Kitesurfing

Kitesurfing or kiteboarding is a surface water sport that uses wind power to pull a rider through the water on a small surfboard or a kiteboard. Generally kitesurfing refers to a style of riding known as freestyle or a wake-style, whereas kiteboarding is more “wave-riding” oriented. These two styles usually require different boards and specific performance kites.

The sport is becoming safer due to innovations in kite design, safety release systems, and instructions. Many riding styles have evolved to suit different types of riders and conditions, such as wakestyle, waveriding, freestyle, jumping and cruising.

Kitesurfing Techniques:

Turning: A beginner can turn by putting the kite up into neutral, stopping, sinking backwards into the water, then turning the kite in the opposite direction and starting again

Controlled flying and jumping: Controlled flying is possible and one of the biggest attractions of the sport, but more difficult and dangerous. Flying occurs when the momentum of the surfer pulls the kite. Before jumping, the surfer builds up as much tension as possible by accelerating and strongly edging the board. Then in controlled, straight flight, the kite flown quickly to an overhead position usually just as the surfer goes over the wave.

Board grabs: Are common tricks performed while a rider is jumping or has gained air from popping by grabbing the board in a number of positions with either hand.