The double decker sex position is a close, body-on-body position where one partner lies on their back with knees bent, and the other kneels between their legs and lowers down over them, chest to chest. It is not a standing position: the strength and balance both come from how the kneeling partner supports their own weight, not from anyone standing up. Couples who like deep, close contact, steady eye contact, and a slower, connected rhythm tend to enjoy it most, and it works well as a change of pace from more athletic positions.
How to Do the Double Decker Sex Position: Step by Step
Warm up first. A few minutes of foreplay helps both partners settle before moving into a position that takes a little coordination.
Get into position. One partner lies on their back with knees bent and feet flat on the bed, or resting lightly against the headboard or wall.
Kneel and lower down. The other partner kneels between their legs, facing them, and lowers down slowly into close body contact.
Settle your legs. The bottom partner can keep their feet flat or wrap their legs loosely around the kneeling partner, whichever keeps both of you comfortable and nobody's feet trapped.
Support your weight. The kneeling partner can transfer some weight onto one forearm or hand beside the other partner's shoulder, which frees up movement and takes pressure off the hips.
Find your rhythm. Move slowly at first, using slow rocking rather than fast thrusts, then adjust pace once you are both settled.
3 Double Decker Sex Position Variations to Try
Elevated double decker. The partner on the bottom rests their hips on a firm pillow, which raises the angle slightly and can make penetration feel deeper for both partners.
Reverse double decker. The partner who was on the bottom shifts to kneel over the other partner instead, which is an easy way to swap roles without leaving the position's close, body-on-body feel.
Wall-braced double decker. Instead of feet flat on the bed, the bottom partner rests their feet against a wall or headboard for a slightly different angle. This works best with a pillow under the neck and shoulders, since it puts a bit more curve into the lower back.
If you enjoy the close, weight-bearing feel of this position, the anvil position and the jockey position use a similar kind of body-on-body setup and are worth exploring too. Couples who like trying something new with angles may also enjoy the sideways position as another variation on close-contact sex.
Who the Double Decker Sex Position Suits and Who Should Be Careful
The double decker sex position tends to suit couples who like maintaining eye contact, want deep and close contact throughout, and do not mind a position that takes a little practice to get comfortable. It can also be a good pick for couples with a difference in body strength, since the kneeling partner sets most of the pace and the partner underneath can relax into it.
A few situations call for extra care. Wrist or shoulder strain can build up for the kneeling partner, so switching which arm bears weight, or resting on a forearm instead of a hand, helps a lot. If feet are propped against the headboard or a wall, that can put extra strain on the neck and lower back of the partner underneath, so a pillow under the head and shoulders and a shallower angle are worth trying first. Anyone with existing knee, hip, or lower back issues should start with the elevated variation and a supportive pillow rather than the more intense wall-braced version. If anything pinches, aches, or goes numb, that is your cue to shift position or take a break, not push through it.
Double Decker Sex Position Comfort and Safety Tips
A water-based lubricant makes this position more comfortable for most people. Reapply as needed rather than waiting until things feel dry.
Go slowly while you both get used to the coordination this position takes. If you want to bring in props or light bondage, wait until you are both steady and comfortable in the base position first, and agree beforehand on how you will pause if needed.
This position itself does not lower the risk of pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections, so barrier protection such as condoms still matters exactly as it would in any other position. If you are switching between anal and vaginal contact, use a fresh condom or barrier and wash up in between, since that switch is what raises infection risk, not the position itself.
Talking About It and Consent
A quick check-in before and during sex makes this position, or any position, better for everyone involved. A few phrases that work well:
"Want to try this position?"
"Is my weight okay, or should I shift?"
"Can we slow down for a second?"
"This feels really good, keep going."
Check in more than once, since a position that takes coordination can feel different once you settle into it. Agree on a simple word or a tap on the shoulder beforehand that means "pause," something easy to use without breaking the mood, so either partner can stop things at any point without it feeling like a big production.
Double Decker Sex Position FAQ
Is the double decker position comfortable?
It can be, once both partners get used to the coordination and weight distribution it takes. Most people find it more comfortable with a pillow under the hips or shoulders, and by taking a minute at the start to settle your legs and get the weight balanced properly.
What size or height differences work best for the double decker sex position?
This position tends to work for most height and body-size combinations, since the kneeling partner controls their own weight and angle rather than relying on a specific size match. Adjusting how far the bottom partner's knees are bent, or adding a pillow, makes it easier to line up regardless of height difference.
Do you need a lot of strength for the double decker sex position?
Not really. The kneeling partner does most of the work supporting their own weight, but resting on a forearm instead of a straight arm reduces the effort a lot. It is more about balance and coordination than raw strength.
Can beginners try the double decker sex position?
Yes, though it can take a try or two to feel natural since it involves more coordination than simpler positions. Starting with the elevated variation and a pillow for support makes it easier to learn.
Is the double decker sex position good during pregnancy?
It depends on comfort and how far along the pregnancy is, since it involves close body weight and pressure. Many people prefer gentler positions later in pregnancy, so check with your doctor about what is comfortable and appropriate for you.
