How to Side Slide on a Kneeboard

Sliding sideways on your board is a great first trick for beginning kneeboarders.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

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

1. Learn to cut and turn on your kneeboard (see "How to Steer a Kneeboard" in the Related eHows). You've probably already done some side sliding while learning to turn.
2. Ride directly behind the boat, holding the rope in the palms-down position.
3. Keep your head level and your shoulders pulled back. A good starting position is essential to performing this trick.
4. Turn your head and torso to the left while placing more weight on your left leg. Keep your center of gravity over the board.
5. Pull the handle to your right hip and hold it there. Your board should rotate 90 degrees, sliding on the water perpendicular to the boat.
6. Remain upright and centered over your board. Leaning back will cause your rail to catch and make you cut, while leaning forward will cause your rail to catch and make you fall.
7. Return to the normal riding position by turning the board forward with your head and torso, allowing the rope to pull your arms straight out in front of you.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice side sliding in both directions. The skills involved with the basic side slide will come in handy on more advanced maneuvers.
• Keep your eyes on the horizon to help keep your weight centered over the board.
• Lock the handle against the hip that's closest to the boat.
• Always wear a life vest and observe basic boating safety rules when kneeboarding.