Why You Should Book a Refresher Lesson Before Your First Kitesurf or Wingfoil Session of the Season
Before hitting the water again after winter, theres one key step you should take before heading out: A refresher lesson.
Even if you feel fairly confident, here’s why it’s worth booking that first lesson of the year.
1. Remember The Basics
It’s easy for skills to get a little rusty if you have been off the water for a few months. Kitesurfing and wingfoiling require coordination, timing, and balance, and without regular practice, it can be easy to forget the basics like controlling your kite or wing, or the best way to position yourself in the water. A refresher lesson will help you get started and ease you into the season so you can feel confident when it’s time to go solo again.
2. Gear Check by an Expert
Even if you took good care of your gear through summer, it's always a good idea to have an instructor check it over before heading out. An experienced instructor can ensure that your kite, wing, harness, and all your lines are in perfect working order, saving you from a potentially frustrating (or unsafe) surprise when you hit the water.
3. Get Comfortable With the Wind Again
Wind conditions can be tricky, especially if you haven’t been out for a while. Getting a feel for wind direction and strength, as well as where to launch and land, can be tough if you’ve had a long break. Your instructor can help you assess the wind and refresh your memory ensuring you feel confident before you head out.
4. Safety First
No matter how experienced you are, safety should always be a priority. A refresher lesson is a great time to brush up on safety procedures, like how to self-rescue, use your safety leash, and avoid any common mistakes. Getting into the habit of practicing good safety from the start of the season will help you avoid mishaps when you're out on the water.
5. Boost Your Confidence
It’s completely normal to feel a bit nervous after being off the water for months. A refresher lesson helps you ease back into things at your own pace. Whether you're doing simple trick or just getting used to controlling your gear again, a lesson will help you rebuild your confidence before heading out on your own.
6. Maximize Your Progress This Season
Want to make the most of your time on the water this season? A refresher lesson is the best way to start strong. It’s a chance to fix any bad habits you might’ve picked up last season and make sure you’re approaching things with the right techniques. This way, you’ll have a smoother time progressing and learning new skills, instead of wasting time figuring out what went wrong once you're out there.
7. Understand Local Conditions
If you’re heading to a new spot or haven’t been to your usual location in a while, it’s always helpful to have a local instructor show you the lay of the land. They’ll know the best launch spots, potential hazards, and local wind and water patterns. This can save you a lot of trial and error and help you get the most out of your session.
In Conclusion
A refresher lesson isn’t just about brushing off the rust—it’s about setting yourself up for a fun, safe, and successful season. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or still working on your skills, taking the time to refresh your knowledge and technique will make sure you’re ready to enjoy every minute on the water.
So, why wait? Book your refresher lesson today and start the season off right!
