Joanna James
Kite surfing is by far one of the most exhilarating beachside activities one can engage in. That being said, there are a large number of techniques that one needs to learn to take the best out of this sport.
Not only is the Air Gybe Nose Grab exciting, it also has a great aesthetic value and a wide range of variations that can keep you busy throughout the session. Before you attempt this technique, there are a few details you should keep in mind. The nose of the board has a close relationship with the direction in which you will land and you have to grab with your rear hand which plays a key role in the direction.
This is one of the most iconic techniques in kite surfing. You will basically be taking off from blind and you will be landing on heel side. You are suggested to go with straps rather than boots because you need to adjust and ensure a perfect take off. The take-off is of great importance as it occurs from the blind. Have both hands on the bar and ensure that you are going at a sufficient speed as you need a bit of momentum to accomplish this technique.
The name itself explains what this technique is all about. For those of you who do not get it, you will be basically attempting a slow back loop where you land off the wind in a heel side direction. Some people tend to spin under the kite or go way past toe side before falling backwards. If you encounter such issues, it means that your kite is flying too high. Drag the kite towards you when you are taking off and dive it downwards from the moment you can see the spot you are going to land at.
This can be one of the most dynamic ways to enter the sea if perfected. You will have to start a bit deep but this depends on the direction of the breeze and how much space you have. A depth of up to your knees is good enough as it gives enough of a cushion to offer a soft landing in the event that you get it wrong while also providing a reasonable spring to your kite surfing board. Do not attempt this near rocky beds and sea urchins for obvious reasons. With plenty of interest in water sports in Maldives islands, most hotels such as Naladhu Private Island Maldives offer classes for newbies so it should not be too hard to perfect the Beach Start from Two Feet technique.
The Blind to Toe side Carve is another blind turn that looks great when done right. When starting off it will just be a slide turn from the toe side backwards but once you are experienced in the manoeuvre you can carve towards the wind and learn variations of the technique.
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