Bow & Arrow Sex Position

{{AUTHOR}}

It’s easy to see how some sex positions get their name, like Cowgirl, for example. With the Bow and Arrow, it’s a little harder unless you understand that the woman’s arm reaching down from above is like the arrow when it’s nocked and ready to fire. No matter what you call it, however, this sex position might just hit the bullseye for you!

The Bow and Arrow, which is sometimes known as the Cupid’s Arrow position, starts with the penetrating partner on the bottom with their legs spread. The receiving partner then gets between their partner’s knees. Instead of lying on your partner, you’ll support yourself with your hands flat on the bed to either side of their upper body.

What The Receiver Does In The Bow and Arrow Position

In Bow and Arrow, the receiving partner will be on top like in the demonstration above. Their main job is to get into a position that allows for penetration. You may have to change the angle of your knees and legs to achieve this.

It may be difficult to move your hips much when doing the Bow and Arrow. In that case, let your partner do the thrusting.

What The Penetrating Partner Does In The Bow and Arrow Sex Position

As the penetrating partner, you can thrust your hips up from beneath your partner when doing the Bow and Arrow. Placing your feet flat on the bed can help with leverage. Get tips for thrusting.

You can also use your hands to grab your partner’s butt, hips or waist, depending on your bodies. Or you can stroke her face or caress her breasts and nipples. If your partner can lean forward enough, you might even be able to suck her nipples. Bow and Arrow is also a great position for hair pulling, just make sure you have their enthusiastic consent first.

How To Enhance The Bow and Arrow Position

There are a few ways you can adapt the Bow and Arrow to make it work (better) for you.

Pillow Positioning – Placing a pillow beneath the penetrating partner’s butt or hips can lift them up to make penetration easier in the Bow and Arrow. A dense memory foam pillow will hold its shape better than a feather pillow.

Go deeper: 9 Sex Wedge & Pillow Positions (+ Demonstrations).

Thigh sex – Penetration can be difficult in the Bow and Arrow, especially if dealing with big tummies (12 positions for bigger people) or a small penis. If you’re struggling, it might be time to think outside the box. This sex position can still feel good for thigh sex–where the penetrating partner slips their penis between your thighs–especially with a healthy dose of lube!

Learn more about choosing the best lube for your needs.

Rise and Grind – Because of how your bodies come together in the Cupid’s Arrow sex position, you might find it ideal for clitoral stimulation through grinding. You can also try placing a vibrator between your bodies or using a vibrating cock ring to up the ante!

Variations of the Bow and Arrow & Similar Positions

Switch things up with these variations of the Bow and Arrow. Or try a similar position for better sex!

Coital Alignment

While the Coital Alignment Technique or CAT might not seem very similar to the Bow and Arrow, both have the potential to offer clitoral stimulation because of how your bodies come together. Coital Alignment might be easier for some people, however.

Man Missionary

Another sex position that might be less tricky than Bow and Arrow is Man Missionary. You’ll have more freedom to move your hips with your legs outside your partner’s. Plus, you can lean down for more intimacy and to kiss. This is an ideal position for love making!

Cowgirl

Cowgirl position is the standard woman-on-top sex position that works well for both partners if Bow and Arrow doesn’t. You can control the angle, depth, and speed while your partner gets to look at your breasts. Plus, there are ways to stimulate your clitoris during Cowgirl, including with hands or toys.

Jockey

Finally, we have the Jockey, a sex position that doesn’t seem to share a lot with Bow and Arrow. However, if you like being on your stomach, Jockey might be a better alternative.

Sean’s Thoughts On The Bow and Arrow Sex Position

The Bow and Arrow position is different enough from Cowgirl and other woman-on-top sex positions while remaining easy enough for many people to do. That makes it worth trying at least once to see if it works for you! But if you find the Bow and Arrow position doesn’t work for your bodies, that’s okay. There are plenty of other sex positions to try.

March 27, 2025