1. Sail Away
Windsurfing, often called sail boarding, is a popular water sport. To do it, you essentially sail a surf board over the water. Using your body weight to push or pull the sail, you set your course to catch both waves and wind. Windsurfing is an international sport enjoyed by millions, and there are both professional and amateur competitions known as regattas.
2. Time for Lessons, Dude
Learning to windsurf is not as simple as hopping on a board and sailing into the sun. It takes a great degree of balance and upper body strength to maneuver the sail and control the surfboard. Surf and sailing clubs have instructors who can teach you to wind surf in just a few days. Kids as young as five can take lessons, provided they know how to swim and aren't afraid of the water. Many coastal cities have surf clubs and can schedule lessons for you. Usually, the club will supply you with everything you need to take lessons.
3. Dude, Where's My Surfboard?
Sailboards for beginners are usually made of polyurethane, while racing boards are made from epoxy. The size of the board and sail usually depends on the size of the rider, while the weight depends on the rider's style. Lighter boards are made for racing, so they're not ideal for the beginner. If you're just trying out windsurfing for the day, can rent your equipment. You might also want wet suit and some water shoes, but you don't need them to wind surf.
4. Fresh Air and Sunshine
Being on the water beneath the sun on a beautiful, warm day is a pretty good way to spend your time. When you add in the health benefits of fresh air and the exercise, why wouldn't you try windsurfing? Windsurfing works your core muscles as you balance on the board. You use your entire body to maneuver the sail rigging and steer, so you work your arms, back and legs as you sail. If you're out on a sunny day, you'll also soak up some Vitamin D, which is known to combat depression. Just make sure to wear plenty of sunscreen.
5. Windsurfing Vacations
There are a variety of companies that offer windsurfing vacations in exotic locations like Aruba or Barbados. Such vacation packages usually include your lodging and equipment, which saves you the effort and the expense of transporting it to your destination. If you'd rather not plan your entire vacation around windsurfing, most resorts offer other events, sites and activities for you to enjoy. And, of course, you can always spend your vacation windsurfing by renting equipment at a beach near you.
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