Kite Surfing

What is Kite Surfing?

Kite boarding / kite surfing emerged in popularity in the early to mid 1990’s and as the equipment has improved it has become far more mainstream. There is a distinction between kite boarding and kite surfing.

Kite surfing – actually riding waves and sometimes uses strapless boards

Kite boarding – anything not wave riding; free style, wake style, speed and racing

image of man with sunglasses on kite surfing in the ocean Kite surfing in NE Florida

Is Kite Surfing Difficult to Learn? Is Kite Surfing Easier than Surfing?

As a mode of exercise kite boarding/surfing can vary widely depending on conditions and equipment. In calm water conditions with steady wind kite boarding is not very strenuous and can be very relaxing. On the other hand, when water conditions are rough or you are doing tricks/jumps or actually surfing it can be extremely strenuous and a great means for intense exercise.

Is Kite Surfing a Good Workout? Is Kite Surfing Bad for Your Back?

In either case the muscle groups utilized are about the same and are used in varying degrees depending on the intensity level.

The muscle groups used during kite surfing/boarding include:

Abdominals
Lower back
Core muscles
Quadriceps
Hamstrings
Calves

Kite boarding / surfing has several health benefits associated with being physically active and being outdoors on the water, some of which include:

Cardiovascular / heart health
Coordination / balance
Concentration
Decreased stress levels, which in turn can boost immune system health
A sense of community associated with spending time with people with common interests

image of a kite surfing sail in the sky Strong winds can sometimes cause kite surfing injuries

What are Common Kite Surfing Injuries?

Given the unpredictable nature of wind and water it is inevitable that accidents and injuries will occur while kite boarding. In addition, to unexpected changes in the environment, the advancement of equipment sometimes puts less experienced riders in positions they may not be prepared for resulting in accidents involving themselves and sometimes others.

The most common injuries include:

Contusions / bruises
Abrasions
Lacerations
Sprains
Fractures

These injuries often effect one or multiple body parts in a single accident including:

Foot/ankle
Head
Knees
Chest
Wrists
Elbows

Preventing Kite Surfing Injuries

Gratefully there are numerous places that offer kite boarding /surfing lessons which will better prepare individuals newer to the sport. Lessons will not always eliminate the risk of injury, but should decrease risk. In general kite boarding is safe, fun and a great source of recreation and exercise.

Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute

Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute has a team of highly specialized orthopedic doctors and therapists to help you with your injuries. We’ll treat you like a pro! To schedule for physical therapy, please call JOI Rehab at 904-858-7045.

To schedule an appointment with a JOI Orthopedic Specialist, call 904-JOI-2000, schedule online, or click the link below.