How to Master the Pretzel Dip Position: A Step-by-Step Guide

A 2020 UK poll revealed something interesting - the pretzel dip ranks as the country's 10th favorite sex position.

The pretzel dip gives you two amazing benefits at once. You get the deep penetration like doggy style plus the closeness of facing each other. This position lets partners lock eyes while enjoying raw passion. The pretzel position works great for couples, especially when you have height differences between partners.

On top of that, both partners can use their hands freely to touch each other during sex. This makes pleasure even more intense. The position works perfectly for deep thrusts, grinding, or even non-penetrative play. While it needs some flexibility, the intimate connection and pleasure make it worth trying.

Let us show you how to become skilled at this exciting position and enhance your bedroom adventures.

What is the Pretzel Dip Position?

The pretzel dip position is one of the most versatile and intimate ways couples can connect sexually. This position works with the receiving partner lying on their side and raising their top leg. The giving partner kneels between their thighs and straddles the bottom leg. This arrangement lets both partners' genitals line up naturally.

Your bodies twist together like a pretzel shape if you do it right - that's where it gets its name. This close embrace creates a special bond because you can look into each other's eyes throughout, making it feel good both physically and emotionally.

How it compares to other positions

The pretzel dip combines the best parts of several classic positions. Missionary gives great eye contact but limits how deep you can go. Doggy style lets you go deeper but you can't see each other's faces. The pretzel dip gives you both.

You get the deep sensations like in doggy style while staying connected through eye contact. This makes it much more intimate than positions from behind since you can see your partner's reactions during sex.

The pretzel dip works better than regular side-by-side positions too. The partner on top can move freely to adjust their angle and depth, unlike many spooning positions that restrict movement. Partners with different heights can enjoy this position easily, which solves a common issue with other positions.

People who get back pain from rear-entry positions will find the pretzel dip works great. The receiving partner can relax comfortably while enjoying deep penetration. This makes it available to people with certain physical limits.

Both partners have their hands free, unlike positions that need hands to stay up. This freedom lets you touch and explore in ways that standing or missionary positions don't allow. Sex educators point out that this combination of free hands and eye contact makes it more intimate than most other positions.

Why it's called the pretzel dip

The name comes from two things you can see. The "pretzel" part describes how your legs wrap around each other in twists, like the knots in a pretzel. Looking down, you'll see your limbs twisted like a real pretzel's loops.

"Dip" comes from how the penetrating partner dips toward their lover during sex. This dipping creates a rocking rhythm that many couples find pleasurable.

European monks created the first pretzels in the early Middle Ages. The three holes represented the Holy Trinity. While this position isn't religious, it borrows the idea of intertwining that pretzels show.

Some people call it "the camel ride", probably because the penetrating partner looks like they're riding the receiving partner's leg - the "camel." Most people know it as the "pretzel dip," though some just call it the "pretzel position".

This position has become really popular lately. It ranks as the most-searched sex position in 14 American states, including Louisiana, Minnesota, Kentucky, Nevada, Utah, and West Virginia. Sex therapist Nazanin Moali notes that many couples might try this position without knowing its name.

Now you know what the pretzel dip is and why people call it that. You're ready to try this intimate and rewarding position with your partner.

Preparing for the Pretzel Dip

The pretzel dip position works best when you prepare well before the intimate moment. Good preparation will give a comfortable and pleasurable experience that makes this twisted position available even to beginners. The path to success starts with getting physically ready, creating the right environment, and making sure you communicate clearly with your partner.

Stretching and flexibility tips

You'll need moderate flexibility in your hips and spine for the pretzel dip. Here's how to prepare your body:

1. Start with simple spine rotation exercises to loosen your back. The pretzel stretch works on rotation through your entire spine and helps reduce tension in your upper back.

2. Your hip mobility matters because the receiving partner's top leg stays in a raised position. The pretzel stretch also works the gluteus medius, which helps if you're on your feet a lot.

