Search

How to Start Anal Training: A Beginner’s Step-by-Step Guide

  • 5 min read


Anal sex can be an incredible source of pleasure, but like any new activity, it takes preparation. Without proper training, many people experience pain, discomfort, or frustration that makes them give up too early. Anal training solves that problem. By gradually teaching your body to adapt to penetration, you can experience comfort, control, and ultimately more satisfying anal play.

At Pace Pleasure, we believe anal training should never feel like something you have to endure. With the right tools, mindset, and pacing, it becomes a journey of discovery — one that can lead to pain-free, pleasurable anal sex.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know about starting anal training, from preparation to practice, so you can feel confident every step of the way.

Step 1: Why anal training matters

Unlike the vaginal canal, the anus is controlled by two rings of muscle called sphincters. Their natural function is to stay tightly closed. That’s why penetration without preparation often leads to discomfort.

Anal training works because it:

  • Helps the sphincter muscles gradually stretch and relax.

  • Reduces the risk of tearing or pain.

  • Builds confidence and trust in your own body.

  • Makes penetration feel pleasurable, not forced.

  • Allows you to enjoy anal play as part of a healthy sex life.

Skipping training is like trying to run a marathon without warming up. Possible? Maybe. Enjoyable? Not really.

Step 2: Mindset is everything

Anal training is not a competition. It doesn’t matter how quickly someone else progresses — your body has its own timeline.

Keep these reminders in mind:

  • Be patient. Training can take weeks or months.

  • Focus on sensation, not just “getting to the biggest size.”

  • Treat training sessions as a form of self-care or intimacy, not just a chore.

  • If you’re working with a partner, communicate openly about what feels good and what doesn’t.

When you see training as exploration rather than obligation, it becomes easier to stay consistent.

 

Step 3: Gather your essentials

Before you begin, you’ll want a few key items:

  1. Anal training kit: A set of plugs in gradually increasing sizes. Our Slo.Mo kit is designed with smart sizing and anatomical comfort zones (Peak and Valley) that help you progress safely.

  2. Lubricant: Always use plenty of high-quality water-based lube. Anal play requires it.

  3. Privacy and time: Set aside quiet, unrushed moments where you can relax fully.

  4. Hygiene basics: A shower and some wipes are usually all you need.

  5. Optional extras: Towels, gloves, or a mirror if you like being able to see what’s happening.

 

Step 3.5: Preparation and cleaning — do you need an enema?

One of the most common questions about anal training is whether you need to douche or use an enema first. The short answer: not always.

  • For short training sessions, a quick shower and external cleaning is usually enough.

  • A gentle douche can help some people feel more relaxed and confident, but it’s not mandatory.

  • If you do douche, avoid overdoing it — once is enough, and always use lukewarm water.

  • Anal training isn’t about being sterile. It’s about being comfortable and relaxed.

Over-cleaning can actually irritate the body, so think of preparation as reassurance, not a requirement.

 

Step 4: Start small and slow

Even a finger can feel overwhelming at first, which is why a graduated kit is so helpful. Begin with the smallest plug, designed to be smaller than most fingers.

Here’s how:

  • Apply generous amounts of lube to the plug and your body.

  • Stimulate externally first to help the sphincter muscles relax.

  • Insert slowly, pausing when you feel resistance.

  • Once inserted, breathe deeply and let your body adjust.

The goal isn’t to “push through.” It’s to let your body realize this is safe and pleasurable. Stay with the smallest size until it feels genuinely easy.

 

Step 5: Get familiar with the Peak and the Valley

Smartly designed plugs have a Peak (the widest part) and a Valley (the slimmer resting zone).

  • The Peak stretches the muscles. It may feel like a moment of pressure.

  • The Valley allows the body to settle and relax around the toy.

This design teaches your body to expand and then rest, creating a natural rhythm. Training becomes a cycle of gentle challenge followed by comfort, making it more sustainable long-term.

 

Step 6: Build a routine

Like fitness, consistency matters more than intensity. Training two or three times per week is often better than cramming everything into one session.

Tips for building a routine:

  • Start with 10–15 minutes. Increase as comfort grows.

  • If you feel sore the next day, rest — muscles need recovery.

  • Gentle stretch or pressure is okay; sharp pain is not.

Over time, what felt intimidating becomes second nature.

 

Step 7: Know when to size up

You’re ready to move up when:

  • The current size inserts easily.

  • You can relax fully into the Valley.

  • You can move or walk around without discomfort.

Don’t rush this. Later size jumps often feel larger than earlier ones. It’s normal to spend more time on the mid-range sizes.

 

Step 8: Add movement and pleasure

Training doesn’t have to feel mechanical. Once plugs are comfortable, start experimenting:

  • Wear them while moving around.

  • Add vibration to increase sensation.

  • Combine with other sexual activities.

  • Explore thrusting or rocking motions, not just static wear.

This keeps training fun and builds positive associations.

 

Step 9: Transition to penetration

When you reach plug sizes that match your partner’s penis or toy, you can begin experimenting with penetration.

Tips for your first time:

  • Use even more lube than you think you need.

  • Choose positions that give you control, like being on top or side-lying.

  • Pause at the Peak and let your body adjust.

  • Keep communication open — saying “slower” or “hold here” is part of the process.

Remember, sex is not a test of endurance. It’s about comfort and connection.

 

Step 10: Maintain and enjoy

Anal training isn’t one-and-done. Many people continue light training even after they’re comfortable with penetration, just to keep the muscles conditioned.

  • Keep your toys clean and stored properly.

  • Replace them if they show wear or damage.

  • Stay stocked with lube. Nothing kills the mood faster than running out.

Anal training can remain a part of your sexual routine long after your initial goals are met.

 

FAQs about anal training

Do I need to train every day?
No. A few times per week is usually enough. Daily training can be too much for the muscles and may cause irritation.

How long does it take to train fully?
Everyone is different. Some people feel comfortable in a few weeks, others take months. Focus on progress, not speed.

What if I can’t get past a certain size?
It’s normal to plateau. Take your time at that size, focus on relaxation, and experiment with movement or vibration. Many people find that after a few extra sessions, the body adapts naturally.

Is anal training safe?
Yes, if done properly. Always use body-safe materials, plenty of lube, and never force insertion. Sharp pain is a signal to stop.

Do I need a partner to train?
Not at all. Anal training can be a solo practice or something you explore with a partner later. Both are valid.

Does anal training help with prostate play?
Yes. For people with prostates, training makes it easier to enjoy prostate stimulation comfortably, as the muscles are already used to penetration.

 

Final thoughts

Anal training is about patience, consistency, and pleasure. With the right mindset and tools, what once felt intimidating becomes deeply enjoyable. Whether your goal is pain-free anal sex, exploring prostate play, or simply learning to enjoy the fullness of plugs, training gives you the confidence to explore on your own terms.

At Pace Pleasure, we designed the Slo.Mo kit to take the guesswork out of this process. Each plug builds on the last with the right balance of challenge and comfort, so your body learns gradually and safely.

Take it slow. Listen to your body. And remember: anal play should always feel good.

Search our shop