Beginner’s Guide to Anal Training

There’s a sensitive area in the anus often called the P-spot, and many describe it as intensely pleasurable when touched the right way. But what most don’t mention is that the first time can feel uncomfortable or even painful without proper preparation.

If you’re planning to try anal without rushing or risking injury, this guide is for you. It explains how long training usually takes and how to choose the right kit. You’ll also find prep techniques, detailed instructions, and a sample schedule to make the experience comfortable and enjoyable.

What Is Anal Training?

Anal training is the process of slowly and safely getting the body used to penetration through the anus. It’s all about learning to stretch the muscles at a comfortable pace to increase flexibility, reduce pain, and build up to deeper levels of pleasure. It is basically a step-by-step tutorial that helps prepare the body for anal sex, whether it’s the first time or part of an ongoing routine [1].

Contrary to popular belief, anal training isn’t limited to BDSM or advanced practices. Straight and gay individuals, both male and female, can benefit from it. Many use anal training kits or specially designed toys to explore their bodies, discover what feels good, or make anal intercourse more enjoyable with a partner. Others simply enjoy experimenting with different sensations, from a small plug or tapered cone to a larger dildo or vibrator.

If you’re curious about the motivations behind this kind of play, check out “Why Do Guys Like Anal Sex?” It explains the psychological and physical sides of this form of intimacy.

What Do You Need to Start Anal Training?

Getting started with anal training doesn’t require a lot, but the right items make all the difference in comfort and safety. The basics include:

• anal training toys;
• plenty of lubricant;
• a numbing cream for added comfort (not compulsory).

A typical beginner’s kit includes a few toys designed for gradual stretching and muscle relaxation. These often come in a set of different sizes, starting with a small, gentle plug or cone and progressing to larger ones. Whether done solo or with a partner, the main goal of these tools is to make each insertion slow, controlled, and pain-free.

Anal Training Toys: Types, Sizes & Materials

What is the best type to begin with, what size is best, and what material is safest? These are key questions to ask before beginning any training routine. As a rule of thumb, choose toys that feel comfortable, safe, and easy to control. The goal is to help your body adapt gradually rather than rush the process.

Types of Anal Toys

Here are the most common types of anal toys that can be used during training [2]. Each one offers a unique experience for different comfort levels and preferences:

1. Double penetration toys: These are designed to stimulate the vagina and anus (or penis and anus) at the same time. For beginners, they can be helpful for exploring how the body reacts to fullness and pressure in both areas.
2. Inflatable anal toys: These toys start small and can be gradually inflated once inside, which makes them perfect for progressive stretching. The user can control the size and depth easily, adjusting to what feels comfortable.
3. Vibrating anal toys: Vibrators help relax the sphincter muscles, making insertion easier. Their rhythmic motion encourages natural relaxation and reduces sensitivity in the area.
4. Anal dildos (slim versions): Dildos are excellent for learning how to manage depth and angle during insertion. They’re long, smooth, and narrow, and this makes them suitable for beginners who want to simulate the feel of sex without too much stretching.
5. Prostate massagers: These toys are designed mainly for male anatomy, targeting the prostate gland for added stimulation. However, their curved shape and moderate size make them great for training.
6. Anal beads: Ideal for beginners — they start small and increase in size gradually. Removing them slowly provides rhythmic stimulation and helps the muscles learn to contract and relax. They’re also a gentle way to explore how to start without feeling overwhelmed.
7. Butt plugs: The most classic anal training tool; they come in various sizes and materials, with a flared base for safety and a tapered shape to make insertion easy and smooth.

No matter which toy is used, it’s important to always prioritize relaxation, lubrication, and patience.

Best Toy Sizes for Beginners

Choosing the right size is one of the most important steps in anal training. For beginners, the golden rule is to start small. A good starting point is a toy that’s around 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter and about 4 to 5 inches in length. This allows the body to adapt slowly without strain or discomfort [3].

As your comfort level increases, slightly larger toys can be introduced to help with gradual stretching and muscle flexibility. It’s also smart to follow a schedule; training daily or a few times a week with short sessions can help the body adapt more naturally. Remember, anal training isn’t about how big or deep one can go in a short time; it’s about building comfort and confidence step by step.

Safe Materials for Anal Toys

The material of your toy is just as important as its size or shape. Medical-grade silicone is widely considered the safest and most comfortable option. It’s soft, flexible, body-safe, non-porous, and easy to clean.

Stainless steel and glass are also excellent choices. They smooth, hygienic, and great for temperature play or depth control, though their heavier weight suits more experienced users. ABS plastic is another safe material, especially for vibrators or plugs. It’s affordable, firm, and effortless to wash.

Jelly rubber or PVC toys are not safe for insertion and should be avoided, especially during long-term anal training. They contain harmful chemicals and are porous, meaning they can trap bacteria even after cleaning.

Lubricants and Numbing Creams

No matter how good the anal training toys are, nothing works smoothly without the right lubricant. The anus doesn’t produce natural lubrication, so adding one is important to make insertion easier, prevent tearing, and ensure overall comfort.

There are 4 main types of lubricants [4]:

• water: Easy to clean and safe to use with all toys, especially silicone. However, they may dry out faster during longer sessions;
• silicone: Last longer and stay slicker, making them ideal for anal training and sex. Avoid using these lubes with silicone toys, as they can damage the surface;
• oil: Thick and durable but unsafe with latex condoms and most toys. They’re also harder to wash off;
• hybrid: Combine water and silicone bases for long-lasting glide and easy cleanup.

