Are lessons needed to windsurf?

Question

i am thinking about starting windsurfing and i want to know if i need ot have lessons in order to start, i do not have any friends that i know that do it either. i live in maryland and have access to the chesapeake bay

Answer 1

I don't think lessons are a must, but convenient as they will get you through the toughest part of windsurf (learning) faster.

Are you near Baltimore? If so, try this site, lessons seem very reasonable.

http://www.windsurfbaba.org/pages/clinic...

I would say the most important, weather you do it taking classes or not is to get in touch with the local windsurfers. They are normally very friendly and eager to help. Just find out where they sail, go there and talk to them! They will give you all the best tips.

Something VERY important is to start with the right equipment (floaty wide board) and with the right wind conditions (on shore, about 10 mph and flat water). If you don't, you may get frustrated very fast.

Other sites of interest (do a google search if you want more)

http://www.windsurfresource.com/southern...

http://sports.groups.yahoo.com/group/mor...

Answer 2

check out this site.  http://www.boards.co.uk/main/index.asp

there are some tips and information.

I recommend lessons because learning on your own could lengthen your progress.  The most difficult part is the first few days where you get a feeling on how to hold the sail (called the rig) properly. One important thing to remember is to keep the mast hand close to your shoulders and use the other hand to adjust the power of the wind on the sail.  Once you master this, it is like learning to ride a bike.  It will be a natural relflex to find your balance.  A friend thought me this and I really progressed fast after I put it in practice.

Good luck.