If you thought swinging was a thing of the past, you’re in for a surprise. 

Known commonly today as “The Lifestyle”, swinging is a surprisingly common community for today’s generation. While the days of tossing your keys in a bowl or the upside down pineapples may seem like vintage memories, swinging is a thriving and vibrant secret world all around you! 

What Is Swinging? 

Swinging is a form of non-monogamy that involves consensual partner swapping. Unlike open relationships, swinging is to be explored as a team. While swinging can be anything from flirting to teasing, the most common type of swinging is shared sexual experiences. While the idea of swinging sounds exhilarating, the most important thing to remember is that swinging involves consent, communication, and respect. 

Types of Swinging: 

1. Soft Swap: 

Soft swapping means engaging with other couples and individuals without participating in full-on intercourse. Kissing, touching, and oral sex are considered soft swapping.

2. Hard Swap

Couples engaging in sexual intercourse with other couples or individuals is considered a full swap. If you visit a swingers party or a sex club, this is likely the most common type of swinging you will experience. 

3. Same Room Play: 

For couples curious about the lifestyle, but not ready to take the plunge with their partners, same room play is the ticket. Same room play involves engaging in sexual activities with their partners without touching others directly. 

What To Know About Swinging

1. Swinging Is Not Cheating

Unlike cheating, all partners are aware of the activity. Swinging is based on open communication and consent for partners to explore their sexuality together.  

2. Swinging Is For Happy Couples:

Many couples feel a deeper sexual desire for their partners in The Lifestyle, as they are exploring their fantasies together – even if they are with different partners. 

3. Swinging Doesn’t Make You Promiscuous 

Swinging is a lifestyle choice, and it doesn’t reflect on your personal values. It’s a way of exploring your desires, connecting with your sexuality, and choosing pleasure. 

4. Swinging Will Not Fix A Relationship

If you’re exploring the lifestyle as a way to fix your marriage, this is most likely to backfire. It’s important to have a strong and healthy connection with your partner before opening the door to others in your relationship. Swinging is about deepening your relationship and exploring your passions together. 

How To Talk To Your Partner About Swinging 

1. Open The Discussion

So you’re curious about The Lifestyle? The best way to open your relationship is to have an honest discussion with your partner. Share why you want to explore the world of swinging. Open up about what makes you excited, nervous, intrigued, turned on, etc. Explain how you want to deepen your sexual connection with your partner as a team and share information about the different types of swinging. 

2. Set Boundaries

Set boundaries and limits for swinging. Do you want to start with same room play? What are your limits? Can you exchange numbers with new friends at swinger parties? Will you use your real names? Make sure you communicate effectively before diving in head first to make sure your partner is on your same page. 

3. Learn About The Lifestyle

Research the lifestyle and understand the different types of swinging and discover what you feel comfortable with. Explore local swingers clubs, download apps to connect with swingers, read stories from swingers online, and learn from others to determine if this is the right decision for your relationship. 

4. Dip Your Toe In

Ready to try swinging? Perhaps start with a swingers party or resort to get a feel for The Lifestyle. Meet other swingers, share flirty banter at the bar, learn about their experience. Swingers are some of the friendliest and most open folks you will meet, so don’t be afraid to ask questions before getting frisky. 

5. Communicate Continuously 

Communication is key! Check in with your partner before, during, and after swinging. Even if your partner agrees to try it, it’s important to remain as a team even if you’re exploring with new partners. If either of you feel uncomfortable during the act, it should be understood that it’s time to check out. 

6. Practice Safety

Consent is the most important part of swinging, and no always means no. Also, using protection is key to protecting your partner when you’re engaging with someone outside of your primary relationship. 

If approached with mutual respect and consent, swinging can be an exhilarating way to spice up your relationship and share new experiences with your partner.  Welcome to The Lifestyle!