Like any water sport, windsurfing comes with the risk of injuring yourself. You could collide with the sea bed if you’re not careful of your surroundings, or you could cause muscle pain due to poor technique.
Regardless, there are ways you can prevent injury during windsurfing. Keep the following tips in mind the next time you’re out on the water.
Maintain a Level of Fitness
You can often prevent injury in any sport by maintaining your fitness level, flexibility, and strength. You’re more likely to injure yourself when underprepared.
So, ensure you’re taking care of your health and maintaining a daily exercise regimen to stay in shape and prevent injuries.
Stretch Beforehand
Another aspect that leads to injuries is cold muscles. Stretching and warming up your body before hopping onto your board will loosen these muscles and make windsurfing much more pleasurable.
It’s also important to note that cooling down after your session is essential for slowing your heart rate and blood pressure gradually.
Dress for the Weather
One day you might be windsurfing under the sun in upper 70-degree weather, and the next, the water is freezing cold, and the sky is cloudy.
Therefore, you might wear a wetsuit to help prevent hypothermia. Always check the wind conditions on the water and temperature in your area to better prepare yourself for that day’s water adventure.
Use the Proper Techniques
One common mistake new windsurfers tend to make is using the wrong technique when standing on the board. Hunching over the entire time will lead to back problems—and nobody wants to walk away from their board looking like a hunchback.
Learn how to lean back in the harness on your windsurf board to avoid throwing your back out. Remember, the equipment on the board is there to help you, not make it more challenging.
Stop When You’re Tired
You must respect what your body is telling you to prevent injury during windsurfing. If you’re feeling fatigued, head back to shore.
You will not be alert enough to pay attention to the dangers in the water. Being alert also means staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water before and during your session to help prevent early fatigue.
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Windsurfing can be incredibly enjoyable, but not so much when you have an injury. Though we can’t always avoid mistakes and mishaps, following the tips above can help minimize your risk.
What are you doing to help prevent an injury during windsurfing?
