Kitesurfing is a sport that involves a number of risks. It is strongly advised against anyone attempting to kitesurf without first taking sufficient lessons to master the sport. Not spending the time necessary to learn kitesurfing properly is putting yourself in unnecessary danger. This is why a license is mandatory to practice kitesurfing. It is an essential protection for you, but also for others who must be covered in case of accident.
What are the risks in kitesurfing?
Kitesurfing requires the utmost care, as it is a risky activity for the following reasons:
The weather conditions: the sensations provided by a good kitesurfing session are such that it is tempting to jump into the water overestimating one’s abilities. This is a mistake that can have very harmful consequences for those who make it. Indeed, finding yourself in difficulty far from the shore can quickly turn out to be a real hassle for those who have never been confronted with this type of situation. You must at least master the basics of aerology and not take chances with strong winds.
The water surface: if you have never kited on the spot you have chosen to discover, find out about it and ask other surfers for advice. Some coasts are more dangerous than others, for example Aquitaine or the Basque Country are known for their baïnes. These are powerful marine currents that can take you far from the beach and that you must know how to face without panicking.
The chosen equipment: if you set off with a sail that is too big for your level of expertise, or if you are surprised by sudden and unexpected gusts of wind once you are far away, you will quickly find yourself in difficulty. Don’t neglect this essential element for your safety and that of others, which is the choice of the sail. Adapt its size to the wind and don’t overestimate yourself unnecessarily. Kitesurfing is a sport that should bring you pleasure, the goal is not to take unnecessary risks, sometimes with dramatic consequences.
Ask for your kitesurfing licence online HERE
Why should I take kitesurfing lessons?
This discipline has the particularity of combining three forces which are at the origin of falls and their consequences:
The force of the wind: this is the wind force, which allows the sail to pull you forward.
The drag force: or aerodynamic force linked to the lift. The drag is exerted by the air on the sail and by the water on the board.
The sportsman’s force: in order to control his speed and to be able to go upwind, he must push his board against the waves of the water. The surfer pushes his board back by using his heels. Successful surfing depends very much on the quality of the surfer’s support.
The combination of these three forces is not easy to master all the time, which explains the falls that are the main risk in this discipline.
What are the most frequent accidents?
Falling causes various injuries, mainly to the head. Wearing a helmet is recommended in case of strong winds. Losing consciousness in water is not a panacea, but it can happen. Then come various types of injuries, dislocations, sprains and sometimes fractures. Hypothermia and mild bruising are also quite common in kitesurfing.
Why use our school?
Kitesurfing can be learned and we are experienced professionals. In Hyères, in the Var, we have been giving kitesurfing lessons for years and have introduced hundreds of students to this wonderful sport. Join us and discover this fantastic discipline with us. And don’t forget your kitesurfing licence, as it is compulsory!