Kitesurfing Equipment
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Kitesurfing Equipment

Lesson 2.3

How can you safely learn new kitesurfing tricks?

Learn new tricks - do it safely

In this article, we'll dive into a question every beginner has (read: should have) after his or her first hard crash. “How can you safely learn new kitesurfing tricks?” The constant pursuit of progression is what makes kiting so addictive, but it is essential to do this responsibly.

We take you by the hand so that you can get on the water safely and in optimal conditions to learn suitable beginner tricks. We conclude with a few very useful links where you can learn new tricks step by step. Let's unlock the next level in your kitesurfing adventure together!

1. Learn new kitesurfing tricks responsibly:

You have made your first meters, your lessons are ready and the water start goes smoothly. You have mastered transitions and you have made your first jumps. The wonderful world of learning new kitesurfing tricks is now waiting for you! But before you try to pull off adrenaline-fueled kiteloops, it's essential to develop a solid foundation of skills. In our opinion, 2 fundamental skills are important here; body dragging and 'self rescue'.

Upwind body dragging, where you move against the wind without a board, you are going to need it really hard. Trust us, you're going to lose your board a lot. Kitesurfing college has a very good tutorial made about.

Also the 'Self-rescue' skills are crucial when you start working on new tricks! Understanding and mastering this basic skill ensures that you can always get out of difficult situations. This way you can work on your new tricks with more confidence and conviction. Learn it here!

2. Under what circumstances can you best learn new kitesurfing tricks:

Learning new tricks in the right circumstances can make the difference between failing terribly or being successful within 1 session! Choose a relatively calm wind (15 to 22 knots) and a spot with flat water to minimize the risks. Avoiding busy areas and choosing a spot that is not too shallow can also reduce the risk of injury. In addition, it is important to familiarize yourself with the wind direction and strength, as these factors significantly influence the performance of tricks. By making smart choices in circumstances, you not only increase your safety, but you also improve the efficiency of your learning process. 

Tip: Use the spot card of the NKV and filter at 'beginner' level.

3. What are good kitesurfing tricks for a beginner:

Now that you know how to safely learn new tricks, it's time for the real work! But which trick should you start with? We will show you which tricks you should try as a beginner. Curious how to perform them? This video explains calmly and clearly step by step how you too can make these tricks your own!

  1. Toeside: In the toeside position, the rider shifts the weight to the toes, making the board perpendicular to the wind. It not only adds extra versatility to your riding style, but is also an essential skill for sailing in various conditions such as a downwinder.
  2. Doll: The pop is a basic move in which the rider jumps off the water quickly and in control. You do not use the power of the kite! Mastering the pop is crucial for performing more advanced ones and is the foundation for high jumps.
  3. Pop to Toeside: This trick combines the pop with the toeside position. Here you make a smooth transition from a regular position to toeside in the air, which demonstrates both control and a smooth kitesurfing style.
  4. Carving Transition: Carving transitions are elegant turns where the rider smoothly changes direction while maintaining control. This move not only looks cool, but also generates a big spray (splashing water) for extra style!
  5. Jump: The jump is a relatively simple but super cool move in which the rider jumps into the air with the help of the kite. Timing and kite control are crucial for achieving height and a smooth landing. This is where you will get your first shot of adrenaline!
  6. Jump+Grab: To add style to the jump, this trick involves grabbing the board while in the air. It requires precise control of your kite and balance of your body.
  7. Jump Transition: This movement combines the stoke of a jump with a transition. When you land your jump, you sail in the opposite direction as before your jump.
  8. Jump Transition Grab: A step beyond the jump transition, this trick involves gripping the board while changing direction in the air.
  9. Downloop Transition: Time for your first run! During the downloop transition you let the kite make a loop while you change sailing direction.
  10. Backroll: The backroll is a basic trick where the rider rotates backwards in the air. This is the first rotation that every kitesurfer learns and is the basis of many advanced tricks.
  11. Double Backroll: As an extension of the backroll, the double backroll involves two full rotations in the air. This requires more height, coordination and balance. 
  12. Backroll Transition: This trick combines the backroll with a smooth transition between directions of travel. It requires precise control of both the kite and the board and adds flair to your kitesurfing style.
  13. Front roll: In the front roll, the rider rotates forward in the air. This makes this trick similar to the backroll. In practice, rotating this way is a bit more difficult, but it does look very cool.
  14. Blind: The blind is an advanced trick in which the rider turns away from the kite during a jump and temporarily rides “blind” with respect to the wind.

4. Useful links

You are now ready to take yourself to a new level! To get the most out of your session, we recommend that you take a look at the links below. These videos take you through the step-by-step process of learning a new trick in a clear and beginner-friendly manner. Attention is also paid to common mistakes. 

 

Kitesurfing college

For the most complete collection of kitesurfing videos, check out the Youtube channel of Kitesurfcollege are. In addition to a paid section for members, there is also a huge range of free videos. He has created a series of 36 videos for beginners. From learning the theory behind the so-called 'wind window' to your first tricks. This channel knows how to find the right balance between clear explanations, educational videos and clear visual aids such as a picture of how to hold your bar. An absolute must for every beginner.

Duotone Academy

Kite brand Duotone has developed a very complete app for learning new tricks. In the Duotone Academy app, tricks are explained per category with text, video and photos. In addition, the app has an active community that provides additional tips & tricks via the included discussion board. Furthermore, you can make a list of tricks that you are practicing. This way you can put together a great training program for yourself and how nice it is to be able to tick off trick by trick!

Get High with Mike

 We recommend it for the more advanced kiter Youtube channel of Get High with Mike warmly recommend! This enthusiastic South African is one of the best-known coaches and is the spiritual father of the Big Air Kite League and above all can explain very well about more advanced kite skills. 

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