In short
The quickest way to learn water-skiing is at the cable on two skis: knees up, arms straight, and let the rope pull you up. At camp we see many beginners standing after just a few attempts. Once you're riding confidently and turning, the monoski comes next.
The start in four steps
Sit in the water with the ski tips out, knees to your chest and arms straight on the handle. The rope pulls and your body follows: don't pull yourself and don't try to stand up too early.
Once the skis are gliding on the water, slowly straighten your legs and look ahead. Keep your weight over your feet.
Two skis or a monoski
Two skis are more stable to start with and more forgiving. Once you're standing confidently and can turn, you try a single ski after a few days. The monoski is faster, cuts tighter through the water and asks more of your balance.
At WuW Camp the coaches talk with each rider about when the switch makes sense.
Typical mistakes at the start
Bending your arms: the pull comes in a jerk and you tip forward. Standing up too early: the skis dig in before they glide. Leaning back: you end up in a sitting position that's hard to get out of.
A calm look ahead helps. If you take a breath after a fall, your next attempt will be more relaxed.
Gear and safety
A life jacket is always part of it, and at the cable a helmet too. Skis with adjustable bindings fit any shoe size. A wetsuit is comfortable when the water is cool.
At WuW Camp the life jacket, helmet, water skis, monoski and kneeboard are included, and a wetsuit can be added.
