Kitesurfing Beginners Guide: 10 essentials

Kitesurfing Beginners Guide: 10 essentials

1. What is kitesurfing?

A kite and a board are used in the wind-powered water sport of kitesurfing to help you move across the water. Contrary to what the name suggests, kitesurfing may be done in mirror-flat lagoons as well as in rough waters or on large waves. You only need water and wind.

Kitesurfing offers a lot of enjoyment and opportunity for advancement. You can start moving faster, leaping, performing freestyle tricks, surfing waves, and going on lengthy “downwinders” along the coast once you’ve learned the fundamentals of riding along and keeping upwind.

2. Do I need to be very fit to start kitesurfing?

To kitesurf, you don’t have to be particularly fit. You don’t need a lot of muscle strength either because the gear is light. A general level of fitness will help you advance more quickly, give you more endurance on the water, and prevent injuries.

3. How many lessons do I have to take before I’m independent?

The majority of people require between 6 and 10 hours, or a series of around three classes, to get up and ride. Some students require longer instruction, while others may become independent in a single day with the correct one-on-one coaching and prior board-riding expertise (such as wakeboarding or windsurfing).

4. Do I really need lessons?

The answer is a definite yes. Anyone who respects kitesurfing will concur that taking beginner lessons is imperative. A qualified instructor will teach you vital safety measures and knowledge in addition to having you up and riding as quickly as feasible. You pose a risk to everyone on the beach and in the water if you don’t know this.

5. Make sure you learn with a qualified instructor.

Well, that’s extremely easy. You can speed up the process of learning to kitesurf by signing up for lessons with experienced instructors. Additionally, you can save a ton of time and money by taking this shortcut. A coach who has extensive pre- and post-qualification experience will be better able to guide you securely and effectively.

The coach should also truly care about people; otherwise, they won’t be able to provide you the care, consideration, and confidence boost that new kiters require. If you’re unsure, get advice from friends or fellow kiters.

6. The more relaxed you are the better you will perform.

While some stress is good for you and can motivate you, too much stress is never a good thing, especially when learning to kitesurf. Relax, and trust your instructor! You need to feel the kite to steer it properly and relax your muscles.

Tense muscles will block the blood flow to your hands, making it difficult to feel and react appropriately. Breathing exercises are also implemented during lessons to aid the learning process and help the student relax while going through all the progressions.

7. What equipment do you need for lessons?

Any reputable kite school or instructor will provide the kit for the learning process. They will offer a wide selection of kites, boards, and safety gear to suit you in a variety of wind situations.

Consider wearing a rash vest (a lightweight top to protect your arms), a cap, polarized eyeglasses, and waterproof sun protection, especially if you’re learning in the U.A.E.

8. Learning kitesurfing is a step-by-step process.

Learning begins long before getting into the water, sometimes even before setting foot on a beach or setting up a kite. The first few hours will be split between kite control practice mixed in with a bit of theory, either on the beach or while standing in shallow water.

Pay close attention to the first few lessons because it will probably be a big factor that will have a significant impact on your effectiveness and safety later on.

9. How do you know when you’re ready to be independent?

First and foremost, it is important to have a trained instructor sign off on you. Secondly, even if an instructor has given you the go-ahead, you still need to feel ready. It’s always preferable to start with lessons whenever you’re apprehensive or visit a new kitesurfing spot.

The ultimate decision can be discussed between the student and the instructor. If you have gone through all the progressions and still feel uneasy make sure to book some extra lessons or ask a licensed instructor to look over you while renting equipment.

10. What conditions are ideal?

There are several weather conditions where kiteboarding can be enjoyed, but some are better than others. You should look for locations with regular wind direction, wind speed, and comfortable weather for the ideal kiteboarding experience.

Cross-onshore or cross-shore breezes with flat water are often the ideal conditions for kiteboarding. A wind speed of about 10 knots (12 mph or 22 km/h) is considered optimal.

It is recommended for novices to begin kiteboarding in lighter wind conditions and gradually increase to greater winds. The best websites to check if weather conditions are adequate are as follows:

  1. Windguru
  2. Windy
  3. Windfinder
  4. Live U.A.E Weather Stations

 

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