19 Sep Are You Making These Wakeboarding Mistakes? How To Fix Them

For beginners to water sports, making mistake after mistake can be frustrating. This is especially true when it comes to wakeboarding since all you want is to flawlessly soar above the water. But if you find yourself making the same mistakes every time you get out on your boat, it’s likely time to pause and correct your form. The following are some of the most common mistakes that beginners face and the wakeboarding tips to fix them.

The Mistake: Falling Forwards
The Fix: Straighten Up
Most of the time, boarders fall forwards because they are bending their arms while riding. Wakeboarding ropes, which are longer than wakesurfing ropes, are generally between 52 and 78 feet long. Even though you are far from the boat, trust the rope and straighten your arms while riding. It may take practice and strength-building to get this right every time, but you will get there.

The Mistake: Falling Backwards
The Fix: Slow Down
When the boat starts to move, it is easy to get excited and try to stand up as soon as possible. But this will only cause you to lose your grip and fall on your back. The trick to fixing this mistake is to take a breath and slow your approach down. Again, trust the boat and rope, then stand up when you are on top of the water.

The Mistake: Not Getting Air
The Fix: Weigh Your Boat
If you are struggling to create a tall wake, your boat might not be weighted properly. By installing a quality wakeboard boat ballast system and weighing it according to your desired wake size and footing, you can grow your wake and get more air when you get on your board.

The Mistake: Flopping Tricks
The Fix: Get Back To Basics
This may be one of the most common mistakes that beginners make. If you are trying out tricks only to fall into the water, you might simply not be ready. Take the time to perfect your form and even ask a more experienced friend to show you the ropes. By approaching tricks at the right time, you can prevent injury.

Above all, remember to be patient with yourself when you are just starting out. Learning to wakeboard takes time. So, follow wakeboarding tips from more experienced boarders and always stay aware of your own levels. By pushing yourself but keeping proper form, you will advance with time.