Water skiing is a fun and thrilling activity, requiring a good combination of balance, strength and skill. However, like all sports, there is an element of risk and therefore it is important to always observe the safety procedures. Detailed recommendations can be found on the website of the British Waterski and Wakeboard federation, but here are some basics.

Always wear a life vest

Beginners should always wear a buoyancy aid such as a life vest to help them float in the water and make them more visible to other water users. If you cannot swim, you should make the boat driver and your instructor aware of this. It would be useful to learn some basic strokes and flotation techniques to help you feel more confident in the water.

Other useful safety equipment includes a helmet to protect your head during falls; a wetsuit to provide extra buoyancy and insulation in the water and gloves to protect your hands and improve your grip on the tow ropes.

Take a lesson from a qualified instructor

The best way to get started with waterskiing is to book a few lessons with a suitably qualified instructor. This is recommended because they will be able to demonstrate the correct techniques such as how to use your body weight and the water skiing ropes and handles to control direction and maintain balance.

Understand your equipment

Take some time to familiarise yourself with all the equipment so that you know its function, and check it is in good condition. 

Be aware of other water users

Always be aware of what is happening around you and avoid skiing too near other boat traffic, swimmers or obstacles in the water. Be aware of submerged objects such as rocks, mooring buoys, and jetties, and take note of shallow water, ledges and sandbank. 

You should always check that water skiing is permitted beforehand, and the boat driver should be familiar with the water. 

Learn the hand signals

Clear communication with the boat driver is essential for your safety. Learn the approved hand signals and verbal phrases to communicate with observers and the boat driver.

Practise falling safely

Water skiing will inevitably lead to a lot of falls, especially when you are learning. Be prepared to let go of the tow rope when necessary and learn how to fall away from the skis with your arms close to your body.  Try to avoid falling forwards; either sit down or fall sideways and curl yourself into a ball. 

Take your time getting back to your feet so that you can fully regain your balance and grip. 

Don’t attempt too much too soon

Know your limits and don’t push yourself too hard when you are learning. Waterskiing is physically and mentally demanding, and forcing yourself to carry on when you are tired can increase the risk of accidents. Do some gentle stretching exercises to warm up your joints before you get in the water to reduce the risk of sprains and strains.