Wakeboarding: The Art of Face Planting and Falling in Style
Wakeboarding is a water sport that involves a person being towed by a boat while standing on a board resembling a snowboard. This popular activity was invented by some crazy dudes who thought it would be fun to combine surfing, snowboarding, and getting dragged through the water at high speed.
While wakeboarding may seem like a simple and graceful activity, it is actually notorious for causing face plants and wipeouts that would make even the most experienced skateboarder cringe. In fact, the most important skill in wakeboarding is not staying upright, but falling in the most epic and stylish way possible.
The beginner wakeboarder will quickly learn how to perform a “face plant” - this move involves falling face-first into the water at high speed, usually accompanied by a spray of water in the face and an unexpected mouthful of lake water. While this move may seem daunting to the uninitiated, it is actually a rite of passage in the wakeboarding world, and is seen as a sign that the person is truly committed to the sport.
As the novice wakeboarder progresses, they may attempt more advanced moves such as the “backflip” or the “360 spin”, often resulting in more spectacular falls and bruises. These stunts require a mix of skill, courage, and a complete disregard for personal safety.
One of the most thrilling aspects of wakeboarding is the speed - being towed behind a boat at 30 mph is not for the faint of heart. The sensation of flying through the water while standing on a board is only matched by the excitement of wiping out and skimming across the surface of the lake like a human skipping stone.
In conclusion, wakeboarding is a sport for those who enjoy combining extreme danger with the potential for extreme embarrassment. It is not for the weak or the faint of heart. If you’re looking to push your limits and experience the thrill of high-speed face plants, then wakeboarding may just be the sport for you!