In this instalment of his comprehensive series examining every aspect of wavesailing, Jem Hall helps you to get more laid back with your jumping. Photos: Dave White
Now that you’re all embracing the hands-free moments of joy in your top-turns, I thought I’d go back to some good old jumping this month.
As you will all no doubt agree, windsurfing is a path strewn with unique moments, and these are the freeze frames that we remember best in the future and enjoy most at the time. With this in mind, and with one eye on learning to push loop, I aim to inspire you to once again find comfort in discomfort as I ask you to commit to learning the layback jump.
This move was introduced to me by my good old mate and ex-testing colleague, Ian Leonard, who loved to look right back and check out the view on the beach as he was mid vertical jump. You can also witness the rubbery prowess of pro riders as they arch into some amazing back loops. (Alex Mussolini is a particularly deft exponent of the art.)
The layback jump is a move which, like so many moves, has no real function except that it feels both weird and great. It does however equip you with yet more in-flight control, and also gives you a head-start and view on where your vision goes in a push loop… Which you are all, of course, gagging to learn!
I will revert to my trusted formula for this move:
Who? This move is for sailors wanting to increase their fun quotient, enjoy a unique view and be ready for call of duty in push loop club.
Where? Off small to medium ramps with good space between them, and relatively steep in nature so you get more time to see what’s happening back there.
When? As for all moves, do it when you’re fresh – i.e. in your first hour of sailing after getting a couple of runs through the break under your belt to warm up. Have a session on it of 30 minutes and no more, and do one on every run!
Why? This is another stunt in your arsenal, and it’s a trigger move that will boost your confidence, in-flight technique, orientation, and ready you for push loops.
What? It’s a vertical jump in which you look straight back behind you as you’re going up so you can check out the beach action
How? Just jump, look behind you, and then land. Simples!
