What to do, after I finish my kite lessons and my instructor tells me, I am ready to go kitesurfing by myself? This is an important question - and one that involves several different aspects. After finishing a kite course, we usually see two types of people:
- those who feel insecure and have a lot of respect for going kitesurfing without an instructor by their side
- and those who might slightly overestimate their skills and, as a result, take unnecessary risks
The first group is by far the more common. Neither extreme is ideal and that’s exactly why we’re here for you. Below you’ll find the most important things to keep in mind once your kite course is over and you’re ready to take your first independent steps as a kitesurfer.
Repeat what you’ve learned
Before going back to the water, repeat everything you learned during your course - especially the safety measures. This part matters more than anything else. Rewatch tutorials, go through the steps in your head and make sure they feel clear. Our tutorial videos are a great way to refresh your knowledge before your first independent session, CLICK HERE TO WATCH.
Choose a relaxed spot for your first independent kite sessions
For your first independent meters on the water, we strongly recommend choosing a calm and forgiving spot:
- not overcrowded
- no extreme conditions (very strong wind, heavy waves or gusty conditions)
- but also not extremely light wind
- ideally with a rescue service available
Simple, safe conditions allow you to focus on yourself instead of constantly reacting to the environment. Why making it too hard in the beginning?
Take your time to get to know the kite spot
You are now going out "on your own" for the first time. Before setting up your gear and launching your kite, take a proper look around - at a familiar spot as well as at a new one.
Get familiar with:
- the wind direction and strength
- the launch and landing area
- obstacles, people and potential hazards
The better you understand your surroundings, the less room there is for things to go wrong. Trust us.
Know your equipment
Get familiar with the gear you’re using. Is it your own equipment? Perfect - take the time to really understand every part of it. Using rental gear? Then look even closer. Some systems work slightly differently than others. Make sure you know:
- how to adjust power
- how the safety leash works
- how your harness closes
- where to find your line knife
If you’re unsure about anything, ask the professionals at the kite station to walk you through it. Asking once too often is always better than not asking at all. Oh, and don't forget to adjust your foot straps on the board to your size...
Feeling nervous about the launch? Get support
If you feel unsure or nervous when launching, get help. Ideally from a very experienced kiter or someone working at a kite station. It’s perfectly fine to ask someone to hold you on your harness while launching or assist with holding the kite.
One important rule: never let anyone rush you. Take your time. If you feel pressured, stop the launch and reset. It’s always better to abort and start again calmly than to force a situation that doesn’t feel right.
Don’t overestimate yourself
Understand your skills - and act like it. Staying within your limits is not a weakness, it’s what keeps you progressing long-term.
Too scared to go alone?
You’re standing on the beach, gear ready - and suddenly you don’t feel comfortable going out by yourself. Listen to that feeling.
If you honestly feel like you’re not quite there yet, organize another lesson or support from an experienced assistant. Spending a bit more money is always better than having a "kitemare" - and there is absolutely nothing wrong with asking for help again.
You don’t have to do this alone
Almost everything will feel new when you go kitesurfing fully independent for the first time. That’s completely normal - we’ve all been there.
From our experience, sharing fears, questions and emotions makes a huge difference. Exchanging with others who have been through the same phase - or are right there - helps everyone learn faster and more relaxed.
This is exactly the environment we create at My Salty Sisters. Women who learn to kite or take their first independent steps during our retreats progress in a calmer, more confident way because they’re supported, not left alone.
Especially for kitesurfers who have just finished their course and want to make their first independent sessions feel safe and positive, a supportive setting is key. With us, you’re never alone on the water. We’re here to support you with everything you need to feel confident during your first independent kite sessions.
Our last tip for your first independent kite sessions?
Relax - you’ve got this
Stay calm. Nervousness is normal and part of the process. We know how exciting (and intense) this moment is, but you’ve got this.