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Sex Positions 101: The Helicopter

Medically reviewed by Janie-Vi Villamor Ismael-Gorospe, MD · General Practitioner


Written by Tracey Romero · Updated Jan 29

    Sex Positions 101: The Helicopter

    Couples and casual partners try various sex positions to spruce things up in the bedroom. Or to discover what works best for them. As exciting as this sounds, it’s still best to err on the side of caution. Take the necessary measures to keep both partners safe. Read on to learn more about the different positions, such as the helicopter sex position.

    Safety First: What To Do Before Trying Out New Positions

    Good sex is just like a recipe for dishes; many ingredients are needed to make it work for everyone. Before diving right into different sex positions, it’s best to understand the risks involved. This is to ensure that both individuals involved are fully aware of what’s going to take place.

    Here are a few essential pointers to take note of before engaging in sex and trying out new things in the bedroom:

    Talk it out

    You’re excited about trying out the helicopter sex position, but does your partner feel the same way? Communication is one of the most critical components to making a relationship work, and this applies to sex too. Before incorporating new things into the usual sexual activities, it’s always best to ensure that your partner is comfortable with it. 

    Contraception is key

    Using condoms and other types of birth control is advisable for partners who are not planning to have a baby any time soon. In addition, contraception also helps prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases between unknowing partners. Sex is more fun when it’s safe and risk-free.

    Respect boundaries

    If a partner expresses that they’re in pain or feel uncomfortable while trying a new sex position, stop immediately. Providing feedback and taking note of your partner’s non-verbal cues are imperative to making sex safe. Assigning a safe word that can indicate that sex needs to stop is a must for sexual partners who are becoming more adventurous in bed.

    Make it comfortable

    Using lubricants is one way to avoid uncomfortable situations during sex. When trying out new positions, always make sure to apply ample amounts of lubricant to reduce friction and prevent any unwanted tears or bruises. 

    Helicopter Sex Position: The Variations

    The helicopter sex position, also known as the “bumper cars position,” earned its name because it makes partners resemble a helicopter while having sex. Due to its complicated setup, several variations have been formulated that may accommodate different body types.

    Classic Helicopter

    To pull off the classic helicopter sex position, start by having the receiving partner or the bottom on their knees and elbows with their bottom in the air. Next, the insertive partner or the top inserts their penis into the bottom while doing a plank. The top’s legs should be over the bottom’s legs, and both partners’ heads should be opposite from each other. 

    Depending on the heights of both individuals, the top may have to hover their legs mid-air or place them on top of a couch or chair for support.

    Grounded Helicopter

    This variation of the helicopter sex position is more manageable and doesn’t require so much upper body strength. To start, the bottom must lay on their stomach with their rear end slightly raised. Using a pillow or a positioning wedge will significantly make this easier for the bottom.

    Next, the top lays on top of the bottom and inserts their penis downwards. The placement of the legs and heads are the same as they were in the classic helicopter sex position, but this time, the top does not need to keep their legs raised.

    Key Takeaways

    Each body is unique and built differently, which is why the helicopter sex position may not be the best choice for you and your partner. This position typically works best for anal sex or for partners who use dildos/strap-ons, given the odd angle that the penis has to be inserted in.
    Nevertheless, approaching the topic of sex with a positive and open-minded attitude is imperative for both casual and committed partners alike. 

    Learn other Sex Tips here

    Disclaimer

    Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

    Medically reviewed by

    Janie-Vi Villamor Ismael-Gorospe, MD

    General Practitioner


    Written by Tracey Romero · Updated Jan 29

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