So you’ve heard about that awesome sport called Kitesurfing? Or maybe you’ve seen kites flying at the beach and some people jumping high over the water? Have you wondered if you too, could do that? Well here is the good news, anybody can learn to kitesurf. And I am going to share with you all the things you need to know to get you started!
What is Kitesurfing?
Kitesurfing is a very complete activity, a perfect mix between wakeboard, snowboard, windsurfing, surfing, paragliding and gymnastics all that turned into one extreme watersport. Once you got the right equipment, all you need is wind blowing! The wind will propel you out of the water and make you ride the ocean while supported by your kiteboard. And jump if you want to! Sounds good right?
Let’s Get Started!
As I said, anybody can learn, so whether you are 10 or 75 years old, man or woman, you can enjoy this awesome sport. As long as you know how to swim a little and have no medical restrictions for that sport, you can go for it! Don’t be scared, contrary to what people think, you do not have to be really fit or strong, and girls make great kitesurfers too by the way!
Now, unlike other sports that you can teach yourself, kitesurfing is a sport that requires professional supervision by a qualified kitesurf instructor. You cannot just buy equipment, go to the beach and try to learn on your own… Remember this is an extreme sport and for your own safety and the safety of other innocent beach goers, you need to learn to kitesurf in a responsible way.
Now, unlike other sports that you can teach yourself, kitesurfing is a sport that requires professional supervision by a qualified kitesurf instructor. You cannot just buy equipment, go to the beach and try to learn on your own… Remember this is an extreme sport and for your own safety and the safety of other innocent beach goers, you need to learn to kitesurf in a responsible way.
Take Lessons
You will need an average of 10 hours lessons before you’re able to kitesurf on your own. The school will provide you with all the training equipment, you just need to come with your board shorts/bikini, sunscreen and smile on!
Average cost will be around 2,500 AED for private lessons and 2,000 AED for semi private. At first, prices may seem expensive, but trust me, investing in a few lessons is in your best interest and will be money well spent, as you’ll not only become a safer kitesurfer, but you’ll also learn much quicker.
Equipment
Once you’ve completed your lessons or even during your lessons, you can consider buying your own gear. In this way, you can practise on your equipment while still under the supervision of your instructor. You will need at least one kite with a bar, a kiteboard, a harness and a pump. Speak to your instructor who can advise you on the different types of kites and the best size to buy depending on for your weight and local weather conditions. Our school uses the best and latest equipment from Naish and Prolimit – brands made for kitesurfing and all other watersports.
Voila! That’s all you need to know for now… So, if you feel you are ready to discover a sport that will bring you pleasure, will make you look super cool and keep you fit and tanned at the same time don’t look any further! Trust me when I say this: once you have started kitesurfing, you become addicted to it for life!
Words by: Christelle Schaal
