Must-Read for Beginners! 4 Essential Rules for Safe Motorized Surfboard Operation to Minimize 90% of Risks

Must-Read for Beginners! 4 Essential Rules for Safe Motorized Surfboard Operation to Minimize 90% of Risks
With the rise of water sports, jet surfboards have become an increasingly popular outdoor choice for beginners, thanks to their advantages of "no need to wait for waves" and "low operational barriers." However, as water equipment equipped with a power system, safe operation remains the prerequisite for enjoying the fun. Many novices overlook basic safety rules and encounter issues such as falling into the water, injuries, or equipment malfunctions right from the start. Today, we’ve compiled the four core principles of safe motorized surfboard operation. While our previous article covered how to choose a motorized surfboard, this one will help you avoid most common beginner mistakes and embark on a safe and enjoyable water adventure with ease!

1.Safety First: Never Compromise on Protective Gear

Many beginners, when first trying motorized surfboarding, are often so eager to "get on the water as soon as possible" that they overlook the importance of protective gear. This is the most dangerous misconception for newcomers. During the operation of a motorized surfboard, situations such as acceleration, turning, and unexpected falls can occur. Wearing complete protective gear can significantly reduce the risk of injury.
Essential Protective Gear: Professional Life Jacket
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, wearing a professional life jacket is mandatory for all water sports activities at our club. It is crucial to choose a life jacket that meets water sports standards (such as CE certification) and fits your body properly. A jacket that is too large may compromise safety, while one that is too small can restrict movement and cause discomfort.
Optional but Recommended: Helmet
Once you have moved past the beginner stage and your skills in operating a motorized surfboard have matured, a helmet becomes increasingly essential—especially if you plan to engage in high-speed riding or more advanced maneuvers like sharp turns. With the rising speeds of modern motorized surfboards (some capable of reaching up to 70 km/h), the risk of head impact with the water surface at such speeds can lead to unconsciousness and drowning. Therefore, wearing a helmet during intense riding significantly enhances safety.

Anti-Slip Foot Strap
The foot strap is designed to be secured around the ankle to prevent the motorized surfboard from being swept away by waves or currents after falling into the water. It is particularly useful in open water environments (such as rivers or the sea), while its necessity is relatively lower in calm or slow-moving water areas.

Additional Reminder:
If riding during cold winter seasons, it is essential to wear professional thermal protection gear (such as wetsuits or drysuits) to prevent hypothermia. Before using the motorized surfboard, always inspect your equipment thoroughly—check the life jacket for any damage and ensure the foot strap is securely fastened.

2. Choose the Right Water Area and Stay Away from Hazardous Environments

Jet board places specific demands on the water environment. Operating in unsuitable areas can easily lead to safety incidents. Many beginners mistakenly believe that "anywhere with water is suitable," unaware of the hidden dangers in shallow areas, reef zones, shipping lanes, and similar locations.

Criteria for Suitable Waters:

  1. Water depth of at least 1.5 meters (to avoid damaging the board in shallow areas and prevent injuries from hitting the bottom in case of a fall).

  2. Calm water surface with waves under 1 meter (excessive waves can lead to loss of control, making it difficult for beginners to maneuver).

  3. Stay clear of shipping lanes, fishing boat routes, and swimming areas (to avoid collisions with other vessels or people).

  4. Ensure the absence of hidden reefs, seaweed, debris, or other obstacles (to prevent entanglement or impact hazards).


 3.Master Proper Techniques and Build Skills Step by Step

Whether it's a fuel-powered or electric-powered surfboard, both can achieve rapid acceleration. Many beginners, after mastering the basic skill of standing up, are eager to accelerate or attempt sharp turns, which can easily lead to loss of control and falls due to improper handling. For novice riders, the core focus should be on "stability," not "speed," and it’s essential to practice basic operations step by step.

Basic Operation Guidelines:

  1. Before Starting:

    • Check the battery level and motor status of the surfboard (for fuel-powered boards, check the fuel level and test-start the engine before entering the water).

    • Ensure the control lever buttons are responsive.

  2. During Startup:

    • Gradually push the accelerator to allow the surfboard to start smoothly. Avoid pushing it to the maximum at once, giving your body time to adapt to the speed.

  3. While Riding:

    • When turning, control your speed and lean your body in the direction of the turn to avoid sharp turns that may cause capsizing.

    • In windy or wavy conditions, reduce speed promptly and maintain a stable center of gravity.

  4. When Braking:

    • Anticipate the stopping distance in advance, release the accelerator gradually, and wait until the board comes to a complete stop before dismounting. Avoid sudden braking at high speeds.

Key Practice Drills:
For the first time in the water, beginners are advised to practice in a shallow area (under safe conditions) by focusing on three basic actions: starting, maintaining a steady speed, standing while surfing, and decelerating by releasing the accelerator. Once these are mastered, gradually increase speed and attempt simple turns.


4.Adhere to the principle of safety first.

Whether in public waters or dedicated sports areas, there are corresponding rules for water sports that must be strictly followed by both beginners and experienced riders. This is not only a matter of personal responsibility but also crucial for ensuring the safety of others.

Points to note:

  1. Control your speed: It is recommended that beginners keep their speed below 30 km/h (as motorized surfboards can reach speeds exceeding 60 km/h, which are difficult for novices to handle at high speeds).

  2. Stay away from vessels: Exercise extra caution in open waters and proactively yield to other boats when encountered.

  3. Ride with companions: Beginners should avoid entering the water alone. It is advisable to ride with experienced partners and carry communication devices to seek assistance in case of emergencies.

Summary

For all motorized surfboarding enthusiasts, mastering the safety principles outlined above can help you avoid 90% of common risks. Always remember: the essence of water sports lies in enjoying nature and having fun, and safety is the foundation of it all. As a beginner, don’t rush the process—practice basic skills step by step, familiarize yourself with your equipment, choose suitable environments, and follow the rules. Only then can you truly experience the unique thrill of motorized surfboarding.

If you’d like to learn more beginner tips, such as A Zero-Based Guide to Choosing a Motorized Surfboard or Troubleshooting Common Issues for Beginners, feel free to follow our blog and social media channels. We’ll continue to share more content in the future! You’re also welcome to share your own experiences or questions in the comments below~

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