3. Start with the beginner version of the pretzel pose. This easier variation lets you work toward the full position without straining your muscles.

4. Make stretching part of your daily routine. Limited mobility in your thoracic spine can lead to pain in other parts of your body.

If you have tight hip flexors, try this: sit down, place your right foot near your left knee, and gently twist your torso to the right. Hold for 20-30 seconds before switching sides. Don't worry if your leg won't extend from your hip at a 90-degree angle - regular practice will improve your range of motion.

Setting the mood and space

The right environment improves the pretzel dip experience beyond just physical preparation:

Your choice of surface makes a big difference. While most people use a bed, some couples find firmer surfaces give better support. You might want to try a couch or even a carpeted floor for extra stability.

Pillow placement is significant for comfort. The receiving partner usually needs pillows behind their head and back for support. Pillows under the hip can reduce pressure and help you hold the position longer.

Make sure you have enough room for both partners to move freely before you start. The penetrating partner needs space to kneel comfortably while straddling their partner's bottom leg.

The receiving partner can use their top arm to stay stable by putting it in front or behind them.

Communication with your partner

The pretzel dip position creates opportunities for honest conversation during intimacy. Clear communication helps both partners enjoy themselves:

Talk about the position beforehand if it's new to either of you. The partner on top (the penetrating partner) does more work while the partner on bottom needs less athletic ability.

Keep talking about what feels comfortable and pleasurable throughout. Ask your partner if they're enjoying what you're doing and adjust to find what works best for both of you.

Many couples find different sensations when they try the position from both sides. Some people feel more intense pleasure on one side, so it's worth experimenting.

The pretzel position is actually one of the most supportive positions you can try, despite its complex name. Be ready to modify if either partner feels uncomfortable. The receiving partner should adjust their posture until they find their sweet spot.

Note that trying this position brings you closer to your partner. The pretzel dip creates an intimate connection where you're literally intertwined, letting you sync your breathing and connect deeply.

The sort of thing I love about great sex is how it combines communication, consent, and creativity. When partners feel heard and respected, the physical pleasures of the pretzel dip become even more satisfying.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Into Position

The pretzel dip position needs both partners to coordinate their movements carefully. After you've set up your space and talked with your partner, you can start getting into position. Here's how to achieve this intimate setup that maximizes comfort and pleasure.

Positioning the receiving partner

The receiving partner starts the sequence:

1. Lie on your side - choose either right or left, whatever feels natural.

2. Your bottom leg should stay straight and extended on the surface. This leg creates the base for the position.

3. Your top knee should bend slightly so your partner can move between your legs.

4. Rest your head on a pillow and prop yourself up on your elbow if you want better stability and a view of your partner.

5. Your top arm can go in front or behind you to help you stay balanced during the action.

You might want to rest your head on your arm or lean back against some pillows - whatever works best for your body. Let your upper body tilt slightly upward so you can maintain eye contact.

How the penetrating partner lines up

The penetrating partner takes their position once the receiving partner settles in:

1. Face your partner and kneel between their legs.

2. Stay on your knees and straddle their extended bottom leg.

3. Lift their top leg that's already bent at the knee.

4. Wrap their raised leg around your waist to create that "pretzel" shape.

5. Move in closer until your genitals line up for penetration.

The penetrating partner should keep holding their partner's bent leg. This grip helps keep everyone stable and lets you control how deep you go.

Adjusting for comfort and access

A few tweaks can make everything feel better once you're in position:

The receiving partner can pull their knees closer to their chest to change how penetration feels. This small change often makes things more comfortable for both people.

You can try different ways to wrap the raised leg. The receiving partner might want to hook their top leg around their partner's body. This limits thrusting but creates an intimate rocking motion. People who prefer grinding over thrusting often love this variation.

The penetrating partner can lean forward onto their hands for support. This slight change in position hits different pleasure spots and helps during more energetic movements.

