The waterstart is one of the most essential skills to master in windsurfing, especially when you’re learning to get up on the board after falling off. Once you’ve learned to sail and control your board, being able to efficiently execute the waterstart will help you maintain speed, reduce downtime, and get back into action quickly. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to master this technique.
1. Understand the Basics of a Waterstart
The waterstart is the process of lifting yourself from the water onto your windsurfing board without needing to uphaul the sail (which is a method used by beginners when the sail is on the water). This technique is particularly useful when you’re sailing in deeper water and want to avoid dragging the sail through the water.
Key concepts for the waterstart:
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The wind should be coming from a consistent direction.
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Your harness lines will be attached to the board.
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The sail should be angled to catch the wind, providing enough pull for you to rise.
2. Positioning the Board and Sail
Before attempting the waterstart, ensure that your board is in the correct position:
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Keep the board perpendicular to the wind (with the nose pointing into the wind).
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The sail should be downwind of the board to reduce drag.
Once you’re in the water:
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Grab the boom with both hands and align your body with the board.
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Position the sail at a 45-degree angle to the water so the wind catches the sail, allowing you to lift yourself.
3. Preparing to Pull Yourself Up
Here’s how to position your body for the waterstart:
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Position the board horizontally with your feet outstretched behind you. The footstrap nearest to you should be in line with your back foot.
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Use the harness lines to connect to the board and use them for leverage when pulling yourself up.
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Keep the sail close to the water’s surface, ensuring it’s angled slightly so it catches the wind.
4. The Pull-Up Technique
This is where the real magic happens:
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Pull the boom towards you and start to lift your body with your arms. The wind will naturally start pulling the sail, creating tension in the lines and allowing you to get upright.
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Kick your legs (particularly the back one) to push the board into a more horizontal position while simultaneously pulling your body upwards.
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As the board gets closer to the surface, keep your feet ready to step onto the footstraps. You’ll want to place your back foot first, then bring your front foot forward to balance yourself on the board.
5. Get Into the Right Stance
Once you’re up, the next step is to find your balance:
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Place your feet into the footstraps to increase stability and control. This will help you get more power from the sail.
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Stand upright with your knees slightly bent to keep your body centered and balanced.
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Pull on the boom gently to accelerate and get more power, and adjust your sail’s angle to match the wind direction for smoother movement.
6. Practice the Waterstart in Calm Conditions
Before tackling challenging conditions, start in light to moderate winds and calm waters. This will give you the opportunity to get used to the movements without worrying about strong gusts or choppy waters. Practice in shallow areas to avoid long swims.
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Incorrect angle of the sail: If the sail is too flat or too much into the wind, you won’t be able to generate enough power to lift yourself.
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Not pulling hard enough on the boom: If you don’t use enough strength when pulling the boom toward you, the sail won’t generate enough power to get you up.
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Stiff body: Keep your body relaxed and your knees bent to improve your balance and response to the board’s movement.
8. Key Tips for Success
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Use the wind: The waterstart is all about using the wind to your advantage. Wait for a gust or consistent wind to pull the sail and give you the lift you need.
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Practice in different conditions: Over time, practice in various wind and water conditions to improve your timing and technique.
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Watch videos of others: Seeing how experienced windsurfers execute their waterstarts can provide valuable insights into timing and body positioning.
9. Build Strength and Flexibility
The waterstart requires both physical strength and flexibility. Strengthening your upper body and core will help you pull yourself up with ease. Core exercises like planks, leg raises, and swimming can improve your overall body strength, making the waterstart easier. Flexibility training, particularly in your back and shoulders, will allow you to get the most out of the motion and reduce strain.
Conclusion
Mastering the waterstart is an important milestone in windsurfing. It can be challenging at first, but with consistent practice and proper technique, you’ll find it easier to get back on the board quickly after a fall. Focus on your body position, harness control, and sail angle to gain confidence and power. With patience and perseverance, you’ll soon be waterstarting like a pro!
