Your first eFoil lesson: what to really expect
Is it hard? Am I fit enough? Do I need to be able to surf? What most beginners only find out after their first lesson.
Ask anyone who rides regularly and you’ll often hear the same thing: “I wish I’d started sooner.” According to Fliteboard, the biggest hurdle isn’t learning itself but the doubt before you start. Is it hard? How long does it take? Do I need experience? Here’s an overview, with tips from the Dutch community.
You’ll learn faster than you think
Many beginners are surprised how quickly they can stand up and control the board. High-volume boards are stable, so you can focus on technique. Our FAQ says the same: some people get it within a few hours, others need a few days or weeks.
A good lesson makes all the difference
You can figure it out yourself, but with an instructor it goes much faster. They tell you where to stand and when to give throttle, and they’re right next to you in the water. A bonus in the Netherlands: lesson boards are limited to 20 km/h, so you don’t need a boating licence.
You don’t have to be a surfer
eFoilers come from everywhere: surfers and kiters, but also people who have never stood on a board. Patience and a good lesson matter more than experience.
Tips for your first session
- Start on your knees and build up slowly to standing.
- Choose flat water with little wind.
- Wear a helmet, impact vest and wetsuit.
- Be gentle on the throttle: don’t accelerate or let go too abruptly.
- Don’t sit too far back, or the nose will lift.
Where to book a lesson?
In Valkenburg (near Leiden) you can go to GearFreak Surfschool, the lesson centre of our community partner Flysurf. More schools and lakes under Where can I try it?
Source: Fliteboard