Wakeboarding

Just as snowboarding is similar to skiing, wakeboarding is similar to waterskiing - the only difference being you have your feet fixed on to a single board. You are towed behind a boat at speed whilst trying to stay upright by gliding the surface of the water. Once you have grasped the basics of actually standing on the board, there are all sorts of tricks and jumps for you to learn, and there is something for everyone.

One of the simplest tricks is the 'raley' where the rider jumps over the wake and lands on the other side. Rolls involve the rider flipping over while in the air and there are various landings for this. You can try wakeboarding at many approved centres right throughout the country, and it is an activity for all the family to enjoy. Most centres offer training facilities on dry land as this is easier to learn than on a boat.

There are not too many restrictions for this sport, except the ability to swim at least 50 metres and children are usually required to be at least 8 years old to give it a go. The key to successful wakeboarding is to crouch down with your arms relaxed until there is enough tension on the water to take your weight. Once you're standing, your shoulders need to be parallel to the board with one leg forward and the handle by your forward hip - simple!. Of course coaching is available at some centres and they will take you through the basics to ensure you are experienced enough to give it a real go!!

There are many locations where you can experience Wakeboarding:

• Berkshire
• Cornwall
• Devon
• Gloucester
• Kent
• Manchester
• Middlesex
• Milton Keynes
• Oxford
• Surrey
• Sussex
• Sheffield
• Tamworth