Gor Slave Training (positions)
Practicing positions based on the Gorean subculture. Short Explanation: "Receiving" means you learn and adopt slave positions; "Giving" means you instruct or enforce them.
Interested in exploring Gor Slave Training (positions) with your partner?
Start Your ChecklistGor slave training positions derive from the science fiction novels of John Norman, which depict a fictional world where elaborate slavery protocols exist. While controversial due to the novels' gender dynamics, elements of Gorean practice—particularly the codified position system—have been adopted and adapted by many in the BDSM community.
The appeal of Gorean positions lies in their precision and ritualistic nature. Each position has a specific name, exact physical arrangement, and contextual meaning. For practitioners who enjoy structure, protocol, and clear expectations, the Gorean system provides a comprehensive framework. Many couples adopt selected positions while discarding elements that don't suit their dynamic.
This guide explores common Gorean positions, their practical execution, and considerations for incorporating them into modern D/s relationships. Understanding the positions enables informed choice about which, if any, to integrate into your practice.
How Gor Positions Work
Gorean positions are precise physical poses a slave assumes when commanded or contextually appropriate. Each position serves specific purposes—display, waiting, service readiness, or transition. Mastery involves both physical ability and instantaneous response to commands.
Common Positions
Several positions form the core of Gorean practice:
- Nadu (Pleasure Slave): Kneeling with knees spread wide, back straight, head up, hands palm-up on thighs. The primary presentation position indicating availability and openness.
- Tower (Free Woman): Similar to Nadu but knees together. Indicates modesty; used by trained slaves in certain contexts.
- Bara: Lying face-down, arms at sides or crossed behind back. A vulnerable, waiting position.
- Ko-lar: Kneeling with forehead to floor, arms extended forward. Extreme submission/greeting position.
- Leading Position: Standing or walking behind and to the left of the Master, following closely.
- Obeisance: Kneeling, bowing forward to kiss feet or floor. Formal greeting or request position.
- Lesha: Standing with hands behind neck, ready for leashing.
- Bracelets: Standing with wrists crossed behind back, ready for binding.
Position Commands
Commands are typically single words that trigger immediate position assumption:
- "Nadu" - Assume Nadu position
- "Tower" - Assume Tower position
- "Bara" - Go to Bara position
- "Ko-lar" - Assume Ko-lar
- "Lesha" - Prepare for leashing
- "Bracelets" - Present for binding
Safety Considerations
While position training is relatively low-risk physically, attention to body limitations and psychological dynamics ensures healthy practice.
Physical Safety
- Flexibility requirements: Some positions require hip flexibility or knee health; modify for physical limitations
- Knee protection: Positions involving kneeling benefit from padded surfaces
- Duration limits: Holding positions for extended periods causes discomfort; build duration gradually
- Back strain: Positions requiring upright spine should be held within comfortable limits
- Floor positions: Ensure clean, comfortable surfaces for Bara and similar positions
- Standing positions: Note dizziness risk when rising after extended kneeling
Emotional Safety
- Gorean philosophy context: Understand the novels depict fictional extreme slavery; adapt elements thoughtfully
- Gender dynamics: Original Gor is heteronormative; modern practitioners adapt for all genders and orientations
- Cherry-picking: It's appropriate to use positions without adopting problematic philosophy
- Humiliation aspects: Some positions are inherently humbling; ensure this is desired
- Consent for specific positions: Discuss which positions feel comfortable before demanding them
Red Flags
Address concerns if:
- Physical pain beyond expected discomfort
- Positions are used punitively without prior agreement
- Partner feels uncomfortable with specific positions' implications
- Training creates anxiety rather than fulfillment
Beginner's Guide
Starting with Gorean positions involves selecting suitable elements and building proficiency:
- Research thoughtfully: Understand positions' origins and meanings before adopting
- Select positions: Choose positions that resonate with your dynamic; skip those that don't
- Learn physical execution: Practice positions alone to ensure proper form
- Start with one or two: Master a couple positions before adding more
- Practice without pressure: Initial learning should be educational, not demanding
- Add verbal commands: Once physical proficiency develops, integrate command/response
- Build speed gradually: Quick transitions come with practice, not pressure
- Integrate meaningfully: Use positions in context where they add to your dynamic
You don't need to adopt the entire Gorean system. Many practitioners use a few positions that work for their relationship while ignoring the rest.
Discussing with Your Partner
Conversations about Gorean position training should address practical application and philosophical comfort:
Topics to discuss:
- Familiarity with Gor novels and comfort with their philosophical context
- Specific positions each partner finds appealing or unappealing
- Contexts where positions will be expected (scenes, daily protocol, specific situations)
- Training approach—patient instruction versus strict expectations
- Physical limitations affecting certain positions
- Terminology preferences—use original names or create alternatives
- Whether positions are exclusive to your dynamic or borrowed from broader tradition
Many couples create personalized position systems inspired by but not identical to Gorean practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to read the Gor novels to use Gorean positions?
No. Many practitioners learn positions through community resources without reading the novels. The books are lengthy science fiction that many find problematic. Online resources, community workshops, and other practitioners can teach positions without novel-reading. However, understanding the source material provides context if you choose to explore further.
Are Gorean positions only for female submissives?
In the original novels, yes—they depict female slaves serving male Masters. In modern BDSM practice, positions are adapted for all genders and dynamic configurations. Male submissives, non-binary individuals, and all dominant genders can participate. The physical positions work regardless of gender; practitioners adapt terminology and context to fit their dynamics.
How strict should position training be?
Strictness depends on your dynamic preferences. Some couples enjoy precise, military-style training with corrections for errors. Others take a relaxed approach, focusing on approximate positions and intention over perfection. Neither is more valid. Discuss what style works for your relationship. Training should be fulfilling, not traumatizing.
What if I can't physically do certain positions?
Modify positions to accommodate your body. Nadu requires hip flexibility some people lack—adapt knee width accordingly. Ko-lar requires getting on the floor—use furniture support if needed. The intention and effort matter more than textbook-perfect execution. Any position system should serve your dynamic, not injure you trying to achieve it.
Is the Gorean lifestyle the same as using Gorean positions?
No. The "Gorean lifestyle" involves comprehensive adoption of Gorean philosophy including specific beliefs about gender, slavery, and society. Using Gorean positions is simply borrowing physical poses. Many practitioners use positions without subscribing to broader Gorean philosophy. You can incorporate the practical elements that work for you while rejecting philosophical aspects you find objectionable.
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