What to Expect from Your First Kitesurfing Lessons

Kitesurfing lessons, kite instructor and student smiling

Contents

Introduction

Starting your kitesurfing journey is an exhilarating adventure! Whether you’ve always been drawn to the wind and waves or are simply seeking a fun challenge, your first lessons will set the foundation for an exciting new skill. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect, how to prepare, and some common questions beginners ask about kitesurfing lessons.

How to Prepare for Your First Kitesurfing Lessons

  • Mental Preparation: Approach your first lesson with an open mind. Kitesurfing is as much about patience and persistence as it is about skill. Expect to face a learning curve but know that progress will come quickly with practice.
  • Physical Preparation: No need to be a triathlete, but basic fitness helps. Engage in exercises that improve balance and core strength, such as yoga or pilates.
  • What to Bring: Comfortable swimwear, sunscreen, and water-resistant sunglasses with straps. Your instructor will typically provide the necessary gear like a kite, board, harness, and helmet.
Checklist for kitesurfing lessons, including sunscreen, sunglasses, and swimwear.

What Do Beginners Learn in Their First Lessons?

    1. Equipment Overview: Your instructor will explain the parts of the kite, board, and safety systems. Understanding how to set up and care for your gear is crucial.
    2. Wind and Weather Basics: Learn how to read wind directions, speeds, and other weather factors essential for safe kitesurfing.
    3. Control and Safety: The first lesson focuses on kite control using a trainer kite on land. You’ll practice launching, steering, and landing while understanding the safety systems.
    4. Body Dragging: Once you’re confident with the kite, you’ll practice body dragging in the water—a step that prepares you to manage the kite in real conditions.

     

Pro tip: Body dragging is the key

Did you know that bodydragging is the most important thing to learn in kitesurfing? Even if it is something they teach you at the first lesson, this something you want to master before going in the water on your own. Believe us when we say you will be doing it much more often than what you think, especially at the beginning. So do not underestimate it!

If you want a preview of how it looks like the expert kiteboarder Sam Light created this super effective video:

Questions to Ask Your Instructor

The kitesurf instructor will play the most important role in your learning experience. You should always ask these questions to learn more about him or her and choose someone that matches your vibe and needs.

Generally the more experience the better as they will be able to give you better feedback.

Less people generally means more time with the kite in your hands and better value for your money.

You would want someone that has an insurance that covers your damage to third parties at least.

A boat following or rescue service are the best for off shore conditions but also having a second kite ready can do.

You would want to choose someone that is in your same wavelength, that gives an answer that makes you think “”This is exactly how I also see it”. Remember, your instructor will also become your role model and point of reference in this sport.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kitesurfing Lessons

Most beginners need around 8–12 hours of lessons to become comfortable riding short distances. With consistent practice, you can achieve basic proficiency in 2–4 days.

Costs vary by location and instructor, but expect to pay €50–€120 per hour. Group lessons are usually more affordable than private ones.

Here in Fuertventura where we are based lessons costs per hour range from €50 to €70 on average. You can check more prices in this page.

Kitesurfing is easier than it looks, especially with professional instruction. Within a few hours, you’ll have a solid grasp of the basics, even if it feels challenging at first.

It’s weather-dependent, so you may face delays if conditions aren’t ideal. Additionally, initial costs for lessons and gear can be high, but it’s an investment in a thrilling lifelong hobby. We recommend you inform yourself with your chosen kiteschool or instructor about terms and conditions if the class can´t take place because of weather conditions. In our case, we have a money-back full reimbursement policy.

Why Should You Try Kitesurfing?

Kitesurfing is more than just a sport; it’s a lifestyle. It connects you to nature, challenges you to grow, and opens doors to vibrant global communities. Your first lessons are just the beginning of an incredible journey!

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