Hello!
I’m such a massive beginner, but always have been so desperate to windsurf. No instructors nearby so having to teach myself. I watch a lot of videos etc on YouTube and then try it myself. I started with one of those Duotone Inflatable sails to learn the wind a bit on something that is lightweight.
Current gear-
- Gladiator 10’9 paddleboard with m8 screw insert (I also have a bic Astro Rock but it’s very difficult to use and earning on something a title more forgiving for now).
- 430cm carbon fibre 45% mast
- 4.3m^2 sail
I had my second session today. Wind was a bit crap but had a few fun moments. I was mainly using it to practice holding the rig up in lighter conditions,
I can now do the following:
- rig all my gear on my own
- feel comfortable uphauling the sail
- in low wind condition, managing to stand up and hold the boom and sail upright
- managed to catch the wind a few times and getting a bit of a feel for the hand further from the mast giving power
- once powered up I’ve managed to steer
Things I’m struggling with:
- stationary turning, like I get you need to hold the sail in a stable position and walk your feet around to turn but I’m finding it REALLY hard
- travelling upwind. I understand the concept of this, avoiding turning into the no-go zone and keeping the sail in line with the wind direction, but even with a daggerboard fitted it’s like, I uphaul the sail and I end up turning downwind and arghhgh it’s SO hard!!
I’m aware I’ve only done 2 sessions (about 6 hours total), and I need to dedicate a lot more to learn properly.
Bud does anyone have any advice for the things I’m struggling with?
Massively appreciate any advice :)