How to Deep-Water Start a Kneeboard

Deep-water starts are more difficult than beach starts, but they are a must for any serious kneeboarder. With the deep-water start, you can start riding from anywhere in the water.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Safety Flags
• Kneeboards
• Life Vests
• Ski Boats
• Water Ski Ropes

1. Fasten the knee-strap in the loosest position and push it in front of the knee-pad on the board.
2. Lie on the board on your stomach with your elbows on the front of the pad, holding the strap in place with your forearms. Bend your arms so your shoulders are directly above your elbows, above the front of the pad.
3. Hold the rope with your hands in the palms-down position.
4. Signal the boat driver to "hit it," and use your elbows and stomach as a tripod for balance.
5. Continue lying on your stomach until the board is planing on the water.
6. Keep your weight on your elbows and pull your knees up under you together to kneel on the pad. Try to make this motion as fluid as possible. It will take some practice.
7. Straighten up on the board, seating your rear end between your heels.
8. Make sure your knees are in the proper position on the pad before releasing the rope with one and pulling the strap up over your thighs.
9. Velcro the strap securely over your thighs and begin riding.

Tips & Warnings

• Have the driver accelerate slowly and evenly to about 14 mph, and hold that speed until you are strapped in.
• Don't lie on only your stomach with your arms outstretched. Keep your elbows braced on the pad.
• Keep the rope centered over the nose of the board at all times.
• Always wear a life vest when kneeboarding.