Impact play: what it means
Play involving consensual striking, from light spanking to the use of paddles or floggers. Safe impact play avoids vulnerable areas such as the spine and kidneys, builds up gradually, and uses clear check-ins.
In practice
Impact play ranges from very light to intense, and people usually start light and build up only with agreement. Common guidance is to avoid vulnerable areas such as the spine, kidneys, neck and joints, warm up gradually, and use the traffic-light system for quick check-ins.
Consent and safety
Learn before you try: classes, books and experienced, trusted people beat guesswork. Negotiate first, start gently, check in often, agree how to stop, and plan aftercare. Nobody owes anyone any activity, ever. For meeting someone new, see our safety tips.
Related terms
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General education for adults 18+, not medical or legal advice. Definitions vary between communities; when in doubt, ask your partner what a word means to them.