How to start kiteboarding in the UK
How a beginner starts kiteboarding in the UK, with a lesson at a recognised school.
In this guide
Kiteboarding, also called kitesurfing, is riding a board along the water while a wind-powered kite pulls you through a harness, with no motor and no fixed link between the kite and the board. A beginner starts with a lesson at an approved school, learning to fly the kite before using the board, not with jumps.
A first session
The British Kitesports Association is the national governing body Sport England recognises for kite surfing. British Kitesports says it sets the standards for learning to kite at its schools, and it has around 30 recognised schools in the UK.
You start with a qualified instructor at an approved school. The introduction to flying the kite takes about one to two days: basic kite handling, then rigging, launching and basic flying, then body dragging to generate power, with control and a self-rescue. The board is introduced only after you can fly the kite, for the start and the first rides. Most people can be up and riding after a three-day course at an approved school.
What to take
In UK waters you need a wetsuit for the time of year. You need a harness to spread the pull of the kite. A seat harness, with the hook lower down, is the style described as giving good support while you learn. In a lesson, a helmet and an impact jacket or buoyancy aid are mandatory, and they are recommended while you are learning.
Our club map shows some UK kiteboarding clubs, and it is a starting point rather than a full list.
If you would like help finding a coach, ESP can match you. The fee is £29.99. Nothing is charged when you send the form. The coach's own fees are separate. We refund the fee if we cannot provide a coach, or if your health means you cannot train. If the student is under 18, we need a guardian's consent, we contact that guardian, and the guardian travels with them.
