When we think of a beach, sun and relaxation automatically come to mind, but there are countless activities to enjoy in the sea. One of the increasingly popular activities is kitesurfing: an adventure sport that combines physical exercise and fun like no other.
Kitesurfing became fashionable not many years ago but has since evolved by leaps and bounds, both in techniques and followers. It's a sport that anyone can try, so if you're interested but unsure if it's for you, give it a go - we guarantee you'll have no trouble learning. Neither age nor physical condition matter, as from 8 years old you can find lessons at nearly any kitesurfing school for this adventure sport. Put on your swimsuit, apply sunscreen and bring a water bottle to stay refreshed; get ready to enjoy yourself.
The first thing you need to do (and what we always recommend) is go to a qualified kitesurfing company, where instructors have the necessary qualifications and equipment is certified and in excellent condition. From there, if you've never tried it before, you'll need to take a short kitesurfing course where they'll teach you how to handle the equipment. If you've considered learning by yourself, put that idea aside because, while it's not a dangerous sport, you are dealing with natural forces (water and wind) that need to be managed properly.
Beginners always start by learning to control the kite on land, and you won't be able to get on the board until you've mastered it perfectly. Typically, there's an initial introduction with theoretical and practical lessons through a kitesurfing taster session lasting 2 hours.
Have you done the taster session? Great fun, isn't it? Next, we recommend taking it further. Why not try a basic kitesurfing course? Over two days you'll receive 3-4 hour daily lessons covering meteorology, equipment handling, basic water exercises, board initiation and first sea outings, among other things.This kite course will qualify you to keep practising and gradually improve your technique. It's ideal if you're staying in the coastal area for a short time or don't plan to take up kitesurfing as a regular hobby.
But if you've caught the bug, don't hesitate to take an advanced kitesurfing course. The lessons will teach you to make better decisions in challenging weather conditions, react to potential risks, and learn some impressive manoeuvres. One location with particularly active conditions is kitesurfing in Tarifa.
Are you a perfectionist? If you like doing things properly, you could also choose a private kitesurfing instructor. This way you'll get undivided attention and can learn quickly and effectively through continuous practice.
You've never before had the opportunity to feel the dance of waves and wind as closely as you can now. Browse our kitesurfing directory and... let the adventure carry you away!
And if you want to know more about this sport, download our kitesurfing manual.
