Slalom Skiing
Water skiing is a very interesting and popular sport. But don’t you know that water skiing has different types? Types of water skiing vary on difficulty, and on the equipment used. Not all types are suitable for new learners as well.
Generally, the principle of water skiing involves the skier being pulled by the boat in two ways: behind the speedboat, or being along with the drag line. However, it has variations namely slalom skiing, show skiing, ski racing and jump water skiing.
Slalom Skiing
This is the most popular type of water skiing because this could be enjoyed by everyone- beginner or expert. The course in this water skiing discipline is made of 6 fixed buoys. There are two standard buoy colours: red and yellow for the end gates, skier buoys and boat guide buoys respectively. The fixed buoys are situated on each side of the boat guide buoys in an alternate manner. The first skier buoys are located on the right side.
Tournament Slalom Skiing
The concept is similar with slalom skiing, but will be scored according to the buoys cleared successfully.
Show Skiing
This type of skiing is otherwise known as trick water skiing. In this course, the skier will perform tricks like a gymnast while the boat drags them along. Show skiing involves swivelling, jumps, straps, pyramid and several others. This could be done individually or in a group. Usually, skiers here wear sophisticated costumes. Gears that will be used in this type of water skiing discipline is same with slalom skiing. In order to do this type of skiing, the skier should develop good balance. Thus, show skiing is not for beginners.
Ski Racing
This game would compose of a team having two skiers, an observer and a boat driver. As the name suggests, there would be several skiers that will compete and will race around a course.
Jump Water Skiing
Unlike slalom water skiing, this type of water skiing discipline maintains a constant boat speed. Jump water skiing is also known as ski jump. The rule in this game is for the skier to reach the longest distance to win. When the skier reaches a 1.65 to 1.80 m high ramp, he throws himself in the air and will get the highest distance he could. This is not for beginners, but only for experts who want to put their water skiing skills to another level.
