Anal Training Guide: How to Prepare for Anal Sex

Anal training is the exercise of building your tolerance for anal penetration, typically with the use of fingers or sex toys. With practice, your anal sphincter muscles can learn to relax, allowing you to have safer, more enjoyable anal sex. Your anus and rectum are filled with sensitive nerve endings, which can make anal training a pleasurable activity on its own. No matter your gender identity and sexual orientation, anal training can be a fun way to explore new sensations. Anal training is generally safe. However, there are a few things to consider before beginning your training. - __Lubrication__: The anus cannot self-lubricate like the vagina. Practicing anal training without proper lubrication can result in a tear inside the anal canal, or an anal fissure. Consider water-based lubricants or silicone-based lubricants, and avoid desensitizing lubes with numbing agents. If you experience pain during anal training, stop the session immediately and take a break. - __Bacteria__: Your anus naturally contains bacteria that can spread during any form of anal play. Be careful where you put your hands and sex toys during anal training. If you touch other body parts, like your mouth or vagina, after anal play, you run the risk of infection. Always remember to clean yourself before and after an anal training session. - __Hemorrhoids__: While anal training is unlikely to cause hemorrhoids, it can irritate existing ones. If you experience abdominal pain or excessive bleeding after anal training, consult your doctor immediately. 1. __Maintain good hygiene practices__. Before an anal training session, use the bathroom and take a shower, washing your anus with warm water and mild soap. If you plan to use your hands, be sure to trim your fingernails, and consider using a glove. Keep a tissue box or towel close by for cleanup. 2. __Use plenty of lube__. Always keep [lubricant](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-use-lube) within arm’s reach while anal training. It’s important to use a generous amount of lube and reapply often. If you’re using a silicone toy, consider a water-based lubricant. Avoid oil-based lubricants if you plan to use a glove or condom, as oil-based lube breaks down the latex. Lubricate both the inside of your anus and your finger or sex toy. 3. __Set the mood__. Proper [foreplay](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/foreplay-guide) can help you become more receptive to penetration. When you’re turned on, your sphincter muscles relax, making it easier to enjoy anal stimulation. Practice deep breathing exercises. Light a candle and turn on some music. Consider [masturbating](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/benefits-of-masturbation) before anal training, relieving tension and relaxing your muscles for comfortable insertion. 4. __Start with your hands__. Once you’re comfortable and aroused, rest on your side with your knees up. After applying lube, reach behind your back and rub your pinky against your anus. Push gently inside and leave your finger there for a moment, allowing your body to get used to the sensation. If you still feel comfortable, slowly remove your pinky, reapply lube, and use a larger finger like your thumb. Patience is key, especially for beginners. To perform a prostate massage, lift your finger lightly against the upper side of your rectum two to four inches inside, rubbing towards the base of the penis in a “come hither” motion. 5. __Experiment with sex toys__. Anal toys are designed to stimulate the nerve endings in your anus. Anal sex toys include [butt plugs](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/butt-plugs-guide), anal beads, anal dildos, and [prostate massagers](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/prostate-massager-guide). Consider purchasing an anal training kit with anal plugs of varying sizes. These training kits are a useful tool, allowing you to work up to larger sex toys at your own pace. The important thing to look for when choosing an anal sex toy is a handle like a flared base or a loop, ensuring that the device won’t accidentally slip into your rectum. Anal sex toys are typically made from a non-porous material like silicone or stainless steel. They require lots of lube and regular cleaning with warm water and mild soap or sex toy cleaner. 6. __Consider bringing in a partner__. If you’d like to include your partner in your anal training, have an open conversation with them about how you want them to participate. Clear lines of communication are essential for anal training with your partner. Listen carefully, and remember that you can stop at any time. If you and your partner are on the same page, consider trying foreplay techniques and oral sex before beginning your session. Remember that participating in anal training does not mean that other types of anal sex are on the table. Each individual sex act requires consent. 7. __Be patient__. Anal training takes time. Even with regular sessions, you can keep using the same size toy for weeks before moving on to something larger. Make sure you’re fully comfortable with the insertion of a finger before moving on to anything bigger like anal plugs or a penis. Remember, that there’s no rush. Go slow and move at your own pace with every anal training session. As long as you take your time and connect to the sensations you feel in your body, anal training can be a sexy and enjoyable process. Craving a little more intimacy? Grab a [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com) and learn more about open <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication","linkCopy":"communication","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>communication with your partners, experimenting in the bedroom, and being your own best sexual advocate with a little help from Emily Morse (host of the wildly popular podcast *Sex With Emily*). Before trying anal sex, consider practicing anal training techniques.