Do it or don't ? Learn it by yourself...

[kiteontario]

Take lessons!

[kiteontario]

http://www.kitehatteras.net

[Laughingman]

So what are you guys saying? Are you suggesting Saferider not take lessons?

I'd like to chime in here. And I apologize in advance for playing Devil's Advocate...

I Picked up kiting by myself in 2003....

Regards,
Brad
Newfoundland Canada

+1 on what he said.
I friend of mine gave a one hour lesson, I bought two used kites and one board on line and learned the rest practicing by my self. I read a lot on line. Especially the safety issues.

That was back in 2004.I was a windsurfer and boat sailor before.
I didn't brake any thing, I didn't hurt my self or other.
I always kept my head on. That's the most important thing. Always think and check twice before doing anything. And if in doubt, don't go and save yourself for another time.

I also have to say that my learning spot was very safe. Open sandy beaches, light steady breeze the whole summer.
Probably wouldn't have gone that way if the spot or the wind were tricky in any way.

[FLandOBX]

Just because some people have learned to kiteboard without incident doesn't mean it's a smart decision. Most who self-taught would probably recommend lessons to those with access to good instruction.

We can't completely eliminate risk in kiteboarding (or in life), but we can manage it. Starting with lessons is a prudent way to manage risk (as well as accelerate the learning process).

[Laughingman]

Just because some people have learned to kiteboard without incident doesn't mean it's a smart decision. Most who self-taught would probably recommend lessons to those with access to good instruction.

We can't completely eliminate risk in kiteboarding (or in life), but we can manage it. Starting with lessons is a prudent way to manage risk (as well as accelerate the learning process).

I agree and I think it is irresponsible to say "I did it and I'm still alive" sort of thing. So I think a conversation about what these guys are trying to say is prudent.
I mean why be "devils advocate" when as a community we clearly advise people to take lessons...
Seems counter intuitive and could easily confuse someone considering "their options" into making the incorrect choice.

[kiteontario]

Lessons aren't just for yourself and your safety, it's also for the safety of other kiteboarders and the general public enjoying the beach or shoreline where you are practicing.

[Costa99]

Short answer, get lessons!! Look at it like this, would you drive a car on a highway when you don't know your brake from your accelerator, or know how too drive? If you do decide too fly a kite by yourself, make sure its as light as possible and there is no one around who could potentially get hurt... but i recommend lessons first, you'll shorten the learning curve and potentially not damage yourself or someone else in the process.

[Burness]

Yes, please take lessons if they are available to you. They are well worth the money. I didn't have the opportunity to take them so had to learn by myself. I probably would have saved myself a lot of time and headaches.

[Topaz]

So what are you guys saying? Are you suggesting Saferider not take lessons?

I'd like to chime in here. And I apologize in advance for playing Devil's Advocate...

I Picked up kiting by myself in 2003....

Regards,
Brad
Newfoundland Canada

+1 on what he said.
I friend of mine gave a one hour lesson, I bought two used kites and one board on line and learned the rest practicing by my self. I read a lot on line. Especially the safety issues.

That was back in 2004.I was a windsurfer and boat sailor before.
I didn't brake any thing, I didn't hurt my self or other.
I always kept my head on. That's the most important thing. Always think and check twice before doing anything. And if in doubt, don't go and save yourself for another time.

I also have to say that my learning spot was very safe. Open sandy beaches, light steady breeze the whole summer.
Probably wouldn't have gone that way if the spot or the wind were tricky in any way.

No, I re read my post and I can't find any where where it says 'DON'T TAKE LESSONS'
What I say is that teaching yourself is not impossible. It's something that many did and many will do.

Teaching yourself is not grabbing the first kite you come accross, fly it and end up tangled against a tree. Teaching your self means to learn by reading, watching videos and asking, then evaluate and then try bit by bit, always being as safe as kiting can be.

[Laughingman]

No, I re read my post and I can't find any where where it says 'DON'T TAKE LESSONS'
What I say is that teaching yourself is not impossible. It's something that many did and many will do.

Teaching yourself is not grabbing the first kite you come accross, fly it and end up tangled against a tree. Teaching your self means to learn by reading, watching videos and asking, then evaluate and then try bit by bit, always being as safe as kiting can be.

You are still missing the point. You have no idea who is reading your message. You don't know if they are young and dumb, or complete idiots who have no idea what self regulate or how to identify risk and mitigate it.
By saying it is possible you are encouraging others to do the same.., its almost like a challenge... they could be thinking... well that guy did it... how hard can it be?