Suspension - Upright
Being suspended while remaining in a standing or vertical position for restraint and aesthetic appeal. Short Explanation: "Receiving" means you are suspended upright; "Giving" means you provide upright restraint to your partner.
Interested in exploring Suspension - Upright with your partner?
Start Your ChecklistUpright suspension bondage positions the bound partner in a vertical standing or hanging orientation, creating a classic and visually powerful form of rope suspension. This position offers a balance between the intensity of full suspension and relative accessibility for those progressing from partial suspensions, though it remains an advanced technique requiring substantial skill and preparation.
The upright position allows for extended suspension times compared to inversions while still providing the transformative experience of being lifted from the ground. Many practitioners find the standing or hanging posture creates a particular psychological space—vulnerable yet dignified, helpless yet elevated.
This guide covers everything you need to understand about upright suspension: the techniques used, safety requirements, and how to discuss this practice with potential partners. Whether you're researching as a curious beginner or looking to refine existing skills, this information supports safer, more informed practice.
How Upright Suspension Works
Upright suspension uses harness systems to lift or support a person in a vertical orientation. The primary load-bearing points typically include the chest, hips, and thighs, distributing body weight to prevent dangerous pressure on any single area.
Techniques and Variations
The TK (Takate Kote) or box tie forms the foundation of many upright suspensions, creating a secure upper body harness that can bear significant load when properly executed. Hip harnesses and leg wraps provide lower body support and prevent the torso from bearing all the weight.
Standing suspensions keep feet in contact with the ground initially, progressively removing support as the person adjusts to being held by rope. Full upright suspensions lift completely off the ground, with variations in arm position, leg arrangement, and overall aesthetic.
Dynamic variations incorporate swinging, spinning, or transitional movements. Some riggers specialize in decorative patterns that emphasize visual beauty alongside functional security. Others focus on minimal, functional ties that maximize the sensory and psychological experience.
Equipment and Tools
Quality suspension rope, typically 6mm natural fiber or synthetic equivalent, forms the primary tool. Hardware includes rescue-rated carabiners, suspension rings or bamboo poles, and properly engineered overhead hard points. EMT shears must be immediately accessible for emergency situations.
Many upright suspensions benefit from swivels that allow rotation without rope twist. Padding may protect sensitive areas, and crash mats provide a safety margin beneath the suspension point.
Safety Considerations
Upright suspension, while generally more sustainable than horizontal or inverted positions, still carries significant risks requiring careful management.
Physical Safety
Nerve compression remains the primary physical risk. The brachial plexus in the shoulder area and radial nerve in the upper arm are particularly vulnerable in upright positions that use arm bondage as load-bearing elements. Proper tie placement and regular sensation checks help prevent injury.
Circulation concerns apply throughout the body but particularly in the hands and arms if upper body ties are incorporated. Regular checks for color, temperature, and sensation in extremities help identify problems before they become injuries.
Suspension time limits depend on harness design, individual factors, and regular assessment. Even well-designed upright suspensions typically should not exceed 30-40 minutes without position changes or breaks.
Emotional Safety
The vulnerability of being lifted off the ground can trigger unexpected emotional responses. Pre-scene discussion should cover how each partner might handle emotional intensity, with clear communication protocols throughout the scene.
The power dynamic of upright suspension—being literally elevated and controlled—carries psychological weight that partners should discuss and consciously engage with.
Red Flags
Stop immediately for numbness, tingling, sharp pain, loss of grip strength, cold or discolored extremities, difficulty breathing, or emotional distress. Any equipment concerns—unusual sounds, rope movement, or hardware issues—warrant immediate safe descent.
Beginner's Guide
Upright suspension is often the first full suspension type practitioners attempt, but it still requires substantial preparation. A solid foundation in floor bondage and partial suspensions must precede any full suspension work.
Learn proper harness construction for load-bearing ties before incorporating them into suspension. The same tie that's comfortable on the floor may create dangerous pressure points when supporting body weight. Take formal instruction from experienced riggers.
Progress through partial suspensions systematically. Start with maintaining some body weight on feet while supported by chest harness, then gradually reduce ground contact as you assess harness performance and model comfort.
Build your equipment collection thoughtfully. Quality rope, properly rated hardware, and engineered hard points are non-negotiable investments. Learn to inspect and maintain your equipment regularly.
Community involvement provides essential feedback and safety support. Peer rope sessions, workshops, and mentorship relationships accelerate learning while providing safety backup.
Discussing with Your Partner
Open communication about suspension requires discussing both the excitement and the risks honestly. Both partners should understand their respective responsibilities and limitations.
Share your experience levels truthfully. For riggers, this means being honest about how many suspensions you've performed and under what circumstances. For models, share your experience being suspended and any physical factors that might affect the experience.
Discuss specific expectations: what kind of experience each person is seeking, what positions or elements are desired, and what lies outside comfort zones. Establish clear time parameters and check-in protocols.
Plan for aftercare, which may be more intensive after suspension than other bondage. Discuss what kind of support each partner needs after the scene, including physical care and emotional processing time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to learn upright suspension?
Most practitioners spend at least one to two years developing fundamental rope skills before attempting full suspensions. This timeline varies based on practice frequency, quality of instruction, and individual learning pace. Rushing this progression significantly increases injury risk.
What's the most important safety skill for suspension?
Recognizing and responding to nerve impingement is arguably the most critical skill. Learning to identify numbness, tingling, or loss of function early and responding immediately prevents the most common serious suspension injuries.
Can upright suspension be done solo?
Self-suspension is an advanced practice with unique risks, particularly around emergency response capability. If you pursue self-suspension, do so only with substantial experience, redundant safety systems, and ideally someone nearby who can assist in emergency.
What body types work best for suspension?
Suspension techniques can be adapted for many body types, though some positions work better for certain proportions. Experienced riggers learn to adjust harness placement and load distribution for individual bodies. The model's fitness level and flexibility may matter more than size.
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