Stance: train the right body posture in windsurfing | Photo: PWA/Carter

A good stance is critical in windsurfing. Your body posture defines the way you sail and handle the power of the wind.

A perfect stance means higher performance, as well as fewer aches and pains.

Experienced windsurfers know how important it is to adopt a correct posture while sailing for hours and days.

And it is quite easy to incorporate the right windsurfing stance. The overall goal is to draw a V-like angle between the sail and your body.

The basic body position is the same on all points of sailing, from close-hauled to broad reach. Hips, shoulders, and feet are in control.

So here's what you should do:

Head

Look over your front shoulder to your target point; it will help avoid the hunched stance and possible collisions if you watch your feet.

Shoulders

They should remain parallel to the boom, with your arms slightly bent; keep them relaxed and ready to absorb any impact.

Keep your fingers relaxed and save your arms - you don't need to use them like clamps - they're hooks only.

Lower Body and Legs

Try to keep your back straight all the time, with the bottom tucked in and the hips forward.

Your knees and ankles should be flexed to allow the board to move freely.

Feet

It's important to keep them shoulder-width apart, with the front foot pointing forward to the nose and the back foot across the centerline of the windsurf board.

The moment you start gaining speed, try twisting your hips, allowing the upper body to turn towards where you want to go - that is, upwind.

This basic windsurfing stance applies whether you're sailing with or without a harness and footstraps.

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