Caning is a form of BDSM impact play wherein one person strikes another’s body with a cane to cause pleasurable sensations of pain. Rooted in traditions of administering caning lashes as a form of corporal punishment (something that does still happen in some jurisdictions), caning has evolved to be a desired sexual activity and lends itself well to role-playing scenarios where corporal punishment might be administered.
Caning is not exclusive to any particular sexuality or gender—many different people who are into impact play enjoy caning.
Because it falls under the BDSM umbrella of kinks and fetishes, caning can be a standalone activity or it can be combined with others, including Dominance and submission, bondage, role play, power exchange, humiliation and punishment and much more.
As with all types of sexual activity, risk-aware, on-going, enthusiastic consent is paramount. Check in often with your partner that they are still into the scene and want to keep going in the same vein. Establish a safeword or action and abide by it and have an aftercare routine mapped out.
Canes used for impact play can be made of a variety of natural and synthetic materials. The most common natural material is rattan, a palm plant. Some types of synthetic canes are made from nylon and acrylic. Most canes are made from materials that offer flexibility to create a whipping sound as they move to the point of impact. Some user prefer harder materials, such as metal, but this is not frequent. Contrary to popular belief, bamboo is not a recommended cane material. It is brittle and easily breaks and splinters, which can cause injury.
There are two general types of canes that produce two distinct sensations. Thinner canes will produce a sharp, stinging sensation that are more akin to a whip and will be more likely to break the skin and cause cuts. Thicker canes produce a thudding sensation, longer-lasting feeling that is closer in sensation to using a paddle. These impacts are more likely to leave deep bruises on the skin.
Canes should not be used on all parts of the body. The optimal body parts for caning are the fleshy backs of the thighs and the buttocks. These areas are low risk for short- or long term damage. Other areas, such as the inner thighs, palms and bottoms of the feet can also produce significant pleasure, but do need to be caned with care.
