What impact play is
Impact play covers any consensual hitting during sex or a BDSM scene: spanking with a hand, or using a paddle, flogger, crop or cane. The sensations range from a light sting to strong thuds, and people enjoy it for the endorphin rush, the trust involved and the power exchange.
It is one of the most common ways people start with BDSM.
Common toys
Hands are the best place to start, as you feel what your partner feels. Paddles spread force over a wide area; floggers have many soft tails and give a thuddy sensation; crops and canes are much more intense and focused.
Fetish and sex shops sell beginner kits. Start soft and work up.
Where to strike, and where not
Aim for fleshy, padded areas: the buttocks and the tops of the thighs are safest. Never strike the spine, kidneys (the lower back either side of the spine), neck, head, joints, stomach or the backs of the knees.
Warm up with light strokes and rubbing before anything harder, and watch your partner's reactions throughout.
Safe words and aftercare
Agree limits and a safe word before you start; many people use a traffic-light system of green, yellow and red. Stop straight away if it is used.
Afterwards, cuddle, talk, and check skin for marks. Our guide to aftercare explains why this matters, and fetish clubs often run beginner workshops.
Your questions, answered
What is impact play in BDSM?
Consensual striking of the body for pleasure, from spanking to paddles, floggers and canes.
Where is it safe to hit during impact play?
Padded areas such as the buttocks and the tops of the thighs. Avoid the spine, kidneys, neck, head, joints and stomach.
What is a good impact play toy for beginners?
Your hand, then a wide leather paddle or a soft flogger.
