Older guy learning to kiteboard

[crazykiter1127]

Hello,

I am new to the forum, and I've been interested in learning to kiteboard for a few years now. I am 66yo, in good shape, 180lbs, but I am worried that I have some mild arthritis in the knees, and this could impede my learning experience. I'm not expecting to be kiteboarding in heavy conditions, or in open ocean.

For older guys with joint issues, how does kiteboarding affect you? Is this sport taxing on the body, and joints? Would wearing a high quality knee brace help. I was hoping to shoot down to OBX for a week, and take some lessons. Thanks so much guys appreciate it.

Regards,
John

[andyjiggs]

The oldest guy by us is 82. I guess he has some arthritis but he hasn’t mentioned it and copes very well in most conditions.
I’m considerably younger and have mild arthritis in my big toe joints,doesn’t effect my kiting but can be painful walking.
I don’t think if you are generally fit that it will have any major negative effects.

[Greenturtle]

You will fit right in 66 is pretty average age for a kiteboarder. You’ll just have to give it a try to find out if your specific pain issues are inflamed by it. Once you can ride decently you have the option to cruise very relaxed and it doesn’t take much strain at all on the body. Or take it as far as you want/can.

[FLandOBX]

Hey, John. I agree with Greenturtle. 66 is not really "older" by kiteboarding standards. You are already miles ahead by being "in good shape". Some will disagree with me, but kiteboarding alone (IMHO) will not keep you in great shape. Make sure you put in your hours every week on aerobic and resistance training. If you do, you'll be able to kite for a couple more decades (or more).

As far as arthritis, you will adapt. I find that my body holds up well beyond my capacity for concentrated mental focus. I can kite for many hours physically, but I usually get sloppy from waning concentration after about 2 to 2-1/2 hours on the water. I sometimes feel "claw-arthritis" in my hands after long sessions, but nothing that keeps me off the water. Some people wear knee braces for added support and security. If it helps you, then wear one (as long as it doesn't prevent leg movement). I sometimes wear an elbow brace, but it's more of a psychological than a physical benefit.

Your plan to head to the OBX for lessons is spot on. There aren't too many locations better than the OBX for learning to kiteboard.

[tomtom]

66 with some sport past is NO PROB. I teached 62 years woman last summer. KB is sport that is doable to the death - unlike windsurfing. There is very little physical demand if you choose to. About knees - you probably wont be able to learn KB strapless but switch to strapless as soon as possible. Is like 300% better for knees. Also look for hydrofoiling. Its least physical demanding type of kitesurfing. Almost all older guys end up with hydrofoil.

[oldkiter]

Don't worry about it!!

[knotwindy]

If you are concerned about your knees for any reason please make sure you spend some extra time body dragging. If you do not know what this is don’t worry, you will soon enough. Most people learning want to get on the board as quickly as possible, understandably. You are paying for the time and don’t want to ‘waste’ it. However, the more time you spend body dragging the better your kite skills will become with far less chance of irritating your knees. It will also make water starting & the initial crashes less likely to do damage if you have better kite control from more time & practice. Once you have the kite skills you will find that your weight is partially carried by the kite through the harness so if you can keep the kite pulling steadily it will put less pressure on the knees. So, yes, go for it but sensibly.

[matth]

Stay away from harsh chop and buy a flexible board with some rocker that eats up chop...Shinn Monk, Cabrina Tronic, Ocean rodeo Smoothie are a few that come to mind....there are many others...

[Toby]

softer board and soft pads will help. Avoid the heavy chop.

The more you kite the more you will build up the muscles for it...that might help with your arthritis as well.

Give it a try for sure...and see how it goes.

Good luck, and welcome!

PS: let us know how it went for you!

[apollo4000]

Welcome and enjoy.
You’re at the right age to afford it
Soft foot pads definitely
Neoprene knee braces under the wetsuit May help
Life vest to take the stress if you end with with a bit of a swim
Swimming helps stamina plus you may need it
Cycling helps legs
Core exercises help
Good luck