The Most Common Beginner Kitesurf Waterstart Mistakes (and How We Fix Them)

The waterstart is the moment where many beginners feel stuck. You understand the theory, the kite pulls, but the board does not go where you want. This stage is frustrating, but it is also completely normal.

Most beginners do not fail because they lack strength or talent. They fail because of repeating the same waterstart mistakes, often without realising it.

Below are the most common waterstart mistakes we see every week in Dakhla, and how our instructors correct them during lessons.

For a structured learning approach from the start, our kitesurf lessons in Dakhla are built to fix these issues step by step.

Mistake 1: Fighting the Kite#

Many beginners try to control the kite by force. They pull hard, tense their arms and resist the pull.

This blocks smooth power delivery and makes balance harder.

How we fix it
We ask students to relax their arms and let the kite do the work. Control comes from positioning, not strength. Once tension drops, the kite becomes predictable.

Mistake 2: Pulling Too Much on the Bar#

Over-pulling the bar is one of the fastest ways to lose control during a waterstart.

Too much bar pressure stalls the kite and removes lift right when you need it.

How we fix it
We focus on bar sensitivity. Small inputs. Controlled power. Students learn that more pull does not mean more control.

Mistake 3: Not Watching the Kite (The 50–50 Rule)#

At the beginning, beginners do not yet feel where the kite is in the wind window. When they stop looking at it completely, timing breaks down.

How we fix it
We use the 50–50 rule:

• 50 percent attention on the kite
• 50 percent on the board and direction

This visual balance helps beginners coordinate movement until muscle memory develops.

Mistake 4: Rushing the Waterstart#

Many beginners try to stand up too early. They rush the movement before the kite has built enough power.

This leads to sinking, stalling or falling backward.

How we fix it
We slow everything down. First direction, then power, then standing. Timing matters more than speed.

Mistake 5: Poor Body Position#

Two problems appear often:

• Being too stiff
• Leaning too far back

Both reduce balance and board control.

How we fix it
We correct posture in the water before standing. Soft knees, neutral hips, and a relaxed upper body. The goal is balance, not resistance.

Mistake 6: Trying to Go Upwind Too Early#

Upwind riding is important, but not during the first waterstarts.

Trying to edge too early kills speed and stops the board from planing.

How we fix it
We delay upwind focus. First, we build speed and stability. Once the board moves cleanly, edging becomes natural.

Mistake 7: Hanging on the Bar#

Some beginners hang on the bar as if it were a handle.

This causes:

• Fast fatigue
• Locked arms
• Poor kite control

How we fix it
We teach light bar contact and arm relaxation. The kite should be guided, not held.

Mistake 8: Burning Energy Too Fast#

Long attempts without rest drain energy quickly. Fatigue leads to mistakes and frustration.

How we fix it
We pace sessions. Short attempts, controlled breaks, and clear feedback. Energy management is part of progression.

Mistake 9: Moving the Kite All the Time#

Constant kite movement prevents stable power.

Beginners often move the kite because they are unsure, not because it is needed.

How we fix it
We teach when to keep the kite still. Stability creates lift. Movement is only added when necessary.

The Mental Side of Waterstarts#

Waterstarts are not only physical. Mental blocks play a big role.

Common fears include:

• Panic when power builds
• Fear of speed
• Fear of falling

How we fix it
We normalise falls and remove pressure. Calm instructions, clear steps and repetition help students trust the process.

Why These Mistakes Are Easier to Fix in Dakhla#

The learning environment matters.

In the Dakhla lagoon, beginners benefit from:

• Flat water
• Open space
• Clear visibility
• Controlled teaching zones

This makes it easier to focus on technique without external stress. You can learn more about the safest learning areas in our guide to beginner kitesurf spots in the Dakhla lagoon.

Progression is not linear. These mistakes are part of the learning curve, as explained in our overview of kitesurf progression in Dakhla.

Waterstart FAQ#

Why do I keep sinking instead of standing up?#

This usually happens when the kite has not built enough power yet. Rushing to stand before the board has speed causes it to sink. Timing and patience matter more than strength.

Should I pull hard on the bar to waterstart?#

No. Pulling too hard often stalls the kite and removes lift. A controlled power build with light bar pressure is more effective for clean waterstarts.

Where should I look during a waterstart?#

At the beginning, use the 50–50 rule. Keep part of your attention on the kite and part on your board and direction. This helps coordinate timing until you develop a natural feel for the kite.

Is it normal to feel scared during the first waterstarts?#

Yes. Fear of speed or falling is very common at this stage. Calm conditions, repetition and clear coaching help reduce this quickly.

How long does it usually take to master waterstarts?#

For most beginners, consistent waterstarts come after a few sessions. Progress depends on conditions, energy management and how well mistakes are corrected early.

Why do my arms get tired so fast during waterstarts?#

Hanging on the bar and keeping arms tense causes rapid fatigue. Relaxing your grip and guiding the kite instead of holding it reduces effort significantly.

Learn Waterstarts the Right Way#

Waterstart mistakes are normal. What matters is correcting them early and calmly.

With proper guidance, the waterstart becomes a controlled movement instead of a struggle. If you want to accelerate this phase and avoid frustration, structured coaching makes a real difference.

You can plan your sessions directly through our booking page.