Want deeper penetration? The penetrating partner can gently pull their partner closer with each thrust by holding their arm. The receiving partner can also try different arm positions - either supporting themselves or adding extra stimulation.

The pretzel dip should feel stable and comfortable. Make changes right away if something doesn't feel right. Try different angles, straighten your leg, or put pillows under your hip. A fluffy comforter or extra padding around your bodies can add comfort everywhere.

Both partners should keep talking about what feels good and adjust until you find the perfect position for your bodies.

Enhancing the Experience

The pretzel dip position opens up a world of possibilities once both partners find their sweet spot. This unique configuration creates natural opportunities to boost pleasure through different techniques. The position's geometry gives you advantages that other intimate arrangements can't match.

Using hands and toys

The pretzel dip lets both partners keep their hands free to explore - something that sets it apart from positions where you need your arms or hands to support yourself. This freedom opens up a world of possibilities.

The penetrating partner can:

• Touch their partner's breasts or stimulate their clitoris during penetration
• Pull their partner's top leg toward their chest to deepen access
• Let their hands wander with gentle or more intense touches

The receiving partner stays active and engaged. Their hands are free to:

• Please themselves with fingers or toys
• Create an arousing display by touching their chest/breasts during penetration
• Explore their partner's body, play with their nipples, or tug their hair

Toys can take the experience to new heights. The angles in this position work perfectly with clitoral vibrators without getting in the way of penetration. Many people find it easier to reach climax when they combine penetration with this kind of dual stimulation.

The right toy makes everything better, especially when your partner's thigh rubs against the clitoris. This creates extra sensations while still letting you use your fingers.

Eye contact and dirty talk

Beyond physical pleasure, the pretzel dip creates deep emotional connections. You can look into each other's eyes throughout the whole experience. This visual bond creates an intensity you won't find in many other positions, letting you see your partner's pleasure unfold.

Sex educators point out that eye contact often leads to other intimate play. Many couples say they love maintaining eye contact while talking dirty. This mix of verbal and visual connection creates a multi-layered experience.

The position naturally creates subtle power dynamics. The penetrating partner sits up and straddles their lover, creating a gentle dominant/submissive dynamic that dirty talk can amplify. You can build anticipation by telling your partner what comes next.

Even without power play, good communication helps both partners find what feels best. A simple "does this feel good?" followed by adjustments can transform the experience.

Adding pillows for support

Comfort matters most when it comes to lasting pleasure. The pretzel dip becomes surprisingly comfortable with proper support, despite its complex arrangement.

Specialized sex pillows work better than regular pillows. The receiving partner needs support behind their head and back. Extra pillows under the hip make a big difference in comfort and staying power.

People with hip discomfort might find relief by straightening their leg slightly or changing surfaces. Some couples prefer a couch or floor over a mattress since too much bounce can hurt, especially with hip issues.

Sex pillows designed specifically for intimate positions help you discover new angles in the pretzel dip. These supports handle the leg positions while keeping both partners comfortable throughout.

Variations to Try

The classic pretzel dip can lead to new sensations and viewpoints once you feel comfortable with it. These adaptations are a great way to get different benefits based on your priorities and physical comfort.

Standing pretzel dip

The standing variation adds excitement and intensity to the traditional pretzel dip position. Here's how you can try it:

1. The penetrating partner stands at the edge of a bed, table, or couch
2. The receiving partner lies sideways with their hips at the edge
3. The penetrating partner lifts the receiver's top leg and moves as in the standard position

Different pressure points and angles emerge from this elevated position that can boost stimulation. Many couples find that using different furniture pieces creates unique sensations because each surface has its own height and firmness.

Kneeling variation

You can keep the close connection of the original position while changing angles with the kneeling pretzel dip:

1. The receiving partner starts in a standard doggy style position with slightly raised hips (a pillow under the stomach helps with support)
2. The penetrating partner enters from behind and leans forward instead of staying upright
3. The receiving partner can wrap their legs around or over the penetrating partner's leg while keeping their knees down for stability

This version emphasizes closeness while allowing deep access. The penetrating partner can better control the rhythm and depth in this setup. Both partners should stay close together to maintain the pretzel's signature intimacy despite the position change.

