THEGAYUK

Day: 18 December 2023

  • Are there gay cruising grounds in Glasgow?

    Are there gay cruising grounds in Glasgow?

    Did you know there are many gay cruising and dogging grounds in Glasgow?

    Glasgow and its surrounding areas is home to several cruising and dogging grounds, did that surprise you?

    Whether you love or loathe the idea of anonymous outdoor gay sex, it’s hard to escape the fact that gay cruising grounds are all around us.

    You probably don’t even know, but from where you’re sitting or standing right now there’s probably a cruising or dogging ground just metres away from you in Glasgow, and they’re a hangover from more homophobic times in the UK. At our last count, there were at least six known cruising grounds in Glasgow and surrounding areas. The most popular are Yorkhill Park and Greyfriars Road.

    Interested in all cruising grounds in Scotland? Check out Scottish gay cruising grounds here.

    Why have cruising grounds become more popular?

    Although we can’t say for sure, something has to be said about how the Coronavirus pandemic lockdown has affected the way in which gay, bi and curious men get sex. With saunas and bathhouses closed for the best part of three months, many more are yet to still open, guys who can’t, or don’t want to accommodate in their own homes are looking to other places. One of those will be outdoor venues.

    Where did gay cruising come from?

    Gay cruising is not a new phenomenon. It dates back to when sex between men was illegal in the UK. Finding a place where two men could be intimate with each other without too many questions being raised was tricky until it was realised that men’s public toilets were a perfect place.

    These were named cottages because they actually used to look like quaint little cottages.

    The act of finding sex in these public conveniences became known as “cottaging“.

    The sex between men who would frequent a cottage would usually be anonymous. Gloryholes, a hole drilled between stalls in public toilets became a way in which this sex could remain faceless.

    To this day there are loads of cottages and cruising grounds in Glasgow

    Cottaging and cruising etiquette

    Are there gay cruising grounds in Edinburgh?
    Photo by Ketut Subiyanto on Pexels.com

    Generally speaking, not a lot of talking goes on when cruising. A series of looks and gestures would let others know what you were up to. At urinals, guys would stand, playing with themselves subtly to let others know that they were up for some play. Then if the feeling is mutual the pair could make their way to a cubicle for more privacy.

    At cruising grounds, much of the same would happen, except the action took place away from public footpaths.

    Is Cottaging Legal in the UK?

    Cottaging is illegal in the United Kingdom under the Sexual Offences Act 2003 and applies to both heterosexual and homosexual acts.

    The Sexual Offences Act 2003 doesn’t say however that sex in a public place is illegal. Cruising grounds and cottaging are two different spaces. Cruising grounds are defined as open spaces, where men can hook up with men, or straight couples can meet for sex (often referred to as dogging), as long as no members of the public can see you.

    You risk being arrested if reported by a member of the public. If this happens you have the right to legal advice from an on-duty solicitor at the police station. If convicted you could be sentenced to 6 months in prison and /or a fine.

  • Are there gay cruising grounds in Edinburgh?

    Are there gay cruising grounds in Edinburgh?

    Did you know there are many gay cruising and dogging grounds in Edinburgh?

    Edinburgh is home to several cruising and dogging grounds, did that surprise you?

    Whether you love or loathe the idea of anonymous outdoor gay sex, it’s hard to escape the fact that gay cruising grounds are all around us.

    You probably don’t even know, but from where you’re sitting or standing right now there’s probably a cruising or dogging ground just metres away from you in Edinburgh, and they’re a hangover from more homophobic times in the UK. At our last count, there were at least 7 known cruising grounds in Edinburgh and surrounding areas. The most popular are Sliverknowes Promenade and Blackford Hill.

    Interested in all cruising grounds in Scotland? Check out Scottish gay cruising grounds here.

    Why have cruising grounds become more popular?

    Although we can’t say for sure, something has to be said about how the Coronavirus pandemic lockdown has affected the way in which gay, bi and curious men get sex. With saunas and bathhouses closed for the best part of three months, many more are yet to still open, guys who can’t, or don’t want to accommodate in their own homes are looking to other places. One of those will be outdoor venues.

    Where did gay cruising come from?

    Gay cruising is not a new phenomenon. It dates back to when sex between men was illegal in the UK. Finding a place where two men could be intimate with each other without too many questions being raised was tricky until it was realised that men’s public toilets were a perfect place.

    These were named cottages because they actually used to look like quaint little cottages.

    The act of finding sex in these public conveniences became known as “cottaging“.

    The sex between men who would frequent a cottage would usually be anonymous. Gloryholes, a hole drilled between stalls in public toilets became a way in which this sex could remain faceless.

    To this day there are loads of cottages and cruising grounds in Edinburgh

    Cottaging and cruising etiquette

    Are there gay cruising grounds in Edinburgh?
    Photo by Ketut Subiyanto on Pexels.com

    Generally speaking, not a lot of talking goes on when cruising. A series of looks and gestures would let others know what you were up to. At urinals, guys would stand, playing with themselves subtly to let others know that they were up for some play. Then if the feeling is mutual the pair could make their way to a cubicle for more privacy.

    At cruising grounds, much of the same would happen, except the action took place away from public footpaths.

    Is Cottaging Legal in the UK?

    Cottaging is illegal in the United Kingdom under the Sexual Offences Act 2003 and applies to both heterosexual and homosexual acts.

