Trick: Deep Water Start

Description: Getting out of the water.
The first time you're in the water with a wakeboard on your feet, it may feel very awkward. It will seem hard to get into control and feel as if you're comfortable enough for the boat to go forward. The best thing to do is just lie back, relax and let the board naturally float sideways in front of you, while keeping both hands on the handle. The boat driver should put the boat in and out of gear in order to keep the line tight but hardly moving. The driver doesn't want to pull the wakeboarder forward; he only wants to apply enough tension so that the rope is just off the water. Again, it is very important to have a good boat driver who can work with you, or it could make things difficult.

How to perform this trick: When you're ready to take off, bend your knees, keep your arms straight, and freeze. Be sure not to pull on the handle or straighten your legs, as either of these will cause you to fall back. As the boat starts to take off, gradually straighten your board so that the tip of the board is pointing at the boat, or in the direction that you are moving. This is the most important element to remember when first learning how to wakeboard. Otherwise, because of the way that you are standing on the wakeboard (sideways), the tension from your back arm will force your body to open up, with your chest facing the boat. This can also cause your board to rotate and not allow your board and fins to track. The consequences will be one of two: (1) your board will slip out, or (2) your board will catch the toeside edge... and we all know how uncool that is! To avoid this, push the handle across to your leading hip and keep your hip and handle in line with the boat. It is very important to be conscious of the direction your board is pointing. Follow these tips closely and you will be well on your way to becoming a World Champion!