Beginner Board Riding Question

[average_male]

When getting up on my board (trying to atleast), it feels more natural and easier to water start (plane) towards my left side (9<->12 o'clock side), when trying to plane on the right (12<->3 o'clock side) it feels very awkward when leading with my right foot and planing with my heel-side.

My question: Is this something I have to get used to by practicing, or is it common to simply rotate my board 180? and put my left foot forward in the direction I am going (in this case towards my right) and edge the board on my toe-side?

Thanks for any insight.
Joe

[jjm]

It is something you'll get used to.

Can you ride switch on say a snowboard or wakeboard?

Try playing around with a trainer and a skateboard, force yourself to go switch instead of riding toeside.

It is a little harder without straps since you have to position your feet yourself. If the wind is steady and on the lighter side, try using a harness and attach a fixed loop, it helps concentrate on your stance and not holding the kite in the right position (you'll be hooked in on the water). Don't hook in if the wind is crazy strong and/or gusty. Helmet/pads recommended too

Try riding with a duck stance, and put your feet closer to (or against) the tips of the skateboard, which at least for me was very unlike how I would stand skating around.

[average_male]

Cool, thanks for the detailed reponse. During the off season while snowboarding I did what you suggested, kind of thought thats what I needed to do, just wanted to make sure I was on track.

Thanks!