Longboard windsurfing is a great way to start your windsurfing journey. The longboard provides stability, balance, and ease of control, especially for beginners. While shortboards are designed for speed and tricks, longboards are ideal for light wind conditions and learning fundamental techniques. In this article, we will explore the top five longboard windsurfing techniques every beginner should learn to gain confidence on the water.
1. Uphauling the Sail
Why Uphauling Matters
Uphauling is the technique used to lift the sail out of the water and get ready to sail. This is one of the first and most essential skills a beginner must master. A clean and controlled uphaul helps you maintain balance and sets up your body in the correct stance to begin moving.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Position the board so it is facing across the wind, not into it.
2. Stand with your feet on either side of the mast base for stability.
3. Grab the uphaul line with both hands and pull steadily, using your legs more than your back.
4. Keep your arms straight and lift the sail vertically out of the water.
5. Once the sail is up, grab the mast and prepare to take the neutral position.
Pro Tip
Keep your back straight and knees bent. Avoid pulling with your back muscles. Let the wind help you raise the sail.
2. Finding the Neutral Position
Importance of the Neutral Position
The neutral position helps you control the sail and stay balanced without moving forward or backward. It is the starting point for most maneuvers and provides time to assess wind direction and prepare for movement.
How to Find Neutral
1. Hold the mast with both hands at chest height.
2. Let the sail hang downwind, like a flag flapping in the breeze.
3. Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart around the mast base.
4. Your knees should be slightly bent, and your arms relaxed.
Pro Tip
Don’t rush into moving. Use the neutral position to feel the wind and adjust your stance if needed. Staying calm is key.
3. Basic Sailing Position
Why the Basic Sailing Position Is Essential
This technique lets you catch the wind and move forward smoothly. It requires good posture, sail control, and weight distribution. This is the foundation of windsurfing movement.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Transition from the neutral position by placing your back hand on the boom first (about shoulder width behind the mast).
2. Then place your front hand forward on the boom near the mast.
3. Slowly pull the sail in with your back hand to capture the wind.
4. Keep the mast upright and your body relaxed.
5. Adjust foot placement to maintain balance and direction.
Pro Tip
Start with light wind conditions. Use small movements to adjust sail power and steer gently.
4. Steering the Longboard
Understanding the Basics of Steering
Steering allows you to change direction using body weight and sail position. On a longboard, steering is smooth and stable if done correctly. Beginners need to focus on balance and subtle adjustments rather than sharp movements.
Two Key Techniques
1. Tilting the Sail
To turn upwind (toward the wind), tilt the sail back behind your body.
To turn downwind (away from the wind), tilt the sail forward in front of your body.
2. Shifting Weight
Shift weight slightly onto your back foot to go upwind.
Shift weight toward the front foot to head downwind.
Pro Tip
Always look where you want to go. Your body naturally follows your line of sight, helping with smoother transitions.
5. Tacking and Turning
Why Tacking Is a Core Skill
Tacking is the process of turning the front of the board through the wind to change direction. It is a controlled, stable way to reverse direction and is safer for beginners than jibing (turning downwind).
Step-by-Step Tacking Technique
1. Start from the basic sailing position.
2. Steer slowly into the wind by tilting the sail back and shifting weight to the back foot.
3. As the board slows and begins to face the wind, step around the mast with your front foot.
4. Bring your back foot forward and pivot to the new direction.
5. Shift hands on the boom to the new sailing side and regain sail control.
Pro Tip
Practice tacking in light wind. Stay low and centered over the board to maintain balance during the turn.
Bonus: Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
1. Using Arms Instead of Legs
Let your legs do the work. They are stronger and more stable than your arms. Use them to lift the sail and balance the board.
2. Holding the Sail Too Tight
A tight grip makes the sail harder to control. Keep your arms relaxed and adjust your hand position as needed.
3. Ignoring Wind Direction
Understanding wind direction helps you plan your movement. Use landmarks or waves to determine where the wind is coming from.
4. Standing Too Rigid
Flex your knees and keep your hips loose. This helps absorb bumps and maintains control on the water.
Conclusion
Longboard windsurfing is an exciting and rewarding water sport. By learning these five core techniques—uphauling, finding neutral, sailing, steering, and tacking—beginners can build a strong foundation. Using simple, consistent practice and staying patient will help you progress faster. Always prioritize safety, start in calm conditions, and don’t be afraid to ask for guidance. With time and confidence, these beginner techniques will become second nature and open the door to advanced skills and more windsurfing adventures.