Sphinx Position: How to Do It + 3 Variations

In the Sphinx position, the receiving partner lies on their stomach, propped up on their forearms like the famous statue, while the giving partner lies on top of them or kneels over them and enters from behind. It's a rear-entry position with very little effort for the person underneath. It can be slow and close, and the arched back changes the angle of penetration. It works for vaginal or anal penetration, with a penis, a strap-on or a toy, and for any combination of genders.

How to Do the Sphinx Position

Receiver gets into position. Lie face down on the bed. Rest on your forearms with your elbows roughly under your shoulders, so your chest lifts a little. Keep your neck long and your gaze forward or slightly down.
Open the hips. Keep one leg straight. Slide the other knee out to the side and up toward your ribs, a bit like a frog leg. This tilts the pelvis and makes entry easier.
Giver gets into position. Lie along your partner's back, or hover over it, with your legs between or beside theirs. Support yourself on your hands or forearms placed outside their shoulders, so your weight stays off their lower back.
Enter slowly. Use plenty of lubricant, which you'll need for anal sex. Start shallow and let the receiver guide the depth by pushing back or easing forward.
Find a rhythm. Short, rocking or grinding movements usually feel better here than long strokes. You're close together, and there isn't much room to pull back.

3 Sphinx Position Variations

1. Low Sphinx

If resting on your forearms gets tiring, lower your chest onto the mattress and put a pillow or wedge under your hips. The angle stays similar, but your arms, shoulders and lower back get a break. This is often the most comfortable version for longer sessions.

2. Closed-Leg Sphinx

The receiver keeps both legs straight and close together instead of bending one knee. Many people find that this gives a snugger feel and shallower penetration. It's a good option if deep thrusting is uncomfortable. The giver may need to straddle the receiver's thighs to stay aligned.

3. Kneeling Sphinx

Instead of lying down, the giver kneels upright behind the receiver, straddling their thighs, and holds their hips or rests their hands on the bed. Almost no weight lands on the receiver, the giver has more control over pace, and the giver can see more.

Making It More Comfortable

Control the depth. Rear entry can reach deep. If anything feels sharp or achy, the giver should slow down and stay shallower. The receiver can also flatten their back a little, which often reduces depth.
Add external stimulation. The receiver can slide a hand or a small vibrator underneath. Many people with a vulva find penetration alone isn't enough to reach orgasm.
Protect the lower back and neck. The forearm prop arches the lower spine. Lower your chest or add a pillow under your belly if your back feels pinched, and don't crane your head up to look around.
Spare the giver's arms. If your wrists or shoulders tire, drop onto your forearms or switch to the kneeling variation.

When the Sphinx Isn't for You

Pregnancy: lying on the stomach usually becomes uncomfortable as the belly grows. Side-lying positions are generally easier later in pregnancy. If you have any questions about sex during pregnancy, ask your midwife or doctor.
Back or neck problems: if arching the spine causes pain, numbness or tingling, stop. The Low Sphinx may still work for you.
Shoulder, elbow or wrist injuries: skip the forearm prop and lie flat with a pillow under your hips.
Pain with deep penetration: choose a position where the receiver controls depth more directly. On top, as in Reverse Cowgirl, is one option, or try a face-up position with the legs up at a gentler angle.

Communication and Consent

The person underneath can't see their partner's face, so talk out loud. A quick "slower?" or "deeper or shallower?" works better than guessing. Agree on a simple signal before you start, such as a tap on the bed or a word, that means "pause" or "stop," and respect it right away. Either of you can change position or stop at any moment, whatever you agreed to earlier. Talk about protection beforehand too: condoms or other barriers lower the risk of STIs. If you switch from anal to vaginal penetration, use a fresh condom or wash the penis or toy first.

FAQ

Why is it called the Sphinx?

Because of the receiver's pose: lying on the stomach, chest raised on the forearms. It looks like the Great Sphinx of Giza.

Is the Sphinx good for beginners?

Yes. The receiver hardly needs to move, and the giver only needs to stay aligned and support their own weight. Start with the Low Sphinx if you're unsure.