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Kite Surfing Tutorial

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By Catherine Rees
Kite Surfing

MorgueFile.com: spiess

Kite surfing is an extreme sport that became popular in the United States in the late 1990s. The equipment consists of a small board similar to a wakeboard and a large kite. Surfers learn elaborate maneuvers and tricks that take them up to 40 feet over the ocean. Though it can be a dangerous sport, many kite surfers can't resist the adrenaline rush.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging
Things You'll Need:
  • Kitesurfing kite Kitesurfing board Wetsuit Helmet Life vest Goggles
  • Kitesurfing kite
  • Kitesurfing board
  • Wetsuit
  • Helmet
  • Life vest
  • Goggles
Step 1
Find your equipment. You will need a kitesurfing board, a kite and clothing. Your clothing should be streamlined so that it will fit underneath the kitesurfing gear. You will want a wetsuit unless you are surfing in warm waters during the summer months. You can find equipment packages at surf shops, or purchase used equipment from other kite surfers.
Step 2
Learn about your equipment. Familiarize yourself with the kite and gear before going out on the water.
Step 3
Learn kitesurfing safety. You should be familiar with basic water safety and be a strong swimmer. Learn international hand signals and lifeguard techniques.
Step 4
Practice board technique. If you do not already have extensive experience with surfing or wake boarding, you will want to try these sports first to gain the balance and manipulation you will need to kitesurf.
Step 5
Fly your kite. Get comfortable with the power of your kite while still on land. Depending on the style of your kite, you will learn to release specific lines in order to control the projected surface. You will also learn how to increase and decrease speed by controlling the power of the kite.
Step 6
Steer the board. Practice footwork on land before surfing. Get used to manipulating the board with your feet, and know how to turn the board.
Step 7
Kitesurf. Learn the basics before trying tricks. Keep your body upright with your knees slightly bent. Hold on to the bar, and launch the kite. Be prepared to take off quickly. Work on controlling the kite and manipulating the board.
Step 8
Learn a basic jump. Maintain a comfortable speed, then begin to reel the kite in so that your board begins to lift. Turn the kite sharply, and use your back foot to bring the board into a 60-degree angle while pushing upward. Crouch with your knees bent, and keep them bent to prepare for the landing. Keep the board slightly tilted to reduce impact.

Tips & Warnings

 
It is recommended that you take lessons from a qualified kitesurfing instructor, especially if you are very new to water sports.
 
Do not surf in stormy conditions or with strong winds. Always wear safety equipment, such as a life vest, goggles or glasses and a helmet. Practice basic skills before attempting tricks or difficult maneuvers.
 
Do not surf in stormy conditions or with strong winds.
 
Always wear safety equipment, such as a life vest, goggles or glasses and a helmet.
 
Practice basic skills before attempting tricks or difficult maneuvers.

About The Author

Catherine Rees lives in a log cabin near Salt Lake City, Utah. She has six years of experience as a freelance writer. Though she specializes in wildlife and outdoor activities, her work also includes topics in relationships, gardening and travel. She has a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Utah and writes for Trails.com, GardenGuides.com, eHow.com and HubPages.com.
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