Kiteboarding Is An Easy Sport, But Like All Sports, Skills Must Be Learned
Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4
Since riding anything behind a kite requires mostly kite control, the first step in becoming a “kiter” is to become proficient in flying a power kite. Start by purchasing the trainer power kite and practice all the exercises your certified instructor teaches you. In doing so, this will actually help you get used to the power on land and learn to control the kite safely and skillfully before you fly those full-sized kites.
Unlike many other sports, kiteboarding has a uniquely short learning curve. That’s not to say you’ll pick it up in a few hours or just a few days.There is a precise method to learning this sport. However, done in the right order with the right guidance, you can really speed up your progression and expect to feel very comfortable within just a few months.
Kiteboarding is just one of many kite sports.
It stems from power kiting, and kiteboards are just one of several vehicles you can use with a kite (vehicles can include water boards, ground boards, buggies, snow boards / skis, or simply your feet). As you begin to learn the ropes in power kiting, you will soon realize that you will become the pilot of a single wing that can lift and pull you. When you break it down, kite sports require 80% kite control & 20% vehicle balance. But first, before dragging your self around on something, you must learn the basics: how to control your kite.
We like to compare learning kiteboarding to driving. It’s critical you learn how to drive the “go-cart” before taking out the “Ferrari” for a spin down the highway. For example, when driving, you’re eyes are focused on the road, letting your hands and feet control the steering wheel and engine without looking at them. The same holds true in power kiting … it’s critical your focus is on the environment around you, not on the kite or control bar.
Kite control must become second nature.
Irregardless of your athletic skills, the need to focus on becoming proficient in flying these power kites is a must. This means mastering basic control till you are doing vehicle simulation exercises blind.
To get started, purchase a small lower powered kite sized to your body weight and athletic background (see the trainer kite myth for help). You’ll then practice all the exercises your certified instructor reviews with you. Doing so will help you learn proper kite control techniques and theories safely and skillfully. Be prepared to put in a minimum of 15-25 flight hours. Many people living away from beaches often do a remote training course before heading to the coast for a kiteboarding lesson.
Once you’re extremely comfortable with power kite control, you’re then ready to take a rigging and safety lesson. While the most boring part of the training process, this critical knowledge is second only to kite control. And honestly, you can’t have one without the other.
control + safety = time for board !
With your homework out of the way and you kite skills in place, you’re ready for an “on-the-board” class (i.e., kiteboarding, snow kiting, kite ground boarding, etc.). If you’ve mastered kite control, you’ll have a 90% success rate. This means you’ll be able to get up and ride short distances after this third and final lesson.
Ready to ride . .
Once you’ve been schooled and have practiced the homework, then it’s time to get gear and get riding. When moving beyond lessons, we highly encourage you consider these two facts:
1- Don’t believe the hype. Kiteboarding manufacturers often market their kites, boards, harness, & safety systems as the best. You’ll often hear you only need one kite for any condition. We highly suggest researching what’s best for you with you local shop and by chatting with seasoned kiters.
2- You get what you pay for. As with most things in life, go with budget and you’ll sacrifice quality, performance, and safety. While the intial expense in kiteboarding is high, it tends to be much cheaper than other sports over time.
Want to know more?
Like any sport, safety comes first. Power kites, their lines and control equipment must be used responsibly. Taking lessons from a certified / insured kiteboarding school will get you riding quickly & safely. Contact air’s creditable kiteboarding school to help guide you through the learning curve. In the meantime, see our kiter’s progression chart (below) to help show what skills and timelines you can expect during training.