Grinding-only version

Intimate moments don't always need penetration. The pretzel dip works great for non-penetrative pleasure through grinding:

1. Both partners lie on their backs facing each other
2. Each extends their legs and places one on top of the other
3. Partners create friction through synchronized movements

Partners with vulvas find this adaptation especially effective since it lines up perfectly for clitoral stimulation through grinding. The sensation differs completely from penetration, which many people enjoy. A sex educator points out, "If you're rubbing genitals, it feels [differently] than penetration."

This version works well if penetration causes discomfort or if you prefer external stimulation. The receiving partner might enjoy focusing on circular hip movements instead of back-and-forth motions to maximize clitoral contact throughout.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

The pretzel dip position offers great benefits but you need to watch out for some common pitfalls. You'll have a much better time if you know about these challenges upfront. Let's get into the most common mistakes and how to fix them.

Incorrect leg placement

The right leg positions are the foundations of a good pretzel dip. The bottom partner needs to keep their lower leg straight while their top leg stays within their partner's frame. Many couples put the raised leg too far out, which makes everything wobbly.

The penetrating partner should stay slightly behind the receiver—not right in front—with the receiver on their inside right side. This gives you the right angle without straining. The connection might feel odd if the receiving partner isn't inside the leader's frame but off to the side.

Your upper body should stay steady during the pretzel dip. Keep clear tension in your connected arm to avoid what instructors call "spaghetti arms"—loose limbs that make everything unstable.

Lack of support or balance

Balance problems usually happen when couples try the pretzel dip without getting stable first. The person on the bottom might feel unsteady with their raised leg. They can use their top arm to stay steady by putting it in front or behind them.

The surface you choose really affects how stable you are. Your mattress might be too soft, so try moving to a couch or floor that gives you a firmer base. Pillows make a huge difference—put them under the receiving partner's hip and you'll notice better comfort and stability right away.

Forcing the position without comfort

You should never feel pain in the pretzel dip. Many couples try to push through discomfort, which can lead to injury. Talk to your partner and adjust things if any position feels uncomfortable or puts stress on your body.

Some people find the pretzel especially tough. Hip pain can make it hard to lie on your side or keep your leg up. You can lower the top leg a bit to feel more comfortable. The penetrating partner does most of the work, so if you have back pain, you might want to try other positions first.

If something feels tight, try straightening your leg or changing your angle. The position might work better on one side than the other—lots of people feel more pleasure on a particular side.

Conclusion

Final Thoughts on Mastering the Pretzel Dip

The pretzel dip position needs patience, practice, and clear communication between partners. This unique position combines the deeper penetration of doggy style with the intimate eye contact of face-to-face positions, creating a special experience. On top of that, it gives both partners' hands freedom for improved stimulation that other positions can't match.

Good preparation makes all the difference. You should stretch beforehand, create a comfortable environment with proper support, and keep an open dialog with your partner to substantially improve your experience. Setting up properly will boost your pleasure and comfort.

The step-by-step positioning technique might seem complex at first, but practice helps you find your perfect fit. The variations we described give you options for different priorities and physical capabilities. All couples can find a version that works for their unique needs.

The pretzel dip stands out as one of the most rewarding positions couples can try, despite its complexity. This exceptional combination of deep penetration, intimate connection, and versatility makes it worth learning. You can turn potential risks into opportunities for greater connection by trying different adjustments, talking openly, and using supportive elements like pillows.

A spirit of playful exploration works better than rigid expectations with this position. The trip to find what works best for you and your partner can be just as satisfying as reaching the goal. You'll build not just physical intimacy but deeper trust and communication skills that help your relationship beyond the bedroom.