Steering

Riding upwind and downwind

This video tutorial shows how to steer a windsurf board using the sail position. Riding upwind or downwind are the first steps after you are able to ride a straight line. You also need this if you want to learn to turn around and get back to where you came from.

Steering means changing your course, e.g. sailing a little more into the wind (upwind) or away from the wind (downwind).

Upwind
You want to sail a little more into the wind from a crosswind course - how do you this? By tilting the sail backwards. Both arms remain outstretched. Use the sail hand to get a little tight. The front leg is slightly bent, the back leg remains extended. Result: The board starts to turn with its nose into the wind.

Downwind
Would you like to sail a little further away from the wind? By tilting the sail forwards. The mast hand grips the boom a little further away from the mast, then the mast arm is extended sideways forwards and the sail arm is brought up at the same time. The front leg is extended and the back leg is bent. Result: The board starts to turn with its nose out of the wind.

You can see how to perform these movements from different perspectives in the video.

Beginner Steering Level ★☆☆☆☆☆ Text: Jürgen Schall Photos/Videos: Duotone DE

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