Hobbies And Interests
Equipment
Without the right equipment, water skiing can be a lot less enjoyable and even dangerous. Make sure you have a certified life vest at all times when skiing. Try to choose less bulky, lightweight designs. Make sure your bindings and boots fit properly and are comfortable. Water skiing gloves are a good idea to aid your grip, and in cold areas a light wetsuit is advised. Naturally, the boat used should be suitable for the purpose, safe, seaworthy and able to reach the necessary speeds. An experienced driver is recommended for beginner skiers.
Launching
For many people, launching is the most difficult part to master with water skiing. Many people make the mistake of trying to use their muscles to stand up, whereas the best technique is to relax and let the power of the boat pull you up into position. While in the water and waiting for the boat to begin its run, lean back and keep your skis out in front of you, with the skis rising up vertically. Keep your knees bent and your back straight and your arms fully extended.
Riding
Once up on your skis, it is important to keep your knees bent at all times, as the knees act as shock absorbers as the water surface undulates. Keeping them straight and stiff will mean fairly regular fall offs. Keep your back straight and try not to hunch up. Keep your arms fully extended so that if the rope goes slack you have room to pull back and tighten it. Keep your weight centered and your skis together so you don't end up doing the splits.
Tricks
Once the basics have been mastered, you may want to start extending yourself by trying a few simple tricks and moves. One popular basic trick is taking a ski off while skiing and traveling along on just the one ski. Once this is mastered, you can then try hooking the harness over the toes of your spare foot so you can ski with no hands. Other basic maneuvers are jumping the wake of your boat, skiing one-handed and spins and turns.