Windsurfing

Fundamentals (EN)

• Planing

  Planing happens when the windsurf board moves fast enough to float on top of the water, not just pushing through it. This makes riding smoother and faster, and you need less effort to control the board.
• Sheeting In / Out

  Sheeting in means pulling the sail’s control line to catch more wind and go faster. Sheeting out means releasing it to slow down or reduce power. Good sheeting helps control speed and balance.
• Carving Turn

  A carving turn is a smooth and controlled turn where the edge of the board digs into the water. This helps keep speed during the turn and is more efficient than a wide or sliding turn.
• Tacking

  Tacking is a way to turn the board through the wind, changing direction when sailing upwind. It needs good timing to switch the sail and your body position smoothly to keep balance.
• Jibing

  Jibing is turning the board downwind in a fast, controlled way. Unlike tacking, the wind comes from behind you. You have to move the sail quickly and shift your weight to keep control.
• The Clew

  The clew is the back corner of the sail where the control lines attach. Adjusting the clew position changes the shape of the sail and affects power and speed. Experts adjust the clew to match wind conditions.
• Foot pressure

  Foot pressure means how much weight you put on your feet while riding. Adjusting foot pressure helps control the board’s direction and balance, especially in turns or choppy water.