Wakeboarding is not something that you will find naturally easy.
Wakeboarding involves aspects of surfing, snowboarding, and waterskiing and makes it into being hauled by a boat with a rope. But don’t let us discourage you; wakeboarding is one of the most thrilling sports, and if your trips take you to Costa Rica, then it’s one of the best (if not the best) places on Earth to learn.
Below are 3 things for beginners to know about wakeboarding.
Learn the Basics of Stance and Balance
Learning the basics is the most tricky part – unless you’re naturally good at balance, we’d be surprised if you can stay upright on your first attempt. Is that a bad thing? Absolutely not! It’s part of the fun.
Understanding your stance and balance goes a long way in wakeboarding. You can start practicing on land to get used to how it feels. That’s how most lessons in Costa Rica will begin – on land. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, with slightly bent knees and even weight distribution over both legs. This position helps provide stability and control during the ride.
Once in the water, you’ll need to perform a deep-water start initially. Lie back, floating, with your board pointing perpendicular to the boat while having your knees up towards your chest. As the boat pulls away, keep your arms straightened out, allowing it to pull you up through the water while maintaining knee flexion and keeping body mass directly over foot soles.
Balance is key (obviously). Too much leaning forward or backward can lead to a loss of control.
Instead of looking down at your feet, keep your head up and posture strong.
Wakeboarding in Different Waters
The type of water that one wakeboards on determines the experience. A day on the safe with added waves is not the same as the calm lake waters. Here’s what you can expect from wakeboarding on different waters.
● Lakes and reservoirs: Most people agree lakes are the best locations for wakeboarding in Costa Rica if you’re a newbie. These bodies tend to be serene most of the time, hence suitable starters who need calmness to find balance.
● Rivers: Wakeboarding in a river brings the challenge of currents. It might be more difficult, but it’s also much more fun. We’d say newbies should only go onto rivers with an instructor.
● The Ocean: For advanced wakeboarders, nothing beats the thrill of riding in the ocean. It’s where things get serious. There will be bigger swells but stronger currents. Wakeboarding on the sea isn’t for newbies.
Take it Slow and Have Fun
Practice makes perfect – relax and have fun! Unless you really are a duck to water, it will take a few lessons to master standing up let alone moving through the water and staying upright. Bear in mind that it’s okay to fall. Wiping out is part of learning, and each fall teaches something new. Get back at it, find the funny side, and keep practicing.
Look for a supportive community or a wakeboarding school where you can learn from experienced riders.
Are you ready to try wakeboarding? You won’t regret it. If nothing else, it’s a fun experience! You’ll find some of the best waters in the world for wakeboarding in Costa Rica.
