both legs and rests their calves or ankles on the penetrating partner's shoulders — the pillow + leg elevation creates the steep upward angle for G-spot targeting.
The receiving partner's legs on the shoulders keeps them elevated and out of the way, allowing the penetrating partner full access. The hips elevated on the pillow tilt the vaginal canal upward toward the G-spot on the anterior wall.
The penetrating partner kneels or stands between the elevated legs, aligning their pelvis with the tilted hips. Enter at the upward angle — the combination of hip elevation and leg position creates a direct path to the G-spot.
Use a rocking, upward-thrusting motion — the angle means the shaft presses against the anterior wall where the G-spot is located. Each thrust should feel like it's targeting a specific spot on the upper vaginal wall.
The receiving partner can hold their own legs on the shoulders for support, or the penetrating partner can hold the legs in place. The leg position is what maintains the angle — if the legs slip, the angle flattens.
The pillow under the hips is essential — without it, the legs-on-shoulders alone creates a moderate angle. The pillow adds the critical pelvic tilt that makes this a G-spot-targeting position rather than just a deep-penetration one.
Safety & Precautions
Warnings
- ! Communicate with your partner about comfort throughout.
- ! Can be tiring — take breaks as needed.
Modifications
- * Use pillows for support and comfort.
- * Adjust the angle or depth based on your partner's feedback.
Generally safe during pregnancy — adjust depth and pace for comfort.
Medical References & Sources
The information on this page has been reviewed for accuracy by certified health professionals. The following peer-reviewed and authoritative sources were used in developing this guide:
- • Mayo Clinic — Sexual Health
- • American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) — Sexual Health
- • National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
- • Cleveland Clinic — Sexual Health
- • Healthline — Healthy Sex & Relationships
Health Disclaimer: Always consult a healthcare professional before trying new positions, especially if you have back pain, joint issues, are pregnant, or have any medical condition. Stop immediately if you experience pain.
Pros
- + Excellent G-spot angle with hip elevation
- + Deep penetration with the legs on shoulders
- + Comfortable and effective
Cons
- - Requires a pillow for proper elevation
- - Can be tiring for the receiving partner's legs
Tips
- * Adjust pillow height for the perfect angle
- * The receiving partner can hold their legs for support
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the right technique, small errors can reduce pleasure or increase injury risk. Here are the most common mistakes couples make with the American Pie position:
Not using the pillow under the hips
The pillow is what creates the pelvic tilt that targets the G-spot. Without it, the legs-on-shoulders position creates a deep penetration angle but misses the G-spot. The pillow is the difference between G-spot stimulation and just deep sex.
Legs slipping off the shoulders
If the receiving partner's legs aren't securely resting on the shoulders, they slip down during thrusting, flattening the angle. The receiving partner should actively press their calves against the shoulders, or the penetrating partner can hold the legs in place.
Thrusting at the wrong angle
The American Pie angle is upward, not horizontal. Thrusting straight forward misses the G-spot. The motion should have a slight upward trajectory, pressing the shaft against the upper vaginal wall with each thrust.
Legs getting tired from being held up
The receiving partner's legs on the shoulders can fatigue, especially if the session is long. If legs start to ache, the receiving partner can use their hands to support their own calves, or the penetrating partner can hold the legs to share the weight.
Variations to Try
Once you've mastered the basic American Pie, these variations can add new sensations and keep things exciting:
Add a Pillow
Place a pillow under the receiving partner's hips to change the angle of penetration and enhance stimulation.
Incorporate Manual Stimulation
Use hands to add clitoral or other external stimulation during the position for enhanced pleasure.
Slow Down the Pace
Switch from thrusting to grinding for a more intimate, sensation-focused experience.
Try Different Surfaces
Move from the bed to a couch, standing, or against a wall for different angles and experiences.
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Written by Dr. Sarah Mitchell
Certified Sex Therapist, PhD in Human Sexuality
Reviewed by Dr. James Chen
Board-Certified OB/GYN, 15+ Years Experience
Last reviewed: July 2026 | Content medically verified | Meet our full team
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