Swing÷er (according to Merriam-Webster Dictionary)
Pronunciation: Function: noun: one that swings: specifically as a lively up-to-date person who indulges in what is considered fashionable or one who engages freely in sex.
Let’s talk about the latter, I’m already fashionable.
Swinging might seem like an unfamiliar concept that surfaces occasionally as a topic in the media like “Nip/Tuck” or in “The Ice Storm.” But swingin,’ also called “the lifestyle,” is more popular than you might think. There are more than 3,000 swinging clubs worldwide and the United States has a large association, NASCA, that organizes conferences, membership and group holidays. Hardcore swingers even deem the lifestyle a classifiable subculture. It’s a synch to find a swinger through personal ads, Internet sites or lifestyle magazines.
So what is swinging exactly? According to “A Modern Guide to Swinging” on sexuality.org, swinging is “a form of recreational social sex between consenting adults, most commonly consisting of male/female couples meeting other male/female couples for sex and/or ongoing intimate friendships.”
Swinging generally refers to heterosexual couples; however, bisexuality among women is widely accepted in the swinging community, more than bisexual men.
Swinging activities do not always consist of watching your partner getting banged. It can include flirting, kissing, “heavy petting,” oral sex or the fore mentioned penetrative sex with someone other than your partner. Some partners insist on being around when these other activities are happening while others prefer not to witness it.
The lifestyle is renowned for their parties and clubs. Club Nympho’s in Baton Rouge and Colette’s in New Orleans are just a few. To join these clubs, you just have to fill out an application and pay the membership fee. Some swing clubs do not allow single males every night or at all, but most readily accept single females with discounted rates.
Going to a swinging party should be treated as any other social event. Most parties are BYOB. There is usually a host who will show you the in’s and out’s such as party rules and etiquette. At clubs and house parties, it is pretty common for people to wear “sexy” clothing or nothing at all. Pay attention to whether there is a theme. Imagine the embarrassment of not dressing as a Leather Daddy only to be surrounded by sparkling Faeries.
Couples generally stick together for a while, and some even have codes. For example, you could tug your ear if you are attracted to the person you are talking and are interested in swinging with them, or maybe one of you is not having a good time, so you throw the deuce. You do not have to be married to attend swinger events with your partner, but you should have a good understanding of where your relationship stands. Important questions to ask if you or your partner is interested in the lifestyle are: Do you feel comfortable at the thought of seeing your partner being intimate with another person? Do you trust yourself and your partner? Are you alright with stopping if your partner wants to? Have you considered the possible health implications? Are you committed to your relationship?
Communication is crucial for any couple thinking about swinging. For those ready to expand from the one man, one woman union principle, the versatility of swinging is endless as long as you both understand what you are doing and why. Sex can complicate things if you do not put your partner’s needs first.
If you or your partner is not completely ready, just rent a porn. Never start swinging to help a troubled relationship. Everything will become a big mess, and I will not have any answers for you, my friend.
 
Laura is a communication studies senior. Contact her at lwilkinson@lsureveille.com