Mitigating Risk in Rough Body Play
Rough Body Play is a scene involving punching, kicking, slapping, or striking a partner.
Common Risks of Rough Body Play:
Internal bleeding
Bone, skin, tissue damage
Visible bruising
Nerve damage
Key Requirements of Rough Body Play:
First Aid Kit
Things to Consider During Rough Body Play
Start out slow & gentle with rough body play
Rough body play like punching and kicking are not easy activities to get into. Whether it’s body punching, or right through to ball- and cunt-busting, the force required is far less than one might expect. Never use your knuckles - always use a loose fist, and never use your full strength.
Know where and where not to punch or kick
Generally, any areas that are considered safe impact play zones are ok for rougher body play. Avoid areas where the skin is close to the bone, or any area where there are internal organs. Be careful with any facial impact, as well as breast tissue or the genitals.
Communicate any no-go areas prior to play
Always raise awareness of any no-go zones, such as anywhere you’ve previously had surgery, and be sure that you’ve negotiated thoroughly around any play near these zones. Don’t be afraid of saying no, and never let anyone pressure you into taking impact play further than you’re comfortable.
Be aware that any visible bruising could be queried
Anyone who sees bruising will naturally ask questions; this could include family, friends, or coworkers. Rough body play will easily leave bruises, or if it’s deep muscle impact, it can leave you with a temporary limp. Any cuts and bruises should be treated with first aid and ongoing care as needed.
Give yourself time to recover after any impact play
Rough play can take a heavy toll on the body, and repeated impact can cause long-lasting pain, such as during sex. As the Top, check on the bottom frequently, and spend time reassuring them after play. The toll might be mostly physical, but there will be some emotional vulnerability there, too. As the bottom, be patient with yourself and give your body time to heal. If you continue to feel internal pain on any affected areas, seek medical assistance as soon as possible.
These considerations are not designed to be advice in how to play safely - they are things to think about prior to engaging in dangerous forms of play.
No matter the precautions you take in this kind of activity, you cannot guarantee the safety of those involved. Approach this form of play with extreme caution.
