Beginner Tips for Water Skiing

Like most seasonal sports, Water Skiing is a summer sport many people participate in during the warmer months.  For those new to this exciting sport, there are some fundamental tips for ensuring the novice has a fun and safe experience.  This is a sport in which a person uses tow ropes, stands on one or two boards called skis, and skims the top of the water while being pulled behind a motor boat.

Water skiing started in 1922 in Lake City, Minnesota, with two boards and a piece of clothesline as a tow rope.  It evolved as technology advanced in the skis, tow lines, and techniques; however, since beginners don’t start out with a myriad of skills, most need some pointers to improve their skill.

There are several important tips that beginners need to understand to make it easier for them stand up on the skis.  First, look at the fundamental techniques that are recommended:

1. Fit the skis snugly on the feet.
2. Hold the tow rope handle by both hands with the rope centered between the knees.
3. Bend the knees upwards towards the chest, as though in a “seated” position.
4. Point the skis towards the boat keeping them shoulder width apart.
5. Have the ski tips between six and 12 inches out of the water.
6. As the boat picks up speed, keep the knees together and the skis parallel.
7. Bend the elbows slightly, arms pointing out straight ahead.
8. Have the chin down toward the chest.
9. Press both feet slightly forward on the skis.
10. Remain in this “seated” position as the boat picks up speed pulling the skier out of the water.
11. When the skis are horizontal to the water, straighten the knees and rise to a standing position, keeping the knees slightly bent.

There are a few tips that the beginner should remember which allows them to have a more enjoyable experience, such as:

• Attempting to stand up too soon throws the skier off-balance and causes the skier to fall backwards or forwards.
• Keeping the eyes looking straight ahead, or towards the boat, helps the skier support a balanced position.
• Keep the arms out straight, with the elbows slightly bent.
• Don’t pull the rope into the body.
• Stay inside the wake of the boat until better balance control is gained.
• Keep the back straight and skis shoulder width apart.
• Use the body to steer in the correct direction when feeling off-balance.

Skiing is a great activity for the beginner because as skills are mastered the sport is even more enjoyable.  Once the skier learns to let the skis and the boat do most of the work and to relax and not fight the skis, they will find skiing even more exciting.  Agree on the hand signals with the operator of the boat to make sure the driver knows when to slow down or speed up, and above all, remember to let go of the ski rope when off-balance and falling – don’t hang on to be dragged by the boat.

Photo Credits: Igor Bespamyatnov

Originally posted 2010-04-20 03:47:09.

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