When I did anal for the first time with both my ex and Gsk we didn't do any kind of gradual things, it was just lube and go. Well with the ex there was no lube and it was a horrible painful experience. With Gsk there was a lot of foreplay, and at my request when I was ready, we used alot of lube and went slow. And it changed from one bad experience to one of immense pleasure. So I think if you have the chance for preparation the beginners kits are a great idea. We just never used them.