Learning to Windsurf

The RYA level 1 certificate course generally runs for 1 day (about 8 hours) which can cost anything between 40 to 60 pounds depending on your chosen RYA centre. But there are also half day introductory sessions available (about 4 hours), which give you a pretty good idea of what it's all about, but that doesn't get you to RYA level 1 standard. If you're really keen to learn then personally I wouldn't bother with a half day session, you'll only wished you had spent the extra cash and done your one day level 1 certificate instead.

If this all seems a bit of a doddle and you feel you're really making progress, then don't forget RYA certificates go upto level 5 and you don't necessarily have to do them in this country!

You don't have to be a member of the RYA to learn at an RYA centre, but should you wish to be a member anyway, contact: RYA House, Romsey Road, Eastleigh, Hants, SO50 9YA. or 'phone (01703) 627400. Membership costs 19 pounds or 8 pounds for under 21's. Benefit of membership include, free third-party insurance, a quarterly mag', advice line, discounts on training courses, equipment insurance, BUPA and car hire.

• Your day will probably start with an hours talk on the basic principles of wind direction, basic rig components and the 'dry-land simulator' which gives you the chance to try your sense of balance and sense of wind direction without getting wet!

• Then it's straight onto the water for the 'practical', which can be a bit frustrating at first but your instructor will no doubt be close at hand in a motor boat to help.

• A break for lunch, which is a good time to discuss your progress and get your head together.

• Then back onto the water. At this point you'll find everything will fall into place and your perseverance will have paid off.

• The day will finish with the necessary 'theory' before becoming the proud owner of a Level 1 certificate.

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