Top Watersports to Try This Summer
As summer approaches, it's the perfect time to embrace new adventures and make a splash on the water. If you're seeking excitement and thrills, give wakeboarding, kneeboarding, water skiing, and tubing a shot. These water sports offer a fantastic way to enjoy the summer sun and create lasting memories.
Conquer the Waves - Wakeboarding combines elements of surfing, snowboarding, and water skiing to create an adrenaline-pumping experience. If you’re a beginner, it’s important to keep a few things in mind in order to stay safe:
- Wear a properly fitted life jacket and other protective gear if needed.
- Start with beginner-friendly wakes and gradually progress to more challenging ones.
- Maintain a reasonable speed suitable for your skill level.
- Choose your stance and learn proper body positioning. You may feel more comfortable with either your right or left foot forward. Give both positions a try to determine which works best for you!
- Start by practicing at slower speeds while using a shorter rope. As you gain confidence and skill, you can slowly increase the speed for more of a challenge.
- Communicate with the boat driver and establish hand signals for clear communication.
- Be patient and HAVE FUN! Wakeboarding can be challenging at first. With practice, you’ll be carving through the water in no time.
Water skiing offers a classic and exhilarating way to skim across the water's surface. Here are a few things to keep in mind for a beginner heading out on the water to ski for the first time:
- Wear a well-fitting life jacket and protective gear.
- Choose the appropriate skis based on your weight, skill level and skiing style. Beginner skis are typically wider and more stable, offering better balance and control.
- Practice proper body positioning, keeping your weight balanced and your knees slightly bent.
- Start with a deep-water start technique, holding the handle with both hands.
- Gradually increase your speed and attempt more advanced maneuvers as your skills progress.
- Always maintain a safe distance from other boats and watercraft.
Tubing is a fantastic water activity for individuals of all ages, offering a thrilling ride behind a boat. To ensure the best experience on the water, take a look at the following tips:
- Wear a secure and properly fitted life jacket.
- Choose an appropriate tube size and style based on the number of riders and desired intensity.
- Communicate with the boat driver using clear hand signals.
- Start with gentle rides and gradually increase speed and intensity, keeping in mind the comfort of all riders.
- Be cautious of waves, wakes, and potential obstacles, and always hold on firmly to the handles.
Regardless of the water sport you choose, there are a few general safety practices to keep in mind:
- Always wear a life jacket that is U.S. Coast Guard-approved and properly fitted.
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen and appropriate clothing.
- Be aware of your surroundings and respect any waterway regulations or restrictions.
- Stay informed about weather conditions and avoid water sports during storms or inclement weather.
- Learn proper techniques, take lessons if necessary, and practice regularly to improve your skills and confidence.
This summer, embrace the thrill of wakeboarding, water skiing, and tubing, and create unforgettable memories on the water. By prioritizing safety, wearing the right gear, and following proper techniques for each activity, you can ensure a fun and worry-free experience. So, gather your friends and family, dive into adventure, and enjoy the exhilaration and joy that these water sports offer. Let this summer be your time to try something new and make a splash!
