In less than one hour, you can learn how to slalom water ski, without falling and without any expensive lessons. It is not surprising that many people have a tough time trying to water ski, given that they lack proper preparation. By understanding and practicing proper form and technique, you can master the art of water skiing without the stress.

Proper body position is everything in water skiing. You can practice the right form on dry land, so that when you get out on the water your body knows what to do. First, roll your shoulders back and forth, from front to back. Now, roll them back, as far as they will go, and keep them in this back position a” you will feel like your shoulder blades are pinching together. Now, take a deep breath to expand your chest, and arch your back. This is the correct position to have your upper body position in while slalom skiing.

Use a water ski handle during practice or substitute a cane or short broomstick. Now that you’ve achieved correct upper body position, you’re ready to work on your hips. Pull back with your shoulders to put your upper body at an angle of about 45 degrees.

From this position, move your hips upward. Do not pull in your arms or change the position of your shoulders. You will feel the rope pulling from your hips. Check whether your knees are in the right position: your ankles should be slightly behind the front of your knees - picture yourself crouching. Your shins will be angled forward over your feet just a bit.

Keep practicing this position until it’s very comfortable. It’s now time to practice the sitting position, which will give you control while slalom skiing. Assume this position by keeping the handle in front of your knees, holding them together and placing your feet slightly outward, just a bit wider than your hips.

After practicing these postures, you are ready to start slalom skiing on the water. Ask the driver to start at a very slow speed. This slow speed, where the boat is barely moving forward, will allow you to get the feel of the water under the ski and relax into the correct sitting position.

Keep working on this position until you can hold it comfortably, without wavering, for at least 5 seconds. You are now ready to stand up. The driver will speed up to the slowest speed at which standing up is possible. Practice by moving from the sitting to the standing position and vice versa.

Get comfortable sitting, standing and moving on the ski. Once you’re comfortable, you can begin to experiment with movement. For now, stay within the wake of the tow boat. Congratulations! You are slalom water skiing! Carving within the wake requires a little more practice. Start slowly - don’t be too ambitious. Control you form and body position at all times, and you will remain safe and in control.

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