What is it?
Windsurfing is type of watersport that combines elements of both surfing and sailing. The sport is a relatively young one, with its origin widely accepted as being in the 1960's - the quick rise in popularity since then proves how generally well liked windsurfing is amongst the public.
What does it involve?
The practice of windsurfing involves standing upright on the surfboard base, and using the attached sail to control the movement of the board. Once you have mastered control of the equipment, you can windsurf in many formats; speed sailing, freestyle, course racing, wave sailing and slalom to name a few.
Why do it and what are the benefits?
Windsurfing is good for overall exercise - because bodily strength is so key in how you manouevre the equipment on the water, the whole body will gradually becoming stronger the more you practise windsurfing. Once they've mastered the basics, students will get a great thrill by being so independent and in control whilst on the water; windsurfing is great fun when you know how!
What equipment do we need?
As windsurfing is an activity where you will need to be using a provider to take a group out, you shouldnt need to supply any specialist equipment yourself! You may need to ensure the students are all dressed appropriately, so check with the venue for their advice.
Who is it suitable for?
Reasonably young children can start to learn to windsurf, but height and weight must be taken into account - as windsurfing uses the body to weigh down the board and balance the various forces in play, the windsurfer must be heavy enough and tall enough to adequately operate the board and sail. If you are unsure about whether your student group is suitable, check with your chosen provider to get exact details.
Costs?
As the types of session you can book vary so much, the the costs can vary from under £20 per person for an hour to a private whole day session increasing above £200. You must shop around in your area to decide what kind of experience you want your students to have, and how much money you want to spend!
Issues/Things to think about? (unsuitable for age groups, medical conditions etc)
Because of the freedom of the sport, its possible for things to spiral quickly out of control - there may not always be an instructor right next to someone in trouble to assist them! Your student group should be mature enough to be sensible on the water and respect all safety instructions and equipment such as lifejackets and helmets.
How do we include?
There are organisations and providers that cater specifically for disability within watersports, but they are not available everywhere - if your group has any special needs you must do your research to see if there is an establishment near you that can help!
Doing it abroad?
Countries with a lot of coastline will be your ideal destination for windsurfing, as more open and therefore windier water is the best environment for windsurfing on.
Main website:
https://ukwindsurfing.com is the website for general windsurfing in the UK, but the individual websites of more specific venues will have more information on what's available for you.
Polkerris Beach combines an idyllic sandy Cornish cove with first class watersports facilities. It's as good for a day trip as it is for a two-week holiday or intensive watersports course.
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Wimbleball Lake, Exmoor; a vast expanse of inland sheltered water, perfect for all watersports, all season training, land and water-based events, schools and youth groups and all round family fun.
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At Mote Park Watersports Centre we provide the opportunity to take part in Sailing, Kayaking and Canoeing, Rowing and Power Boating, for anyone aged 8 years and over. Along with this, we offer Windsurfing and Stand Up Paddle boarding, all year round scuba diving lessons with a highly qualified scuba diving instructors, and first rate first aid courses for businesses and individuals.
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A 15-year-old boy fell 60ft over the edge of a cliff whilst on a geography school trip, miraculously only suffering minor injuries.