Anyone who has ever drilled holes in the ceiling with a drill knows that there are more enjoyable activities. Wingsurfing in (too) little wind feels about the same, because the wing is hardly self-supporting and has to be actively held up so that the wingtip doesn't drag in the water. The front arm in particular, which has to hold the front tube up, tires quickly.
"Flying a kite" with the leash
One tip that can make your life easier in such cases is to give your wing more ground clearance in the meantime by utilising the length of your handleash and letting the kite soar, so to speak.
To do this, reach a little further forwards with your back hand, release your front hand and grab your leash with it. Your wing will now fly a little higher and you can bend your front arm to relieve the pressure. Of course, this riding position is not a permanent solution and contact is very indirect, especially in gusty conditions. However, this method is definitely suitable for relieving the upper arms for a short time. Try it out!
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Manuel Vogel
Editor surf
Manuel Vogel, born in 1981, lives in Kiel and learned to windsurf at the age of six at his father's surf school. In 1997, he completed his training as a windsurfing instructor and worked for over 15 years as a windsurfing instructor in various centers, at Kiel University sports and in the coaching team of the “Young Guns” freestyle camps. He has been part of the surf test team since 2003. After completing his teaching degree in 2013, he followed his heart and started as editor of surf magazine for the test and riding technique sections. Since 2021, he has also been active in wingfoiling - mainly at his home spots on the Baltic Sea or in the waves of Denmark.
