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Knowing how to water ski can increase the amount of fun you'll have on your summer vacation. While you can't learn how to water ski without getting into the water, the information on this page can get you started learning how to water ski.
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Step 1: Water Skiing Safety
While water skiing is fun, it can also be dangerous. There are some tips that can help make sure you stay safe while water skiing.- ALWAYS make sure you have a person in the boat whose job is to be the spotter. The boat driver can't safely drive the boat and watch the water skiier at the same time.
- ALWAYS wear a vest that is a Coast Guard approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD).
- NEVER ski in high waves or choppy seas.
- ALWAYS allow 100 feet from any obstacles on either side of the boat, and make sure the water is at least 5-6 feet deep.
- NEVER buzz swimmers, boats, or other water-skiers.
- NEVER water-ski after dark.
- NEVER water-ski when you can be drinking, or are under the influence of legal or illegal drugs.
- ALWAYS agree on hand signals for start, speed up, slow down and stop with the spotter before you start.
Step 2: Water Skiing Equipment
Successfully learning how to water ski requires choosing the right size water ski. Water skis range from 5 to 6 feet long, 6 to 7 inches wide, and 1/2 to 3/4 inches thick. Shorter skis permit more control, allow they don't go as fast, so a beginner should choose a shorter ski. The length of ski that's right for you depends on your weight:
- Children weighing 30-80 pounds should choose a ski 40-52 inches long.
- People weighing 80-150 pounds require a ski 66-67 inches long.
- People weighing 150-200 pounds should choose a ski 68 inches long.
- People weighing over 200 pounds require skis 69-72 inches long.
Step 3: Water Skiing Tips
- To get started, pull your legs in to your chest in a cannon ball position and let the speed of the boat pull you up.
- Keep your arms fully extended; don't bend your elbows.
- Relax your legs.
- Keep your eyes on the boat.
- If you feel like you're in trouble, let go of the rope. Your vest will keep you afloat.
