How To Windsurf

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  • Windsurfing is a water sport which is practiced both as a recreational activity and a professional sport. It refers to the use of a windsurf board to sail on waves. Windsurfing goes by several names, including sailboarding, boardsailing and wave sailing.

  • Introduction

    Windsurfing involves the use of a windsurf board to sail on waves. While professional windsurfing can involve many types of movements, it's fairly easy to learn the basics of windsurfing.

  • Step 1: What You Need

    There are several items you will need when windsurfing.

    1. You should use a water helmet designed for windsurfing use. This will protect your head and is also required by law in many locations.
    2. You will also need a wet suit, unless the water is very warm where you will be windsurfing.
    3. The windsurfing equipment consist of a board, sail, mast and booms (handles). There are many options for each part.
    4. Boards and sails come in many different sizes, while the options for masts and booms will be mostly regarding material and weight.
    5. Learn about the advantages of different types - some are better for amateurs; others work best for professional windsurfers.
    6. Besides equipment, you will wind of about 15 to 20 knots or higher to be able to surf.

  • Step 2: Preparing

    Before you start windsurfing, there are a few things you need to do to prepare.

    1. Put on your wet suit and helmet.
    2. Assemble the equipment. It's easiest to assemble the booms and mast to the sail and carry out the board separately if the equipment is heavy. You can then attach the board to the sail in the water.
    3. The mast of the sail should be parallel with the board.
    4. The sail should be downwind of the board.

  • Step 3: Getting on the Board

    Now it's time to get onto the board. This can be difficult for newcomers, but there are some tricks so make it easier.

    1. Use the power of the wind to pull you up, instead of using your arms.
    2. Bend your legs as you get on the board, but don't bend your arms.
    3. Step onto the board.
    4. Push the sail forward so it stands up.
    5. Grab the mast with both of your hands. This position is called the safety position.

  • Step 4: Maneuvering

    After getting on the board, it's time to maneuver it to start windsurfing.

    1. You can steer the board in the safety position by tilting the mast.
    2. To do a turn, tilt the mast and move around it as it turns.
    3. In case of an emergency or damage to the sail, you can lie down on the board and paddle with your arms.

  • Conclusion

    To start windsurfing, get a wet suit, helmet, sail, board, mast and boom. Assemble the equipment in the water and climb onto the board. Learn some basic maneuvering movements and when you master these, you can start learning more advanced tricks.

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