Praying Mantis
A grasping, mantis-like position with arms restrained.
About This Position
The penetrating partner holds the receiving partner's arms like a praying mantis while entering from above. This position creates a feeling of being captured and adds a dominant dynamic to the experience.
Best For
Step-by-Step Guide
The receiving partner lies on their back on a comfortable surface. The penetrating partner holds the receiving partner's arms in a mantis-like grasp above their head.
Tip: Establish a safe word first — this is a restraint position that creates vulnerability.
The penetrating partner positions themselves between the receiving partner's legs while maintaining the arm hold. The full body is open and exposed.
Tip: The hold should be firm but gentle — never restrict circulation or cause pain.
Enter from above while maintaining the gentle arm restraint. The deep spot, G-spot, and cervix are all targeted from the straight-on angle.
Tip: The hands restrained above the head body contact point creates the submission dynamic.
Keep the arm hold comfortable throughout. The mantis-like grasp is psychological as much as physical — the feeling of being captured increases arousal.
Tip: Check that the receiving partner can move their fingers to ensure circulation is maintained.
The penetrating partner controls the depth and pace. The receiving partner focuses on the vulnerability and surrender of the restrained position.
Tip: The penetrating partner's free hand can stimulate the clitoris (rated 3/5) during penetration.
Communicate constantly about comfort levels. The arm restraint can become uncomfortable if held too long or too tightly.
Tip: Release the hold periodically to let blood flow return to the arms.
Exit the position slowly — release the arms gently and allow the receiving partner to move their shoulders and restore circulation.
Tip: This is a Hard difficulty position — trust and communication are essential.
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
- + Creates a dominant/submissive dynamic
- + Very deep penetration
- + Increases vulnerability and arousal
Cons
- - Requires trust and communication
- - Can be uncomfortable for the arms
Tips
- * Be gentle with the arm restraint
- * Communicate about comfort levels throughout
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 Praying Mantis position:
Holding arms too tightly
The mantis-like arm hold should be firm enough to feel restraining but never painful. Holding too tightly can cause nerve compression or circulation loss. Always check finger movement.
Not establishing a safe word
Any restraint position requires a safe word. Without one, the receiving partner may feel genuinely trapped rather than playfully restrained.
Ignoring arm comfort
Arms held above the head for extended periods cause shoulder fatigue and numbness. Take breaks from the hold and check in about arm comfort regularly.
Focusing only on restraint
The restraint creates vulnerability, but the position also offers deep penetration. Couples who focus only on holding the arms miss the physical stimulation opportunities.
Variations to Try
Once you've mastered the basic Praying Mantis, 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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