Lesson Page   (1)  (2)  (3)  (4)

Starting on the board:

   Remember to head for the water as soon as the kite is in the air. Minimize risk to yourself and others by getting to the water as soon as the kite is airborne ....this is not the time to hang out on the beach with the kite.

   When in the water squat in the water (with kite in harness) and balance the kite high above you in the window. Sometimes its necessary to keep the kite moving gently back and forth to keep the kite from flying over head and dropping out of the sky. Position the board in front of you and get your feet in the straps.

   We recommend beginners to at this point stay out of the harness hook and then dive the kite into the more powered zone of the window ...in the same direction you want to head riding.

   If there is not enough wind or power to keep you up out of the water, once you dive the kite- continually move the kite up and down. This is commonly called “working” the kite.

   Once you ride ....or drag in a certain direction for a while- be aware of your distance and stay close to shore. Remember when you come back that at first you will be continually heading down wind. Make sure there is a safe landing area you can get to.

Stopping on the board:

   Slowly ....and this is key -slowly lift the kite to the high position in the window. There is less pull on you the rider here. Even when traveling fast and getting out of control- slowly lift the kite and lean back/edge until you begin to slow down. If you lift the kite high quickly....you too will most likely be taking an air flight.

   Bend your knees and crouch in to the water once about to stop.

   Use the safety release at this time if you need to put the kite down and there is no one there to help.

   Make sure there is ample room when you are preparing to stop or land a kite. This is crucial! Landing and launching are where most accidents happen. Stay clear of bystanders!

   Once through the initial few days of getting wrecked by the kite an power, kiteboarding quickly becomes the most addictive drug you’ve ever experienced. And the amazing thing is there is always something new to try and learn....from beginner to advanced. Have fun rippin’ it up!