Windsurfing can be a fun an exhilarating water activity. It can also be intimidating. Take a deep breath and follow this basic tips on how to get started surfing.
- Start by pushing your kit (the board and rig) into water that is deep enough for the fin to be clear of the bottom but shallow enough for you to still be able to stand. Maneuver the board so the sail is facing downwind of the board.
- Mount the board on the upwind side, staying on your knees and grabbing hold of the uphaul. Make sure you don’t pull up the sail yet. And don’t worry if this isn’t the most graceful climb of your life; just focus on getting on the board.
- Stand up slowly and get your balance. Try using a board designed for beginners to make this easier. While bending your knees, pull the sail up from the water with the uphaul, hand over hand like hauling a rope. Keeping your body upright will help to prevent back pain.
- Grab the mast with both hand and let it swing into the safety position, also called the control position. This allows for total control but little power. Practice steering in this position for a while.
- Get moving! Place your lower hand on the boom so the mast is towards the bow. Place your other hand on the boom when you feel ready. At this point, the mast should be perpendicular to the board. Lean back and let the wind pull the board. Have fun!