0203 589 0145
info@ucpa.co.uk
Definitely not a sport for the faint hearted, this is a great way to get the adrenaline pumping and push yourself to the max! 
 
Kitesurfing is a sport that requires two natural resources, wind and water. This watersport doesn't have to be on big waves or choppy water, you can enjoy this sport on mirror-flat lagoons. There is a lot to learn, but UCPA have courses each step of the way to get you from mastering the basics to pulling off some aerial transitions.

Where to go and when

Resort Best season for wind
  JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC
Lacanau                        
Port Barcares                      

 
Essaouria                        
Dakhla                        
El Gouna                         
Fuerteventura                      
  

W​ind conditions

How much wind do I need to go kite boarding?  

Generally speaking, the average kite boarder needs about 12mph to get up and ride. 

When is it too windy to go out kite-surfing?

This is mainly down to your level, but the average rider can comfortably kite from 12-20mph. Always remember that smaller kites in high winds move much faster than larger kites in light winds. One more thing to consider is your riding ​location- in many areas the waves grow and become much more powerful as the wind increases.

What happens if there is no wind?

We'd hope that this isn't the case, but you never know with mother nature! If the weather conditions are not suitable to finish your course UCPA will ensure that you still have a fantastic week trying out some of the other activities available ​at the centre.

What type of wind should I kite surf in?

Side-Onshore: the safest wind direction for kiteboarders allows you to easily sail back to the beach
Cross-Shore: a good, but not perfect wind direction because the kite might pull you away from the shore
Onshore: you must proceed with caution because the wind will be pushing you toward the beach
Offshore: a dangerous scenario because the wind will be constantly pushing you away from the coastline and into open ocean;
Side-Offshore: a threatening situation in which the wind will push you further out to sea

For Beginners

What kit do you need?

UCPA will provide all kiting equipment including; kites, boards, wetsuits What you need to bring; swimwear, suncream, rash vest, cap and sunglasses 

How fit do you need to be?

You don’t need to be super-fit to kitesurf. However, a general level of fitness will help you progress faster, give you more stamina on the water and help you avoid injuries. Most of the kit is lightweight, so you don’t need lots of muscle strength either.

What will I be able to do by the end of the week?

Well this is up to your speed of progression really! The key skills that you are likely to learn as a beginner are how to fly a kite on land, launching, landing and controlling it. Then you will progress to learning how to fly it in the water and then getting up and riding on a board!

How many lessons do you need before you're up and riding?

This really does depend on a lot of things! Most people need around 10-12 hours to get up and ride along the waves at ease. If you have any previous waterboarding or windsurfing experience this clearly will help and may speed up your progression. 

 

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For Improvers/Intermediates

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What skills should I already have?

You should be able to fly a kite in the water, body dragging, have good control and be competent at re-launching from the water. You should also be able to set up your kit independently.


What will I be able to do by the end of the week?

You will be able to confidently (hopefully!) go away from the shore (with side-shore and side-on-shore wind) while body dragging, go down wind and come back to the shore. You should know the water start theory like the back of your hand: board and body positioning, kite piloting.

How do you know when you are ready to stop having lessons? 

In our opinion, there is always something more to learn and that's what is great about UCPA Kitesurfing. There are different level courses to suit all abilities and the discussions had with your instructors give you the chance to express your goals for the week whether that is a smooth carve turn or how to jump. It is always good to get a sign off from your instructor for future courses to state your level and suitability for hiring kit independently in other kitesurf locations. 

 

For the more advanced kitesurfers

What skills should I already have?

You will be able to confidently (hopefully!) go away from the shore (with side-shore and side-on-shore wind) while body dragging, go down wind and come back to the shore. You should know the water start theory like the back of your hand: board and body positioning, kite piloting.

Can I use my own equipment?

You are more than welcome to bring your own kit with you. If you want to save on baggage though, all technical equipment will be provided by UCPA.

What will I be able to do by the end of the week? 

Edge control- acceleration by edging down and moving the kite, stop by edging, edge on the heel and toe side to change the course. Ride upwind. Switch direction smoothly. Perform jumps and tricks.

 

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Tutorial Videos

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