An Insight into the Daring and Exciting Sport of Kite Surfing

By Jon Polk

The reason for Kiteboarding gaining so much of attention could be due to the double thrill it provides namely flying as well as boarding. It's basically a water sport in which the rider travels through water, balancing on a board controlled by a huge kite which moves according to the wind.

Before attempting this sport, you need to become proficient in flying a kite. As a first step, get a trainer kite which will help you master the speed and the controls. But it doesn't stop here, learning to balance yourself on a surf board is absolutely essential. Finding a learning school is not a big deal these days with the sport gaining so much popularity. Once you enroll, you will be taught the various ins and outs of the sport like launching, landing etc and also the most important aspect- proper usage of safety devices.

Today, sophisticated technology has devised quality control systems and safety release equipment which ensures a high percentage of safety. The surfer hops onto a board which could be equipped with foot bindings according to his choice, and uses a huge controllable kite surf kite which pushes him along the waters.

You will learn from experts and instructors that the size of the kite should be in accordance with the force of the wind at the time you choose to kite surf. Preferably, a bigger kite should be used when the winds are low and smaller ones will help to navigate stronger winds, though a great deal of practice is required to acquire the necessary balance. Have you given enough thought to how much it's going to cost you to learn the sport as well as buy the necessary gear? In fact it's better to work out correctly, the costs involved and find places where reasonable prices are quoted. Life jackets, helmets, board harnesses, kite pumps etc are available in different ranges, so select one with good quality at a fair price.

Finding a place to kite surf is no more a difficulty, since the sport has gained popularity in almost every part of the world. So you can be assured that your favorite holiday spot will most probably have the necessary facilities for learning as well. The two main types of kites, now in use are the Foil Kites and the Inflatable variety. Of these the inflatable ones are recommended because they are easy to control during landing and launching.

Learning this sport can indeed be a bit heavy on the pocket. Enrolling in a learning school will require a substantial fee plus the kite surfing equipment does not come cheap. Costly gear like life jacket, helmet, kite pump, board harness etc. has to be compulsorily used. But local people may be able to help you find the gear at reasonable prices, keep a check on the quality though.

Kite surfing is indeed an interesting sport to pursue, even as a hobby. But never go slack on the safety measures involved. The wind is an unpredictable force therefore, be alert every little second and try to master upwind as well as downwind conditions. Keeping this in mind, go ahead and find a learning school to teach you the basics and muster up enough courage and self confidence to try out this exhilarating sport! - 31498

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