Skills: Windsurfing Lessons From a Pro
In today’s SUP-obsessed world, does windsurfing still matter? Pro windsurfer Shawna Cropas says “yes” and she’s right. Windsurfing participation increased by an impressive 20 percent from 2009 to 2012, according to a recent participation report from the Outdoor Foundation.
A Maui-based mom who coaches clinics and gives windsurfing lessons in jet-set locales from Egypt and Ireland to Maui and the Caribbean, Cropas says, “It’s definitely one of the cooler sports—it’s extremely exciting and you have your own little sailboat so you can go anywhere. Plus, windsurfing keeps your body healthy and your mind in a good place.”
“Its probably one of the hardest sports to learn and become more expert at,” she admits, “but if you have proper instruction you’ll be up and sailing the first day. It’s a finesse sport—very technical like cross-country skiing, but I’ve found that it’s something that women can do quite easily.”
Still, this wind- and wave-fueled sport can look intimidating to the novice. “Windsurfing is completely safe—you start on a beginner board with a small sail and you learn in safe environment. As long as you’re taking windsurfing lessons with a qualified instructor, you’re in good shape.”
Cropas recommends getting your feet wet with a clinic such as the upcoming Aloha Windsurfing Clinic at the Four Seasons Resort Maui, held November 10-15 (prices start at $5,950, including lodging, breakfast, high-end equipment, gear, video reviews, and instruction). She will lead the clinic’s group of beginners to learn to windsurf and standup paddleboard. [The clinic will employ new boards that can be used for both SUP and windsurfing.] Cropas’ partner, champion windsurfer Matt Pritchard, will instruct the more experienced clinic attendees.
In the meantime, Cropas offers 5 tips on getting started for those who want to learn to ride:
1. Get Schooled. Don’t just rent a board and go out on your own. It will be frustrating and you could get hurt. All you need are couple of pointers, so invest in a lesson.
2. Get a Pro. Do your homework and find a pro instructor. They’re easy to find in windsurfing hotspots such as Oregon, Florida, Hawaii, Greece, Egypt, and Bonaire and Cabarete Island in the Caribbean.
3. Swing Low. Book your lesson in the morning when the winds aren’t so crazy; it will be an easier time to learn.
4. Dress Accordingly. Your first time windsurfing you’ll likely be falling in the water a lot so you always want to wear a wet suit—2mm is good and long-sleeve if you want the sun protection.
5. Come Prepared. Before you book a lesson or go on a holiday for a clinic, have some level of fitness so you can last a little longer. Windsurfing is equivalent to cross-country skiing; you use every muscle in your body. It’s an incredible workout so pacing yourself while you’re learning is important. You also want to replace electrolytes to help your muscles recover.
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About Erinn Morgan
After a 10-year career as an award-winning New York City-based editor launching and redesigning urban, style-driven magazines, Erinn Morgan left her downtown Manhattan digs after September 11th, 2001, in search of a less encumbered, freelance lifestyle. A life-changing, two-year-long trek around the country in a motorhome eventually landed her in Durango, Colo., which she now calls home. Her writing has appeared in numerous— More about this author →
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