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#20 Classic Easy

Legs on Shoulders

A modified missionary with legs raised for deeper angles.

Medically Reviewed by Dr. James Chen, Board-Certified OB/GYN
Legs on Shoulders sex position illustration - A modified missionary with legs raised for deeper angles.
Penetration: Deep
Stimulation: G-spot

About This Position

The receiving partner lies on their back with legs raised and resting on the penetrating partner's shoulders. This modified missionary allows for deeper penetration and changes the angle of stimulation.

Best For

Deep penetrationG-spot stimulationSimplicity

Clitoral Stimulation

Limited direct clitoral stimulation from the position itself.

Hands can be used for clitoral stimulation during penetration.

G-Spot Stimulation

Excellent G-spot stimulation from the tilted angle created by legs on shoulders.

The angle specifically targets the anterior wall and G-spot.

Anatomy & Physiology

Muscle Groups Involved

  • Hamstrings
  • Hip flexors
  • Core
  • Lower back

Angle of Penetration

Upward angle, deeper than standard missionary

Targeted Pleasure Zones

G-spotAnterior wallDeep spotCervix

Body Contact Points

Legs on shouldersChest to thighsHands holding legsFace to face

Step-by-Step Guide

1

The receiving partner lies on their back on a comfortable surface. Lift your legs and rest them on the penetrating partner's shoulders — the hamstrings and hip flexors hold the legs in place.

Tip: The legs-up position tilts the pelvis upward, creating an angle that targets the anterior wall (G-spot rated 5/5).

2

The penetrating partner kneels or stands between the receiving partner's legs. The legs-on-shoulders body contact point creates the base of the position.

Tip: The penetrating partner's shoulders support the receiving partner's calves or ankles — adjust for comfort.

3

Slowly enter while maintaining eye contact. The upward angle means even moderate depth creates strong G-spot stimulation.

Tip: Start with shallow thrusts — the angle naturally targets sensitive areas that can be overwhelming.

4

Start with gentle thrusts and increase depth based on the receiving partner's comfort. The penetrating partner's core and hip flexors control the movement.

Tip: The receiving partner can hold their own legs for support if the penetrating partner's shoulders become uncomfortable.

5

Use a pillow under the receiving partner's hips to optimize the angle. The pillow elevates the pelvis and increases the upward angle of penetration.

Tip: The deeper angle reaches the anterior wall, deep spot, and can stimulate the cervix if desired.

6

The receiving partner can adjust leg position — wider legs create a different angle; pressing legs together increases friction and tightness.

Tip: Medium flexibility is required — the hamstrings need to be flexible enough to hold the legs elevated on shoulders.

7

Maintain eye contact for intimacy despite the deep penetration. The face-to-face orientation keeps the emotional connection strong.

Tip: Hands are free for both partners — use them for clitoral stimulation, caressing, or holding hips.

Safety & Precautions

Warnings

  • ! Requires some flexibility from the receiving partner.
  • ! Can be tiring to hold legs up for extended periods.

Modifications

  • * The receiving partner can hold their own legs to reduce strain.
  • * Use a pillow under the hips for better angle and comfort.
Flexibility: Medium Joint Stress: Moderate

Not recommended during pregnancy — legs elevated on shoulders creates pressure.

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:

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

  • + Deeper penetration than standard missionary
  • + Excellent G-spot angle
  • + Easy to get into

Cons

  • - Requires some flexibility from the receiving partner
  • - Can be tiring to hold legs up

Tips

  • * Use pillows to support the receiving partner's hips
  • * 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 Legs on Shoulders position:

Going too deep too fast

The legs-up angle creates a direct path to deep spots and the cervix. Starting with full depth can cause pain. Start shallow and let the receiving partner guide the progression.

Not using a pillow under the hips

Without hip elevation, the angle may not reach the G-spot optimally. A pillow under the hips increases the upward angle and improves internal stimulation.

Legs becoming fatigued

Holding legs up on shoulders requires hamstring flexibility and endurance. If the receiving partner's legs tire, they should hold their own legs or rest them against a headboard.

Losing the face-to-face connection

Unlike doggy-style, this position maintains eye contact. Couples who look away miss the intimacy that differentiates this from other deep-penetration positions.

Variations to Try

Once you've mastered the basic Legs on Shoulders, these variations can add new sensations and keep things exciting:

1

Add a Pillow

Place a pillow under the receiving partner's hips to change the angle of penetration and enhance stimulation.

2

Incorporate Manual Stimulation

Use hands to add clitoral or other external stimulation during the position for enhanced pleasure.

3

Slow Down the Pace

Switch from thrusting to grinding for a more intimate, sensation-focused experience.

4

Try Different Surfaces

Move from the bed to a couch, standing, or against a wall for different angles and experiences.

Share this position

SM

Written by Dr. Sarah Mitchell

Certified Sex Therapist, PhD in Human Sexuality

JC

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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