Ultimate guide to sex positions: Wheelbarrow

Let’s talk about sex…positions.

Whether you’re just starting out with a new partner or looking to heat things up in a longterm committed relationship, this guide is for you. 

Next up, we have the wily Wheelbarrow.

Wheelbarrow:

The Wheelbarrow AKA the Standing Wheelbarrow is a sex position that allows for deep penetrative sex from behind—whether vaginal or anal. TBH, this position can be a little challenging, as it requires the thrusting partner to hold the receiving partner up by their legs. Meanwhile the receiving partner has to use their arm strength to hold themselves up at the same time.

At a glance, the Wheelbarrow may look like one of those make-believe positions no one is actually doing in the privacy of their own homes, but it is real, and it’s not necessarily as complicated as it looks. While, for some, this position is more of a test of strength than an enjoyable position, the adventurous among us know that you really can’t knock a thing until you try it. Ya heard it here first.

A note on terms:

When discussing penetration, we use the terms “thrusting partner” for the person with the penis (biological or synthetic), and “receiving partner” for the person accepting the act of penetration (vaginal or anal).

It is important to note that being a receiver is not a passive, subservient role. It is an active, enthusiastic role. There is power in choice, and by choosing to invite their partner inside them, the receiver is exercising that power.

Furthermore, the thrusting partner is not just a giver. Of course, they also receive pleasure during the act. But for the sake of clarity and consistency, we have selected these terms for the two sides of the dynamic.

How to do it:

To get into Wheelbarrow position, the receiving partner starts on the floor and uses their hands to balance in a plank-like position (yoga, anyone?). Then the thrusting partner lifts the receiving partner’s legs off the ground and holds them at the level of their own waist. The shape resembles that of a wheelbarrow, dontcha know?

The giving partner then penetrates the receiving partner either vaginally or anally with a penis or a dildo, as dictated by the anatomy and preferences of both partners. Truth talk: this move does require some dexterity and core strength. But even though it may seem tough at first, it’s pretty simple—and practice makes perfect. 

Reasons we love it:

- It allows for extra deep penetration, which can feel divine for both partners. As well, the angle of penetration can facilitate G-spot and A-Spot orgasms if the receiving partner has a vagina.

- Same-sex couples can accomplish this position with the use of dildos, strap-ons, and/or a willingness to explore anal.

- For partners using the Wheelbarrow position for anal sex with a receiving partner who has a prostate, this angle can offer the potential for intense prostate orgasms via the P-spot.

- Just because deep penetration is possible doesn’t mean it’s obligatory. The receiving partner can communicate what they need and the thrusting partner can fulfill their requests. Communication is hawt and intimate AF.

- It’s a great arm and shoulder workout, if you’re into that kind of thing—y’know, sexercise.

- A receiving partner with a clitoris can easily enjoy some added fingering—if the thrusting partner is comfortable supporting them with one hand while reaching down with fingers or a vibrator.

- It gives the thrusting partner a great view of the receiving partner’s delectable, um, assets.

Variations to try out:

The Wheelbarrow is all about upper body strength and endurance. While it is what some may call an “intermediate” position, it can be creatively modified to be easier—or more challenging. 

Kneeling Wheelbarrow

The Kneeling Wheelbarrow allows for more support and keeps you both lower to the ground while getting into position. The thrusting partner kneels rather than standing (use pillows to pad the knees), while the receiving partner uses their hands to push themselves up—but there is much less pressure on the receiver’s arms in this position. This is a great variation to start with before progressing to Standing Wheelbarrow.

Seated Wheelbarrow

For some, Seated Wheelbarrow is even more physically accessible. You might start on the bed or a chair, in reverse cowgirl, and together move toward the edge, so the receiving partner can gradually work their torso down, finding the floor with their hands for balance and support. Here you get the benefit of deep penetration, but it’s less strenuous, so you can do it for longer.

Supine Wheelbarrow

This variation takes the Wheelbarrow concept to a nice, horizontal state of mind. The receiving partner lays stomach down and extends their legs behind them, dangling off the bed. The thrusting partner then stands between the receiving partner’s legs and lifts them into position. This variation still gives you the deep penetration—as well as a similar angle to Standing Wheelbarrow—without the exhaustion or discomfort that comes from thrusting while in plank.

The Wanton Wheelbarrow

The Wanton Wheelbarrow is the same as the Wheelbarrow except it’s more of a challenge: one of the receiving partner’s legs is raised in the air, by the thrusting partner’s shoulder. This position requires flexibility and agility to do safely. The trick here is always being mindful of how it feels, and not pushing it too far. This sex position should never feel painful—honest communication is everything. 

Other tips & tricks:

- The thrusting partner can lean forward slightly and put their hands under the receiving partner's waist to offer extra support, so the receiving partner doesn’t have to use too much effort to hold themselves up with their arms.

- The thrusting partner may want to try getting into the groove of a more ‘up and down’ motion rather than a backward and forward one, as this will allow for more stability in the position, and make it easier for the receiving partner to keep balance.

- Having pillows, cushions, or a thick mat on the ground is never a bad idea, as there is the risk of the receiving partner falling and hitting their face or upper body.

- Communicate, communicate, communicate! About best angles, about speed, about sensation, about the need to take a break or try something new. That’s what it’s all about, baby.