    The Sexual Offences Act 2003 doesn’t say however that sex in a public place is illegal. Cruising grounds and cottaging are two different spaces. Cruising grounds are defined as open spaces, where men can hook up with men, or straight couples can meet for sex (often referred to as dogging), as long as no members of the public can see you.

    You risk being arrested if reported by a member of the public. If this happens you have the right to legal advice from an on-duty solicitor at the police station. If convicted you could be sentenced to 6 months in prison and /or a fine.

  • Does bottoming make you poop uncontrollably?

    Does bottoming make you poop uncontrollably?

    Here’s the thing. Your sphincter is a muscle and like any muscle it needs working out to remain healthy and strong.

    The”sphincter” refers to a ring-like muscle that normally maintains constriction of a natural body passage or orifice and that can relax or contract as necessary. Sphincters are found throughout the body and play various roles in controlling the passage of substances. The one we’re talking about is in your anus – and stops you from pooing yourself.

    It’s always in the back of your mind when you’re bottoming. I know you’re asking yourself, “Will the pounding I receive today, be the forever loosening of my butthole?” Yes, there are the jokes about being loose and there’s even *that* myth that gay men who bottom end up having to use tampons –

    The answer is relatively simple.

    Keep that booty in a healthy condition and no it won’t lead to a lifetime of pooping uncontrollably.

    If you bottom, you won't start pooing yourself, as long as you look after your butthole.

    So how can you keep your booty in good working order?

    Strengthening the sphincter muscles, particularly the pelvic floor muscles, can be important for various reasons, such as improving bladder or bowel control.

    Here are some exercises that can help target and strengthen these muscles, especially if you enjoy anal sex.

    1. Kegel Exercises:
      • Kegel exercises are a common way to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which include the muscles around the anus.
      • To do Kegel exercises, contract the muscles you would use to stop the flow of urine. Hold the contraction for a few seconds and then release. Repeat this several times in a row.
    2. Pelvic Floor Exercises:
      • Lie down on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
      • Tighten the muscles around your anus and urethra as if you are trying to lift them upwards.
      • Hold the contraction for a few seconds and then relax.
      • Repeat these contractions, gradually increasing the duration of the hold as your muscles become stronger.
    3. Biofeedback:
      • Biofeedback therapy involves using electronic sensors to provide feedback on muscle activity. This can help you identify and isolate the muscles you want to target.
      • Working with a pelvic floor physical therapist can be beneficial for personalized biofeedback training.
    4. Squats:
      • Squats can engage the muscles of the pelvic floor. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and lower your body into a squatting position. Keep your back straight and chest up.
    5. Bridge Exercise:
      • Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
      • Lift your hips off the floor, creating a straight line from your shoulders to your knees.
      • Squeeze your glutes and engage your pelvic floor muscles during the lift.
    6. Yoga and Pilates:
      • Certain yoga and Pilates exercises focus on core strength and can engage the pelvic floor muscles. Consider incorporating these into your fitness routine.

    It’s important to note that these exercises should be done with proper form, and it’s advisable to start with a level of intensity that matches your current fitness level. If you have any concerns or existing health conditions, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or a pelvic floor physical therapist before starting a new exercise routine.

    Consistency is key, and it may take some time to notice improvements. If you’re unsure about the best approach for your specific situation, seeking guidance from a healthcare professional is crucial.

  • GAY HOROSCOPES: 18th December 2023

    GAY HOROSCOPES: 18th December 2023

    Is love, money, success and Christmas joy in your stars this week?

    Aries (March 21 – April 19):

    This week, you may feel a surge of energy and confidence. Focus on your goals and take bold steps toward achieving them. In matters of the heart, be open to new connections and experiences.

    Taurus (April 20 – May 20):

    Take a practical approach to your endeavors this week. Pay attention to your financial matters and avoid unnecessary risks. In relationships, communicate openly and honestly to strengthen your connections.

    Gemini (May 21 – June 20):

    Your communication skills are highlighted this week. Use them to express your ideas and connect with others. In relationships, be flexible and open-minded to foster understanding.

    Cancer (June 21 – July 22):

    Focus on your emotional well-being this week. Take time for self-care and reflect on your needs. In relationships, be supportive and understanding, and nurture the bonds that matter most to you.

    Leo (July 23 – August 22):

    You may experience a burst of creativity and inspiration. Use this energy to pursue your passions. In matters of the heart, express your feelings and make time for romance.

    Virgo (August 23 – September 22):

    This week, pay attention to your home and family life. Create a harmonious environment and address any domestic concerns. In relationships, be patient and understanding.

    Libra (September 23 – October 22):

    Focus on your social connections and collaborations this week. Networking can bring exciting opportunities. In relationships, strive for balance and compromise.

    Scorpio (October 23 – November 21):

    This week, delve into deeper aspects of your interests and projects. Trust your instincts and explore new avenues. In relationships, be honest and share your true self with your partner.

    Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21):

    Embrace your adventurous spirit this week. Seek new experiences and expand your horizons. In matters of the heart, be open to spontaneity and enjoy the journey.

    Capricorn (December 22 – January 19):

    Focus on your career and ambitions this week. Take practical steps toward your goals. In relationships, communicate your aspirations and support your partner’s endeavors.

    Aquarius (January 20 – February 18):

    This week, explore new ideas and engage in stimulating conversations. Embrace your unique perspective. In relationships, be open-minded and value the diversity that your partner brings to your life.

    Pisces (February 19 – March 20):

    Pay attention to your intuition and emotions this week. Take time for self-reflection and spiritual pursuits. In relationships, connect on a deeper level and share your dreams and aspirations.