If there is one thing that is holding you back from mastering the forward loop, found this great video by Flo Yung with some great tips and ideas to get yourself rolling forward. Its never to late to learn how to forward!
How to Learn the Windfoil/Windsurf Loop (Flo Yung)
This short tutorial by Flo Yung explains how to learn the windsurfing loop (wave loop) in four practical steps, with emphasis on foundation, preparation, exercises and experimentation. The presenter Flo Yung stresses that the move is more about overcoming fear than complex technique, and gives clear, repeatable guidance.
Key points
1. Foundation: desire and preparation
- You need to truly want to learn the loop — the dedication helps you push through the uncomfortable early attempts.
- Build a solid jumping foundation first: be comfortable with controlled, powered jumps at speed and at a variety of heights.
- Adopt a compact, controlled body position for jumps: sail and board close to your body, knees tucked, balanced stance.
- Create a supportive learning environment: join a wave-loop camp, train with a coach or experienced partner, film attempts, wear protective gear (helmet, ear protection, impact vest) to boost confidence.
2. Develop the basic sensation (practice off the board)
- Do dry or water exercises to understand the rotation and sail behaviour before committing on the board.
- One suggested exercise: “catapult” drills — without the board or while not hooked in, jump and rotate the sail repeatedly (e.g. 20 times) to learn how the sail generates rotation and power.
- Another drill: go downwind and practice sheeting/rotating the sail while in the water start position — this helps you feel timing and the sail’s pull.
3. Key technique for the loop (three-step mental checklist)
Flo condenses the loop into three essential actions to remember during the attempt:
- Wide grip and push the boom forward (to initiate the rotation).
- Jump downwind and keep a compact body position (knees tucked, board close).
- Pull the sheet back while looking over your shoulder to spot the rotation and complete the loop — then aim to land in a water start position.
- Commitment is critical: when you go for a real loop, be fully committed and trust the process.
- A trusted coach or friend to ramp you (and to provide confidence) is helpful for your first committed attempts.
4. Experimentation and correcting common mistakes
- Expect a learning curve — the timing, height, and exact technique require trial and error.
- Common mistakes to watch for:
- Gripping the boom incorrectly (too narrow or tied hands).
- Failing to centre yourself over the sail; letting your body lean or “S” shape the motion.
- Looking forward instead of over the shoulder during rotation.
- Keep revisiting the three-step checklist during attempts: wide grip and boom push → jump downwind compact → sheet back and look over shoulder → land in water start position.
- Don’t be discouraged by initial failures; persistence is key.
Finale / Motivation
- Flo highlights that landing your first loop is one of the best feelings in windsurfing. The move is achievable with dedication, progressive practice, and a safe learning environment.
- He invites feedback and encourages learners to keep practising rather than quitting after early setbacks.
