Freestyle windsurfing is a dynamic and thrilling discipline that combines the power of the wind with the skill of performing various tricks and maneuvers. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, there are countless tricks to master in freestyle windsurfing, each requiring different levels of technique and commitment. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most exciting freestyle windsurfing tricks you can learn to elevate your performance and impress onlookers.
1. Basic Jibe (or Tack)
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Focus: Turning, board control, balance
The jibe is one of the most fundamental freestyle windsurfing moves. It involves turning the board downwind while shifting the sail and rider’s weight to the other side of the board. The jibe is an essential move to learn because it allows you to change directions smoothly while maintaining your speed.
To perform a jibe, start by approaching the wind at a slight angle, then as you prepare to turn downwind, shift your weight towards the back of the board. As you move your feet, gently move the sail across your body. The key to executing a smooth jibe is controlling the sail’s power and keeping the board stable as you change direction.
Mastering the jibe opens the door to other advanced freestyle tricks and helps build confidence for more challenging maneuvers.
2. Duck Tack
Level: Intermediate
Focus: Sail handling, footwork, balance
The duck tack is a more advanced version of the basic tack, and it’s a popular move in freestyle windsurfing. It involves spinning the sail to change direction while remaining in control and maintaining momentum. Unlike the standard tack, in the duck tack, the rider ducks under the sail while performing the turn. This move looks impressive and adds flair to your windsurfing skills.
To perform a duck tack, begin by turning downwind, like you would for a regular tack. As you approach the turn, move your hands down and under the sail while keeping your body low. At the same time, shift your weight and your feet to the other side of the board. The sail needs to rotate quickly during the maneuver, and you should aim to keep the board steady and fluid throughout the turn.
3. Forward Loop
Level: Advanced
Focus: Air control, rotation, speed
The forward loop is one of the most thrilling tricks in freestyle windsurfing. It involves launching into the air and rotating 360 degrees forward while staying in control of the board and sail. This trick requires precise timing, speed, and a solid understanding of how to generate lift from the wind.
To perform a forward loop, build up speed while heading into the wind. As you approach the jump, bend your knees and pull the sail towards you to generate upward lift. Throw yourself into the wind while keeping your body compact to initiate the rotation. Once in the air, rotate 360 degrees and prepare for the landing, ensuring you land on the windward side of the board.
The forward loop is a high-speed, adrenaline-pumping trick that, once mastered, will take your windsurfing skills to the next level.
4. Air Jibe
Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Focus: Jumping, turning, board control
The air jibe is a combination of jumping and jiving, and it’s one of the coolest tricks to perform in freestyle windsurfing. It involves jumping into the air while simultaneously turning the board 180 degrees downwind and landing on the other side. The air jibe is a bit trickier than a standard jibe because it requires you to gain enough height to turn in mid-air while keeping the sail controlled.
To perform an air jibe, approach the jibe at speed and get the board slightly off the water by applying pressure on the back foot. Once you are in the air, rotate the board downwind while pulling the sail over your head. Make sure your feet are ready to land the board in the new direction, maintaining balance and control. The key to this trick is timing, balance, and keeping your body relaxed while in the air.
5. Spock
Level: Advanced
Focus: Spin, power, sail control
The Spock is one of the most popular freestyle tricks in windsurfing, often performed in wave conditions. This move involves spinning the board 360 degrees while keeping the sail and the rider’s body under control. It’s a trick that looks more complicated than it actually is once you master the steps.
To perform a Spock, you first need to build up speed. As you approach the maneuver, lean back and pull the sail towards you. This will allow the board to pivot underneath you. The next step is to rotate the board 360 degrees while pulling the sail across your body. The trick is to keep your body low to the water, maintaining a good grip on the sail while focusing on controlling the board throughout the spin.
6. Double Forward Loop
Level: Expert
Focus: Air control, rotation, skill, and commitment
The double forward loop is one of the most intense and difficult freestyle windsurfing maneuvers. As the name suggests, it involves performing two consecutive forward loops back-to-back. This trick is considered a milestone in freestyle windsurfing, and only the most experienced riders are able to execute it.
To perform the double forward loop, build up speed and approach the jump like you would for a standard forward loop. When you get air, pull hard on the sail and initiate the first loop. As you’re coming out of the first loop, prepare for the second rotation, staying compact and controlled. It requires quick thinking and solid aerial control to execute two loops in quick succession.
This maneuver is often seen in professional freestyle events and demonstrates an extreme level of windsurfing ability.
7. Shaka
Level: Advanced
Focus: Sail handling, style, power
The Shaka is a flashy trick that involves spinning the board and throwing the sail behind the rider while maintaining control of the windsurfing gear. The move combines a high level of style and power with solid technique.
To perform a Shaka, approach the maneuver by building up speed and preparing to spin the board. As you reach the right moment, use your back foot to pivot the board while pulling the sail over your head and behind you. Make sure to keep your body low to maintain balance and finish the trick by landing smoothly. The Shaka is a great way to show off both your technical and stylistic abilities.
Conclusion
Freestyle windsurfing offers a wide variety of exciting tricks for riders of all skill levels. Whether you’re just starting out or are ready to take on the most advanced maneuvers, there’s always something new to learn and challenge yourself with. From the basic jibe to the extreme double forward loop, these tricks will not only improve your windsurfing abilities but also add a whole new level of excitement to your sessions on the water. Keep practicing, stay committed, and most importantly—have fun as you progress through the amazing world of freestyle windsurfing!
