If you want to start windsurfing, it's best to look for a surf school. Whether on the German coast, on the lake around the corner or in a more distant area with warm water, everyone will find a suitable school. Many holiday destinations also have schools that are attached to holiday clubs or hotels.
What do I need for windsurfing?
All you need for a surf course at a surf school is a swimsuit, a towel and at best some sun cream - students are provided with everything else. However, depending on your personal preferences, it may be more convenient to buy your own wetsuit if you want to stick with it permanently.
What kind of suit do I need for windsurfing?
A wetsuit is always advisable, even in very warm, tropical areas. Beginners in particular, who often get back on the board, protect themselves from bumps and scrapes with a surfing wetsuit. The suit also protects you from cooling down and conserves your energy reserves. Whether it's a wetsuit with long arms and legs, a shorty or a long john, with a zip at the front or back - it all depends on the temperature and personal preference.
How do I start windsurfing?
The first start that beginners learn in windsurfing is the sheet start. The sail is pulled out of the water with a rope - the starting sheet - standing on the board.
How do I steer when windsurfing?
On larger boards that are not planing, the direction is determined by steering the sail. To do this, the sail is either tilted backwards or forwards.
How do I turn round when windsurfing?
To turn round with the surfboard and return to the starting point, you either have to jibe or tack. When jibing, the board turns out of the wind (to leeward), when tacking it goes through the wind (to windward). Beginners usually learn the tack first. We explain both manoeuvres here:
Can I also go upwind when windsurfing?
No, of course you can't ride directly into the wind. However, you can ride at a certain angle in the direction from which the wind is coming.
To get to a point upwind (i.e. the direction from which the wind is coming) you can cross. This means sailing an upwind course several times and tacking in between.
What do all the technical terms in windsurfing mean?
As in any field, surfers also use a lot of technical terms, which can be confusing for newcomers at first. But everything important is explained in the surf school.
Where is the best place to learn windsurfing?
The best windsurfing spots for beginners have a sandy bottom with a large standing area and a steady, not too strong wind. Ideally, it should be a bay that offers protection from waves and safety. Such surf spots can be found almost everywhere in the world. Depending on your travel preferences and budget, you can learn to windsurf in tropical heat, on the German North Sea and Baltic coasts, on the Mediterranean, in Scandinavia, the Netherlands or, of course, on numerous lakes.
