Fisting Is a Sexual Act That Involves

Fisting is a sexual act that involves inserting the whole hand into the vagina (vaginal fisting) or anus (hardballing). In a way, the name fisting is an inaccurate description for what happens during the act. The whole fist is not rammed in all at once like a punch. It is a gradual process, usually inserting and adding one finger at a time. And once the whole hand is inside, it does not ball up into the shape of a fist, although it may curl. But because the whole hand is inside (sometimes up to the wrist), perhaps this justifies the use of the term fisting (Women, Culture and Society FAQ). According to Answers. com, the medical terms for fisting are brachiovaginal eroticism (vaginal) and brachioproctic eroticism (anal). Fisting became popular during the sexual revolution of the 1960s and '70s when private fisting clubs for gay men sprang up in urban areas (Taormino, 2005). Lesbians, bisexuals, and heterosexuals do it too. A few women, with flexible bodies and wrists are able to do it to themselves (Answers.com).

If done properly, gently and slowly, fisting usually results in a very powerful orgasm. Generous lubrication with vegetable shortening such as Crisco, or a water-based product like KY Jelly is important. If combined with latex gloves, it is best to avoid oil-based products which break down latex. Stick with water-based lubricant. Wearing a glove protects the "fister" from possible STDs (contracted through breaks in the skin) and protects the "fistee" from sharp cuticles and/or untrimmed finger nails (it's best to file them short if you plan to try this activity). According to Good Vibrations web site, "many people choose to fist without using gloves and it is often quite a safe practice -- at least, when it's done with care in the first place. That includes using enough lube, trimming the nails, going slow."

In "The Art of Anal Fisting," Taormino suggests some stretching of the anus first: "I started with a medium-sized butt plug (appropriately called Voyager) ... which I wore for awhile, then switched to a larger, very thick red plug. Whenever that one slides in ... It feels too big at first, but inevitably I take a deep breath and in it goes. When I felt like my ass was relaxed and ready for more, Red put on a latex glove, slipped out the butt plug, and started working her fingers inside me as I lay on my back. I took lots of deep breaths, concentrated on relaxing and opening up. She eventually got all five fingers up to the final knuckles -- the widest part of the hand ... "