Water-skiing is a great exercise as it can burn up to 400 calories in just one hour of fun. It might look like a sport everyone should get on but before you rush out to buy your gear, there are a few things to consider first. Perhaps one of the most obvious is knowing how to swim, but it should be a given – otherwise it will be an inconvenient sport to partake in. If one is not adept at swimming, it might be wise to take a couple of classes so one is able to at least float.
Enroll in a water-skiing class
Aside from going for swimming classes, it could be best to start off with a water-skiing class, especially if you are new to water sports. The instructor will teach you how to balance, what to do if you fall off and also help you unlearn any bad habits you might have. Classes often go on for 3 hours or so, therefore you do not have to invest too much of your time in it before you are able to hit the water. Also, you can join up advanced classes to improve on your techniques in the future, or to pick up some tricks to pull on the open water.
Finding a good spot to practice
Now that you have the basic knowledge on how to maneuver on a water-ski, it is time to find places to go water skiing. Lakes, beaches and rivers are an option, but the best for beginners should be a lake as there would be fewer obstacles and also less dangerous. It is important to practice safe habits such as telling your family members or your friends where you are going if you are going out by yourself. It is definitely better for beginners if they find a companion who is experienced in water sports so they will be able to guide you as well as keep you safe.
Go on a water-skiing retreat or camp
One of the best ways to improve on your water-skiing skills is to join a camp or a retreat. You will be treated to a myriad of exercises and opportunities to get out on the water. It is a good way to train your body up and to learn some good habits such as stretching before getting into gear. A big plus is that it is technically a vacation and you will be able to focus on water-skiing and also get to meet like-minded people and make friends. Other than that, you can also enjoy the resort and other available activities as watersport based retreats or camps usually come in a package with yoga or meditation sessions.
Entice a partner or two to join you
While sports can be a fun way to unwind alone, it could be a good idea to start with a couple of friends. That way, you can guide each other along and motivate each other. It is best if you can find someone who is already adept at the sport and a few other newbies like yourself, but if you do not have any friends who are currently doing this particular sport, it is completely fine to gather a group who are interested and learn together. There will be interesting challenges and on the bright side: you never have to worry about going out by yourself because when there is a group of you, you will easily find at least one other person willing to practice with you.
Safety comes first
If you are more keen on flying solo, remember that it is important to take precautions when attempting a new sport or activity, especially if there is a degree of danger involved such as in the case of water-skiing which could result in incapacitation or even death. If proper precaution is taken then there is no reason not to enjoy this great sport. However, it could be an extremely dangerous thing if you neglect to protect yourself, especially on open water. There is no telling what might befall you and you will most likely not have an electronic gadget on you capable of calling for help in the event you find yourself stranded, hurt or in need of emergency attention.
