Beginner’s Guide to Riding a Wakeboard
Riding a wakeboard is easy to start but hard to master. A few simple steps will have you out and riding in no time.
Preparation
It is easy to distinguish between a wakeboard suitable for beginners or a wakeboard for advanced users. As a beginner you will want to purchase a wakeboard that has tips on both ends which is known as a “twin tip” board.
Another consideration is the length of the pull rope that you will be using behind your boat. Typically a 50 inch rope is best for beginners. Another consideration to make is how much the rope stretches. If it stretches it is good for waterskiing but it is not optimal for wakeboarding. In other words, do not recycle your waterskiing rope, you want to have the best experience possible as a first time waterboarder.
Stance Determination
Are you a fan of other boardsports? Then the words goofy stance (right foot forward) and regular stance (left foot forward) look familiar to you. If not, no problem, there is an easy test you can perform under a minute with no equipment. Simply slide on a slippery surface. Take note of which foot you have put in front of yourself first, this is the foot that will go forward in your stance.
Your First Ride
Make sure you have taken proper safety precautions. It is recommended to wear a lifejacket. You should also establish signals with the driver for speed up, slow down, and start.
Starting stance is an essential piece to learn. Float on your back with your lifejacket. You wakeboard should be perpendicular to the boat. Make sure you knees are bent and your arms are on either side of your lead knee.
As the boat starts, relax, let the force of the boat pull you into position with your lead foot first. Keep the nose of the board out of the water as this happens. Remember that as this is wakeboarding you should be facing to the side. As you are getting comfortable standing, ease some of your weight onto your back foot.
Enjoy your ride!
Feel free to contact us about any of your wakeboard or wakeboard rope needs.