The average couple alternate between two or three positions, usually a combination of missionary and rear entry. Brush up your technique, and discover the best positions for men and women. And remember, however you do it, do it with passion!

Top positions for men
For most men, orgasm is guaranteed whatever the position. But it's always good to add some variety to the usual bump and grind.

Rear entry
Generally speaking, men tend to enjoy positions that give them a good view or deep penetration. Rear entry or the position more commonly known as 'doggy style' satisfies both criteria. The woman gets on her hands and knees or lies on her front. The man kneels behind her, grasps her hips and penetrates her.

Some men prefer to put their legs between their partner's thighs whilst others keep them outside her legs. If the woman keeps her thighs together, her vagina will be tighter.

This position gives the man a lot of freedom to explore. He can cup his partner's breasts and play with her nipples as he thrusts. He can also play with her clitoris - or she can play with herself. To heighten the visual appeal, the woman can pull her buttocks apart while he thrusts so that he can see all her most intimate parts.

Missionary with raised legs
Another position that's great for deep penetration is missionary - with a twist. The woman raises her legs and places them over her partner's shoulders. The further back her legs are, the deeper the penetration will be as it lengthens the vagina. Many men enjoy seeing their partner's face when they make love too.

Missionary with a twist
If the man is particularly large, he should move slowly until he's certain that his partner is comfortable. To get right up to the hilt, the woman should start by lying on her back at the edge of the bed. She then spreads her legs, putting one on the floor. The man lies on top of her with one leg on the floor and the other kneeling on the bed. This gives maximum thrust.

Reverse cowgirl
The reverse cowgirl gives 'bum men' a visual treat. It takes a bit of practise to make sure you get the angle right but it's worth it. The woman sits astride the man and faces his feet, to straddle him 'backwards'. She then puts her hands on his knees or on either side of him for leverage. He gets a great view of her buttocks and she gets great G-spot stimulation. The woman should move slowly in this position so that the penis doesn't bend back too far.

Top positions for women

For women, orgasm potential is the ultimate consideration of what makes a great position, but vary sex by taking it in turns and changing positions

Woman on top
This position puts the woman in control. The man lies on his back while the woman rides him. She can then set the speed and depth of penetration. Obviously, the man's movement is tempered in this position. In fact, some women like this element and add to it by pinning their partner's arms to the bed whilst they make love to them.

One of the best things about this position is the amount of clitoral stimulation it provides. The more the woman leans forward, the better the friction. Some women may wish to use lube to make it more comfortable. Lying absolutely flat on top of the man will give the maximum clitoral stimulation. Move slowly for the most sensual sensation. Alternatively, try facing away from him for better G-spot stimulation.

Missionary
Even though it has a reputation for being 'unimaginative', the missionary position has a lot going for it. Many women particularly enjoy the basic missionary position, with the man on top and the woman underneath, because allows a lot of intimacy. You can see your partners' face, kiss, hug and caress each other. The full body contact felt in the missionary position means that the body's largest sexual organ - the skin - is stimulated. Oil (being careful to keep it well away from the condom) or lube on your skin in this position will heighten sensitivity.

Spooning
Many women also love 'spooning' because of the intimacy it offers. Both of you lie on your sides facing in the same direction with the man behind the woman. The man slides in and both partners gently rock to orgasm. The woman can play with her clitoris or guide the man's hand to wherever she'd like to be touched.

Copyright: 2004 Lifetime Productions International Ltd.