How to Begin Your Exploration of Impact Play

How to Begin Your Exploration of Impact Play

by Jacee Niblett - February 21, 2025

The world of Kink and BDSM is vast, diverse, and deeply personal—a gorgeous tapestry of unique sexual expression. Under this expansive umbrella, there are countless ways to play, connect, and explore; one of which is impact play. Whether you're drawn to the sharp sting of a flogger, the rhythmic thud of a paddle, or the sensual contrast of pleasure and pain, impact play offers a rich avenue for sensation, power exchange, or embodied experience.

It does require a specific level of care, communication, and intention - but it’s an incredibly rewarding way to engage with your desires, in part because of this care and attention. So this week, let’s dive into the essentials—practical tips, best practices, and everything you need to confidently and safely begin your journey with impact play.

Consent & Communication

One of the beautiful elements of exploring non-traditional areas of sexuality like impact play is how it demands a certain level of care and communication. Especially at first, it’s so important to take that time to discuss, negotiate, establish boundaries and collaborate before entering into a scene. You might get caught up in a routine where sexual communication isn’t commonplace, but with this new experience it’s mandatory - which is a great thing!

Prior to a scene you can discuss what you’re looking forward to, what areas of your body you want impacted, levels of intensity that feel comfortable and then your hard no’s and even a safe word. After, practice reflecting with your partner - what worked and felt good and which parts could you do without next time?

This communication is the foundation of a good sexual experience, so have fun with it.

Scandal® Flogger

Differentiate Tools

Another great tip is to get familiar with the different types of products available and the different sensations they offer. A flogger is going to feel quite different from a whip - so having that knowledge before buying is a good idea to ensure you get what’s really calling to you.

Get a flogger if you want a diffused thuddy sensation, or if you want variety - you can adjust the intensity and sensation of this product easily and get really creative! Whips are going to be a bit more sharp and stinging, crops are sharp and even more focused, and paddles give you that thud, but it’s more direct and heavy.

These sensations vary greatly, and everyone prefers something just a little different. So for this, it’s a great idea to shop in person, where you can physically touch the material and better assess how it’s going to work in a scene.

Spartacus Wooden 2 Heart Cutouts Paddle

Lean into Pleasure

Finally, my last general tip is to lean into and savor the benefits of impact play. Trying new sensations, exploring your edges, honoring your desires and combating sexual shame are just a few of these benefits.

In a sex negative culture, we are taught to suppress and shame our pleasure which is a completely natural and normal part of who we are. So in resistance to that culture, lean into your desires and explore this new avenue of sexual expression with pride and joy. Savor each moment, practice bodily awareness and translate this new energy into other areas of your life!

Master Series Stung Silicone Tawse - Red

Impact play, like all forms of kink, is a journey—one of exploration, connection, and deepening intimacy with yourself and your partner(s). By prioritizing consent, communicating openly, and experimenting with different tools and sensations, you create a space for play that is exciting and sensual, and deeply fulfilling.

Lean into what excites you, embrace the learning process, and trust that your desires are worth exploring. There’s no “right” way to play—only what feels good, safe, and authentic to you. So step into this experience with confidence, curiosity, and the freedom to discover what truly brings you pleasure.

Be safe and have fun!