photo credit: poka0059.com

When skimming across the water (sea or lake), it’s essential not to overreact to an uncomfortable situation. I tell people to relax more often than I tell them to remember to bend their knees! Why ski if you’re not going to enjoy the ride?

rule n°1: Just Breathe. Relaxing is breathing and breathing is relaxing, so remind your ownself every time you stand up and it’ll become habit. Big breaths of air in as well as out will help stabilize your own position and naturally set up you.

rule n°2: begin Right. If you have a smooth begin, you’re more likely to have a smooth run. A great position to get into before the boat powers up is with your own feet on the rope and your own handle pulled in about midthigh. Trying to lie as flat as possible, put your own ears under the water (sea or lake) to allow more stability. Now you’re perfectly positioned for takeoff.

photo credit: automaticpoolcleaners.org

rule n°3: Relax your own Grip. Once standing on two feet, relaxing your own grip on the handle means you’ll be able to ski three times more often. As funny as this may sound, it’ll help falls become a simple tuck and role – just don’t forget to let go! Place your own thumbs next to your own index fingers. This will allow your own hands to cup the handle instead of gripping it with all your own might. No need for those white knuckles. After all, you’re not hanging from a tree!

rule n°4: Don’t Look Down. It is crucial to keep your own eyes looking either straight forward or toward the tops of the trees around you. Barefooters have a saying, and it always holds true! “Look down, go down!” Nine out of 10 falls are caused by keeping your own eyes down. Unless you happen to be that one lucky footer, I’d suggest you heed this warning.