How to: Surf the skies

Think of kiteboarding as a cross between wakeboarding and parasailing. The kite is similar to a parasail, and the board is similar to a wakeboard. As for the rider? He or she gets the best of both worlds. They speed along the water, catch a wave, and fly over ten meters into the air, doing tricks and spins as they fly. Interested in trying this extreme sport? Here’s some tips on getting started.
First, we must advise that you start with some lessons. After all, this is an extreme sport we’re talking about. You may also want to start with a training kite, just to get the hang of how to control a kite on land before you attach yourself to one and head into the ocean.
Before you set foot in the water, you’ll need the right equipment. This will include a board, control bar, harness, a kite and a friend to spot you. Once you have the proper gear and have done the necessary preparations, you’re ready for launch. Give yourself some room and keep clear of the families enjoying relaxing beach time (if you can; they’ll be crowding you and gawking in no time). Get your kite launched from the beach, especially if you’re a beginner. Then, ensure that all kite lines are flat and stretched, and head about a foot into the ocean. Have a spotter hold your kite handle as you strap into your kite board, then lie on your back in the water.
This is when the excitement starts. The kite will gain power, you’ll pull on the kite, gain momentum, and push off into the water. Then, allow the kite to pull you up. To turn the board, the kite has to be in the neutral position, and you’ll use the control bar to turn the kite in the opposite direction.
After you’re up, you’ve mastered the basics of getting into the water, and it is time to practice some tricks! The jumps, grabs, spins, inverts, and board-offs are what make this hybrid thrill sport.

Choose your own adventure: Part 3

Try this: Learning to fly

Try this: Zip it up

Try this: Parasailing