Some natural oils, like coconut oil, can work as homemade lubricants, but use them with care. Always ensure they’re body-safe and compatible with your toys to avoid irritation or material damage.

As for numbing creams, they temporarily reduce sensitivity in the anal area, helping those who feel discomfort or tightness during insertion. A thin layer can relax the muscles and make training smoother, but moderation is key — too much can mask pain and increase the risk of injury. When used sparingly and paired with a calm mindset and a proper anal training kit, numbing creams can make the experience safer and more comfortable.

How to Do Anal Training: Beginners’ Tips

Anal training is about understanding how the body works and learning to move with it. For anyone exploring how to do it safely, it’s important to know a bit about anatomy first. The anus has 2 sphincters — outer and inner — that act like two rings controlling what goes in and out.

The outer sphincter can be trained to loosen over time, but the inner one contracts on its own. If anything goes too far past the outer ring, the inner muscles could pull the object inside. This is why it’s advisable to only use anal toys with a flared base. Toys without one can get drawn inside, leading to an uncomfortable (and often embarrassing) medical visit.

Here are 6 beginner tips that make anal training safe, clean, and comfortable [5][6]:

1. Clean Your Hole

Before starting, clean the area with warm water and a mild soap, or use a rectal douche to rinse out the lower part of the rectum. This removes any residue and helps you feel more confident.

2. Breathe and Relax

The outer sphincter responds directly to stress. Deep, slow breathing sends signals to the brain that it’s safe to relax. Inhale deeply, exhale slowly, and let the body soften. The calmer the body feels, the easier it becomes to let things in without pain or resistance.

3. Use Plenty of Lubricant

Anal play should never be dry. Always apply enough lubricant on the toy you intend to use, your ass, and around the opening before inserting anything. It’s generally better to have too much lube than too little, especially if it’s the first time. It’s important to reapply whenever things begin to feel sticky or dry.

4. Warm Up Before Penetration

Start by gently massaging the outside of the anus with a finger or soft toy. Circular motions help relax the outer sphincter and prepare it for deeper play. It also helps to get aroused first through touch, massage, or stimulation in other areas. When the body is turned on, blood flow increases, the muscles loosen up, and resistance decreases, making the process much more comfortable.

5. Stop if It Hurts

Sharp pain, burning, or bleeding are clear signs to stop immediately. Anal training should never hurt. Forcing things can cause small tears or irritation, which can take time to heal. If discomfort lingers, take a few days off before trying again. Patience is a huge part of this training process.

6. Clean Your Toys

Always wash your toys before and after use. Use warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap, or a dedicated sex toy cleaner. Rinse thoroughly and allow them to air-dry or pat them dry with a clean towel. For porous materials like rubber or jelly, consider using a condom over the toy for hygiene. Store each toy separately in a clean, dry place to prevent bacteria buildup.

Curious about how stimulation affects arousal or performance during sex? Read the post “Why Do Men Cum Fast?” to learn more.

How Long Does Anal Training Take?

There’s no fixed timeline for anal training because every body is different. Progress depends less on time and more on consistency, comfort, and patience. The key is to let the body adapt at its own pace instead of rushing through the process.

For most men and women, training 4 to 5 times a week works well. Each session can last around 10 to 15 minutes, keeping a toy, whether it’s a small plug or a slim dildo, in place during that time. This gives the muscles enough time to relax and gradually adjust without strain [5]. When the current size starts to feel comfortable, it’s safe to move up to the next one. Still, it’s important to give the body a week or two to adapt before making any changes.

The anal muscles are sensitive, and pushing too fast can lead to discomfort or small tears that take longer to heal. Even after completing the training phase, it’s usually best to increase only about a quarter of an inch at a time when sizing up. Slow and steady progress is always the safest and most effective approach.

In Summary

Anal training is a gradual, safe practice that helps the body relax and accept anal insertion without pain. The body responds best when it’s treated gently and consistently, not forced or hurried. Many people try to speed things up, but that often leads to discomfort or injury.

It’s worth noting that anal training isn’t a race to reach a specific size or depth within the shortest possible time. It’s about using the right tools, understanding the body’s signals, and progressing at a pace that feels safe and comfortable. It might take time, but with patience and consistency, the results are almost always worth it.

References:

1. BDSM Anal Training: How to Get Started & What Is It? Retrieved: October 19, 2025. Mxtomie.com.
2. Types of Anal Toys. By Brian Sanderson. Retrieved: October 19, 2025. Jackandjilladult.com.
3. Best Anal Toys for Beginners. By Brian Sanderson. Retrieved: October 19, 2025. Jackandjilladult.com.
4. Your Guide to Lube for Sex: Types, How to Use, and More. By Mariah Adcox. Medically reviewed by Jennifer Litner, PhD, LMFT, CST. Retrieved: October 19, 2025. Healthline.com.
5. Anal Training: How to Train Your Butt for Anal Sex of All Kinds. By Archie Bongiovanni. Retrieved: October 19, 2025. Vice.com.
6. Anal Training: A Guide to Anal for Beginners | Future Method. Retrieved: October 19, 2025. Education.futuremethod.com.