Forward loop in windsurfing: jump, look back and oversheet | Photo: Carter/PWA

The forward loop is one of the most important maneuvers in windsurfing.

The forward rotation is an intermediate-to-advanced move, so you need to master the art of planing, sailing upwind, and controlling the rig.

The forward loop can be performed in all types of conditions. You can pull it in flat water or the waves.

We will guide you on how to perform it in the waves because ramps help us complete the movement.

In fact, wave sailors are often testing the sport's limits in windy and bumpy ocean conditions.

Yes, it can be tricky to sail in the waves, but it is also quite rewarding.

If you can ride a wave with a sail, you're ready to test the forward loop. Get your boom higher than your regular setting, and give it a go.

Make sure you start jumping waves on a sandbar-based A-frame wave so that you can have an escape route, if necessary.

Build your confidence by trying your first forward loops in small waves.

If you can't get the board out of the water, it's because you're not going fast enough, or you're not tilting the board enough on take-off to get the wind underneath it.

Forward Loop 101

Ready? Let's fly away:

  1. Look out for peaky waves that will make good ramps;
  2. Pick up speed on the flat water;
  3. Sail on a broad reach with your feet in the straps - the further apart your feet are, the more leverage you have when jumping;
  4. Go for the selected wave slightly downwind;
  5. Carve your board towards the wind and up the face of the wave;
  6. Bear away before hitting the peak of the wave;
  7. The wind will get under the nose of the board;
  8. Move your back hand backward and extend your front arm to speed up the rotation;
  9. Look back, tuck your feet under your butt, and oversheet;
  10. Complete the sideway rotation and try to land the board nose-first;

The forward loop requires commitment and practice. You will make it, sooner or later, higher and higher.

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